A lot of the self-care tips and advice out there are directed towards women. However, self-care is also important to men. Modern life is stressful for both genders, and taking some time out for yourself is crucial to success, health, and happiness. Self-care can be especially important to men who find it hard to open up about their problems or talk about their worries. Here are some self-care tips and essentials for men.
Build a Self-Care Kit
Self-care kits are very personal. Some people include things like skincare, Scottish candles, books, and sweet treats for relaxing nights in. Others prefer to practice active hobbies which help them to unwind. Whether your self-care kit is a physical box full of treats and things like a Scottish candle from Hamilton and Morris Candlemakers, or just a list of activities that you know that you can turn to when you need some time for yourself or a way to reduce stress, make sure you have something you can rely on.
Make Time for Yourself
However you choose to practice self-care, making time for yourself is a must. Whether it’s a day off to practice hobbies or do things you enjoy, or ten minutes reading a book or playing a game, it’s important. Try to make a little time for yourself every single day, especially when you are busy and stressed out.
Spend Time with Friends
There have been several reports recently about men not having friends, or at least not making time to see their friends. This can be especially true of men in middle age, who are busy with work and family. Friendships are an important part of self-care. They boost your mood and give you people to talk to; you never know when you’ll need them. Try to make time for your friendships, even if it’s only occasionally.
Practice Kindness
Self-care isn’t all about doing things for yourself. Actually, one of the most powerful acts of self-care is more about how you treat others. Practicing kindness generally and helping people around you will boost your mood and confidence and help you to feel great.
Take Care of Your Skin
Men’s skincare is a bigger industry than it has ever been before, with more men taking the time to cleanse and moisturise. It’s a small thing, but it’s still an active form of self-care and self-love that you deserve.
Prioritise Your Mental Health
Self-care is great for your mental health, but it won’t always be enough. One of the greatest acts of care is knowing when there’s a problem that needs addressing. Get to know yourself and your normal so you know when things don’t feel right, and don’t make the mistake of thinking things will always get better. Speak to friends and spend time doing things that you enjoy, but if you are worried, don’t hesitate to see your doctor.
Find Passion
Passion makes us feel alive, and having hobbies and interests you feel passionate about can bring purpose and enjoyment to your life.
Self-care comes in all different shapes and sizes. Often, the best thing to do is to be open to different ideas. For example, even the most adventurous people, who would say that they find adrenaline-boosting activities the most relaxing, might occasionally need a long soak in the bath with a candle and a good book.
