For a long time the idea of ‘self-care’ did not correlate with traditional concepts of masculinity. As we learn more about the shocking stats surrounding men's mental health, our outlook on what it means to be a modern man has completely shifted placing emphasis on the importance of self-care for me. Self-care may look different from person to person, but self-care is for everyone.
“77% of men polled have suffered with common mental health symptoms like anxiety, stress or depression. 40% of men have never spoken to anyone about their mental health.” Priory Group
With this in mind, let’s take a look at why self-care is important for men.
WHY DO MEN NEED SELF-CARE ROUTINES?
Stereotypes surrounding masculinity have encouraged unhealthy stress relievers such as drinking or burying feelings. These tactics have been found to emphasise conditions such as anxiety and depression, and in some cases result in communicating through aggression or even not communicating at all. Self-care has been perceived as ‘weak’ when, in reality, self-care actually creates a stronger foundation for people to thrive in all areas of their lives.
Here are some of the core reasons why we need to normalise self-care for men…
Self-care reduces stress and anxiety
Have you ever heard someone say ‘I started going to the gym to help my body, now I go to help my mind’? Many forms of self-care help to keep stress and anxiety at bay. By switching off from day-to-day stresses and giving yourself time to do something that increases your happy endorphins, you will find a reduction in overall stress.
Self-care helps improve mental and physical health
Speaking of endorphins, people often find that there is a strong link between their body and mind. When you value your body by giving it the right amount of exercise, nutrients, sleep, sunlight and breath, for example, your mental health will improve too. Likewise, by giving your body unhealthy coping mechanisms such as drinking, unhealthy eating, lack of sleep and lack of exercise, you will find yourself battling with your body and mind.
Self-care makes you resilient
Practising self-care allows you to find a distinction between when makes you more stressed or more relaxed. This, in turns, provides you with the insights and coping mechanisms that you need to become more resilient.
Self-care is found to improve your sex drive
Stress, tiredness, over-exercise and lack of nutrients are all found to reduce your sex drive. This is one of the many ways your body can tell you that your lifestyle balance is off. By giving yourself tactics and routines that bring you joy, rest and balance, you will find this is reflected in your sex drive.
Self-care allows you to help others
Self-care is like a yawn, when you start doing it so will other people. If you can’t carve out the time to do this for yourself, do it to inspire others.
WHAT ARE SOME EXAMPLES OF SELF-CARE?
Self-care is different for everyone and may be found in the most unexpected places. Here are a few of our favourite practices:
- Sleep well
- Nights off alcohol
- Taking the time to cook properly
- Eating a balanced diet
- Reading, listening or learning
- A morning routine
- An evening routine
- A skincare routine
- Breathwork
- Exercise, without over-exercising
- Yoga or stretching
- Movie night
- Magnesium baths
- Walking or running
- Journaling
- Volunteering
- Asking for help
- Going for a pro shave or a haircut
- Trying something new
- Planning an evening out, either by yourself or with someone
Everything we write about comes from a place of self-care. If you have some self-care ideas or tips to share with our community, direct message us on Instagram.
