Why is it that self-care is often only spoken about in relation to women?
The truth is, amid the hustle and bustle of everyday life, we could all use a touch of mindfulness. That certainly doesn’t change dependent on gender!
Thanks to a pretty awful mix of socialisation as the “stronger” sex, alongside the growing stresses of the modern world, it’s no wonder that male mental health is suffering. Countless studies have shown that men in the UK and beyond are struggling, but that they are far less likely than women to seek psychological support and far more likely to opt for harmful coping strategies such as drugs and alcohol use (mentalhealth.org).
As our way to add to the hugely important conversations that are happening for Men’s Mental Health Week, we wanted to share our tips for men and how you can incorporate simple self-care practices into your day-to-day to improve mental health
Form a “check-in” habit
It’s been found that a huge 40% of men won’t talk about their mental health (Priory Group). Whilst building a supportive social circle or investing in a type of therapy could have huge benefits for you, simply being aware of how you’re feeling is a big step.
As a daily act of self-care, start asking yourself “how do I feel today?”. Taking the time to check-in on your mental state allows you to instantly add a touch of mindfulness to your day and will help you to begin processing your emotions.
In Atomic Habits, James Clear outlines the importance of triggers when it comes to forming any habit. These are the actions that will prompt you to do the new habit that you are trying to make a part of your daily routine.
Use the power of habit triggers by finding something that you do every single day and attaching a mental check-in to it. For example, every time you boil the kettle to make your morning coffee, assess how you are feeling.
Exercise… Preferably outside!
We all know that exercise is great for our mental health, right?
As Help Guide outline, getting active actually leads to positive changes in the brain such as neural growth and reduced inflammation. That’s alongside releasing endorphins, aka the happiness hormone! Finally, the act of moving your body can be a much-needed distraction to break negative thought patterns.
By committing to some form of exercise – be it a walk down the road or a full-on weights session – you are also committing to self-care for your brain.
To boost the mental health benefits of exercise, get outside while you do it! It’s been proven that time in nature significantly reduces cortisol, the stress hormone.
Create a positive work environment
If you’re spending 8 hours a day in your office or at your desk, it’s absolutely crucial to create a pleasant environment for yourself.
We recommend trying to make changes that will positively impact all five of your senses.
See: Fill your space with pictures of loved ones or artwork that makes you happy. Ensure that your desk is clear and not visually overwhelming. Allow as much light into your room as possible, which has been shown to lower levels of agitation and stress.
Hear: Pick a playlist or podcast that brings you joy! And if office chatter adds to your stress levels and lowers productivity, get your headphones at the ready.
Smell: Our Clarity Room Mist is the perfect way to set you up for a joyful and productive workday. Formulated with invigorating grapefruit, basil and bergamot, this masculine fragrance is a desk essential. Our use of its psychological benefits is based on the scientific observations of aromachology, meaning it is an absolute saviour when it comes to clearing the mind.
Taste: Make sure to indulge in a hot drink or snack that makes you happy in the mornings. Did somebody say “coffee”?
Touch: Put your comfort first by investing in a laptop stand, a supportive desk chair and maybe even a foot hammock.
Don’t be tempted by late-night emails
Whilst being on screens is somewhat unavoidable for most of us these days, it’s important to set boundaries for when you use technology. Try to have a strict time when you step away from your phone in the evening.
Not only will this help to give you a firm break from the mental stimulation of work, but it can also improve your quality of sleep. The blue light from technology throws off the body’s circadian rhythm and lack of sleep can have negative impacts on mental health. So, by avoiding your phone for a few hours before sleep, you are looking after your brain!
Use the power of aromachology
Scent is a brilliant tool when it comes to improving your mental state.
Each and every one of our hand-poured candles is crafted with high-quality essential oils. Based on the scientific evidence of aromachology, we create scent blends that have a real impact on your mental state, as well as offering up the perfect opportunity for a moment of self-care.
To help you gain perspective and realign, opt for our Renew Mood Range. This luxurious edit of four scents gives you everything you need to gain clarity and energy through the power of aromachology. Our Healing Candle is particularly powerful for showing yourself grace after a difficult day, formulated with a soothing blend of lemongrass, lavender, peppermint and mandarin.
Whether you decide to fit one or all of these practices into your daily routine, we hope that you are able to find the calm and clarity that you so deserve.
For digital reminders and tips on all things self-care, make sure you’re following Halcyon Naturals on Instagram.