ART OF BEAUTY | SELF-CARE ISN'T JUST FOR

ART OF BEAUTY

Self-CareIsn't Just For Women

If you’re like most men, you don’t take care of yourself as you should. According to research published in the Journal of Health Psychology, men are three times more likely than women to ignore their health needs, and this neglect can lead to long-term problems like hypertension and diabetes. We have to take care of ourselves.

Self-Care is actively directing your time and focus on yourself. This could be daily, weekly, we all need to create time where stressors are put on the back burner.

This can help with mental health which is something we all need since the past year has brought uncertainty, seclusion, and loss for many. Recently, one in three adults in the United States reported symptoms of anxiety or depression since the start of the pandemic in 2020.

This means that it is even more important to make the practice of self-care a priority.

Self-Care for Men

Yes, men, we know that self-care has mainly been marketed to women in the past, but as we mentioned above, self-care is to help improve the mental, emotional and physical health of a person. Male and female alike.

Self-care can include anything that helps you stay physically and mentally well, even during stressful times.

What does self-care look like for a man? We’re glad you asked!

We can take this in baby steps and gradually build a regimen that benefits individual situations and lives. Some items we had in mind are:

Get Moving – starting a workout/exercise regime causes the body to release endorphins that trigger a “feel-good” sensation which is similar to those of morphine. These activities do not all have to be gym-related, it can be as simple as getting out of the house for a walk around the neighborhood. The fresh air and vitamin d from the sun along with the sounds of nature are healing.

Recite Affirmations – We’ve all heard about the power of the tongue and the words we speak. Affirmations are positive statements that you speak out loud that will help battle negative thoughts and help reprogram your thinking patterns. This allows the laws of attraction to bring positive people and situations our way. Affirmations are individual to the person reciting them, you know your dreams and desires, speak them into existence and line your thinking up with it. This also goes along with

meditation on those positive healing thoughts.

Start Journaling – Journaling helps the brain to search for positive things instead of focusing on the negative. Journaling regularly over time will re-wire your brain in a way that will benefit every area of your life. Journaling also allows for introspect, gives space to write down goals, track progress, and keep yourself accountable.

Take Your Vitamins - Add supplements like CBD or Adaptogens like ASHWAGANDHA which are plant extracts that aid in relaxation and stress relief. Additionally, other supplements assist with testosterone levels, cholesterol levels, and the maintaining of a

healthy weight.

Moisturize and Pamper – Add facial and body moisturizing to your nightly routine. Get a good night time routine going, with essential oils, sounds, and chamomile tea after a great bath/shower will have you ready to catch those z’s. Sleep is the most important aspect of self/care. Good sleep will help you “charge” your brain and body so that you can feel refreshed, maintain a healthy weight, improve energy, improve productivity, and help you look well-rested and younger. If you find you’re having trouble falling to sleep or staying asleep due to racing thoughts look at your external environment and make sure that it is peaceful for optimal sleep. Reading a good book before bed can also help quiet your mind and relax you. And this goes without saying, shut off all distractions and put an hour into yourself. That means no TV, phones, or social media.

Step up regular Upkeep - Get a facial, haircut/lining, manicure, and pedicure regularly- it can be as regular as once a month (some can be done yourself at home). Don't just look good, be well overall... Treat yourself, you deserve it!

Dec. 9, 2021 at 7:30 pm The Fabulous Fox 527 NORTH GRAND BLVD. ST. LOUIS MO 63103