As men, we are often taught to toughen up, push through the pain, and prioritize our work and responsibilities over our own health and wellbeing. However, as I hit my 30s, I realized that this mindset was not sustainable. I began to feel the effects of neglecting my physical and mental health - from back pain to weight gain to bad skin. It was then that I realized the importance of taking a 360 approach to self-care.
What does a 360 approach to self-care entail? It involves taking care of your body through regular exercise and healthy eating, looking after your skin (especially protecting yourself from harmful rays), and taking care of your mental health. By focusing on all aspects of self-care, you can achieve a better balance in your life, improve your overall health, and ultimately elevate yourself to the next level.
Regular exercise is one of the most important components of self-care. It not only helps you maintain a healthy weight, but it also boosts your mood, improves your sleep, and reduces your risk of chronic diseases. Find a form of exercise that you enjoy and make it a regular part of your routine. Whether it's running, weightlifting, or a team sport, commit to moving your body regularly.
Along with exercise, healthy eating is crucial for maintaining optimal health. A diet rich in whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can provide your body with the nutrients it needs to function at its best. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive alcohol consumption, as they can have negative effects on your health and wellbeing.
Looking after your skin is also an important part of self-care. Protecting yourself from harmful UV rays can prevent skin damage and reduce your risk of skin cancer. Make sure to wear at least SPF 30 every day, even on cloudy days. And, it also significantly reduces your chance of wrinkles. So it is a win-win!
Finally, taking care of your mental health is essential for overall wellbeing. Whether it's through therapy, meditation, or mindfulness practices, find a way to manage stress and prioritize self-care. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and neglecting it can have serious consequences. For me personally, a gummy and some Bob Ross goes along way.
As men, we may feel pressure to prioritize our work and responsibilities over our own health and wellbeing. But taking care of ourselves is not only important, it's the smart thing to do. Neglecting our health can lead to long-term consequences that may hinder our personal and professional growth. By taking a 360 approach to self-care, we can achieve a better balance in our lives, improve our health, and ultimately become the best version of ourselves.
In short, it's time to shed the outdated notion that taking care of ourselves undermines our masculinity. Instead, let's embrace self-care as a way to elevate ourselves to the next level and become the best versions of ourselves.