American writer and teacher Jack Kornfield once imparted some beautiful wisdom. He said, “If your compassion does not include yourself, it is incomplete.” He insisted that we extend the same love and affection to ourselves as we offer others. The men in our world often forget this. They perceive themselves as providers and guardians, a conditioning of a thousand years. They prioritise the wellbeing of others while often neglecting their own. Kornfield’s words remind us that everyone, regardless of gender, need to prioritise self-care to maintain physical, mental and emotional health. Men especially need to know that by nurturing themselves, they can enhance their wellbeing and lead a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Men’s Health Month is celebrated every June to raise awareness about health issues that impact men and urges them to pay attention to their wellbeing. It encourages men to prioritise their health for individual wellbeing as well as for the wellbeing of their families. So, this Men’s Health Month, let’s ask ourselves some important questions and explore if we, as men, understand and indulge in self-care or not.
How high would you rate your mental wellbeing?
Mental wellbeing comes from a state of calm. And that calm is hard to achieve. After all, men face immense pressure to perform well at work, achieve success, provide for their families and ensure financial security. These pressures weigh heavily on them, making their mental health care extremely important.
You can start by acknowledging the fact that you need to cope with everyday challenges just like any other human being. Then, you can learn to manage your daily stresses through relaxation techniques like mindfulness and meditation. Further, seek professional help from yoga or Tai Chi experts to learn the right way to achieve a balance between your mental and physical self.
As American actor and professional wrestler Dwayne Johnson once reflected on his own experience with depression, “I found that with depression, one of the most important things you could realise is that you’re not alone. You’re not the first to go through it; you’re not going to be the last to go through it.” Johnson’s journey highlights the importance of seeking support and further, urges you to stay positive, no matter what. His story stresses on the importance of mental health care and the strength that comes from seeking help and understanding that recovery is possible.
Do you take care of your emotional needs?
A lot of movies and television shows portray men to be extremely macho, as humans who don’t indulge in self care and are strong anyway. But reality is often contrary to that reel image. Men, like everyone else, have emotional needs and deserve care and support. Emotional wellbeing is important for everyone, including men.
Cultivating emotional wellbeing involves nurturing healthy relationships, being able to express feelings openly and finding activities that bring joy. So, learn to build a support network of friends and family and go to them whenever you need support. They are the ones who have your back and advise you right during challenging times. As an actual strong man, it’s important to know you have them and that leaning on them is not a sign of weakness but of strength.
Do you ignore your physical health?
There are several studies that have shown how important physical health is for men’s overall wellbeing. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association stated that staying active could lower the chances of getting heart disease, diabetes and certain types of cancer. It also pointed out how simple activities like brisk walking could improve heart health, lift your mood and even add years to your life. This means, staying physically active could not only help you live longer but also lower your risk of preventable diseases.
So, remember to exercise, take a balanced diet and sleep or rest adequately to take care of your physical health. And understand the fact that exercising is not just a flex or a fad, it actually keeps the body fit, boosts your mood, reduces stress and keeps your mind sharp and happy.
Do you have a work-life balance?
For many men, work is extremely important, and it often blends with the idea of success and identity. But this belief can force them to overwork. The drive to succeed can take over the need for a healthy work-life balance. And this imbalance can result in stress, burnout and strained personal relationships.
Achieving a healthy work-life balance is essential for men to sustain their wellbeing and overall life satisfaction. This happy balance requires you to first set clear boundaries between work and personal life, creating ample time for rest. Taking breaks, pursuing hobbies and spending quality time with loved ones are all essential parts of maintaining this balance.
Do you self-reflect?
Taking time for self-reflection and personal growth isn’t just about achieving goals or learning new skills—it’s about finding fulfillment in everyday life. For many men, making time for self-reflection and growth can be challenging with various duties lined up. However, taking a chunk out for self-reflection daily is crucial for your mental and emotional wellbeing. By calibrating where you stand each day, you learn to grow—whether it’s trying a new hobby, speaking to an old friend or simply taking a walk while reflecting or offering gratitude, can help you recharge. By prioritising self-care and growth, you can find satisfaction and joy in all that you do, personally and professionally.
Do you plan regular trips or breaks to relax?
People who spend time amidst nature while shutting out chaos or distraction, vouch for the happiness they feel for months after. Indeed, taking a trip away is a powerful way to rejuvenate and recharge. Whether it’s a weekend getaway with friends or a family vacation, the key is to prioritise relaxation. By unplugging from daily responsibilities and immersing yourself in a change of scenery, you can reset your mind and body and reduce stress. Taking time to unwind also helps you return to work and daily life feeling refreshed.
So, ask yourselves these important questions and incorporate these aspects of self-care into your daily lives to enjoy health, savour relationships and lead more fulfilling lives. Taking proactive steps towards self-care not only benefits you but also contributes to healthier communities. So, make yourself a priority with these self-care tips and watch your life transform.
FAQs
Why is self-care important for men?
By doing self-care, men can manage stress, improve mental health and reduce the risk of physical illnesses.
What are some practical self-care activities for men?
Practical self-care activities for men include regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, getting adequate sleep and practicing mindfulness or meditation.
What role does self-care play in preventing burnout?
Self-care allows people to recharge and relax, reducing the risk of physical and emotional exhaustion.
How can men integrate self-care into their daily routines?
Men can integrate self-care into their daily routines by scheduling time for activities that promote their health and wellbeing.