As a busy man, you’re no stranger to juggling. You’ve got one eye on the fluctuating crypto market and the other on your daughter’s recital. There’s a clogged storm drain calling your name, interrupting your boss’s request for you to be “flexible” on a last-minute project. And even though you’re trying your best to help your mom resolve a spat with her neighbors, you’re still thinking about what Antoni said about guacamole on the episode of Queer Eye you watched last night.
There’s no pause button for the emotional, physical, and mental strains inflicted by a hectic schedule. But that doesn’t mean you can’t control the chaos.
The World Health Organization defines self-care as someone’s ability to maintain health, cope with illness, and rehabilitate. Brass tacks: it’s any strategy or process that leads to emotional, physical, mental, social, and spiritual well-being. Looking to boost happiness and lower your stress levels? Self-care is the answer.
Most men find this daunting. They tend to avoid doctors and struggle to disclose important health information. Men are also less likely to seek help for mental health difficulties. Even conversations about male skincare are still in their infancy.
For too long, men have been comfortable with discomfort. We want to change that.
Whether researching men’s breathable underwear or monitoring health apps, you can’t afford to not practice men’s self-care. Instead of deciding “not bad” is “good enough,” it’s time to figure out what you can do to be healthy and happy.
Physical self-care: Make time for movement, meals, and medical advice.
Self-care starts with the body. It’s the only one you’ll ever have (unless you believe in reincarnation – in which case, never mind) and it deserves attention. As you build your best life, take the following recommendations into account.
Activity.
If you don’t move it, you lose it. The CDC says physical activity can boost brain health, prevent disease, and improve the ability to do everyday tasks. When it comes to getting your sweat on, remember that moderate movement is as valuable as an intense workout when it comes to self-care. Don’t be afraid to put on a podcast, your most comfortable underwear for exercise, your go-to sweats, and your cushiest runners, and walk it out.
Diet.
It can be easy to see a trendy diet as a shortcut to well-being, but self-care doesn’t need to be complex – most times, simple recipes based on whole foods are best. Avoid junking up your system by setting aside time to prepare healthy meals that delight your palate. It’s hard to convince yourself that leafy greens taste better than the massive burger at your local pub – but we all know how that ends. Ensure your meals work for you, not against you.
Health.
Scheduling a yearly checkup with a doctor is a great way to ensure the investments you’ve made in your health are performing as expected. The same advice applies to your balls. Pair your monthly self-checks with regular testicular exams to detect any changes. And while you’re at it, repay your crown jewels for the repeated medical intrusions by buying a really nice pair of men’s underwear.
Mental self-care: Find balance and dismantle stress.
To achieve true wellness, men need to balance activity with rest. Find your zen with these peace-promoting self-care essentials.
Sleep.
Wondering why you’re feeling sluggish? Did it take way too long to catch the simple pun your buddy was making? Maybe it’s time to take an in-depth look at your sleep practices. Good sleep hygiene includes decreasing screen time before bed, moderating alcohol intake, and tracking sleep schedules with apps. You’re most likely not passing out every night right after getting intimate (if you are, nice!), so don’t overlook your nightly uniform: comfortable underwear and sleepwear are key to replenishing Zs.
Stress management.
In any full life, stress is unavoidable. While you can’t eliminate day-to-day responsibilities, you can form habits to lessen their impact on your well-being. Defuse the strain by trying meditation, journaling, and spending time outdoors. Ensure your activities in nature include the right gear, starting with supportive footwear; breathable, comfortable underwear; and weather appropriate clothes.
Skincare.
A lot of guys are more than happy to embrace laugh lines and crow’s feet, or ignore what’s on the underside of their beards. But skincare isn’t just about keeping your face smooth forever – it can be a doorway to improved mental health. Regular skincare routines establish stability and release positive neurotransmitters. So what are you waiting for? Grab a mask, slather on some moisturizer, and breathe in those essential oils.
Social self-care: Connect with others and yourself.
Humans are social creatures – we need each other to survive. Grow your community and sense of self-worth by making time to hang out with others.
Connection.
While outdated social norms try to convince you that every man is an island, men’s self-care includes a focus on relationship building. Your self-sufficiency isn’t compromised when you reach out to friends, host a game night, date, or join a club or activity group. Regularly checking in with family members and booking one-on-one time with someone you love is a good first step to getting out of your head and into the world.
Presentation.
You’ve heard that clothing makes the man. And it’s true – pride in your wardrobe can translate into an increase in self-esteem. Even investing in a few staples can make a world of difference to your mood. Don’t be afraid to be practical: a fresh set of briefs is an invisible but essential courage-booster. There’s evidence that nice underwear can be good for women’s mental health, and the same applies to men. Comfortable underwear can set the foundation for happiness, confidence, and feeling put together and present.
The pressures and expectations in a man’s life are always going to shift in intensity and duration, but there’s one constant in the controlled chaos: you. Bring out your best self with practices that reinforce your values and connect you to your community.
It’s a complex world, but sometimes a life can be changed by something as simple as buying better men’s underwear. Find your perfect pair by taking our underwear quiz.