Dads are juggling a lot. Many work long hours, travel frequently, run around to sports and activities, and take care of house duties. High stress, being sedentary at the office, and lack of sleep can all contribute to burn out. To make matters worse, men are programed to be tough and “suck it up”.
The problem is that when men run on empty, just like women, they suffer and the loved ones around them suffer too. Stress is the leading cause of physical and mental disease and well, we love and need the men and dads in our lives to be happy, healthy and present especially for our kiddos. So let’s talk about some simple ways to incorporate some manly self-care.
1. Develop an Exercise Routine
Physical exercise comes in various forms: flexibility, strength and cardiovascular. Exercise increases endorphins which improves mood, lowers symptoms of anxiety and depression, and improve sleep. Pencil in some exercise into your calendar and reap the rewards!
2. Eat Healthy
Eating healthy helps support the adrenal glands, responsible for regulating our body’s stress and the “fight or flight” response as well as the stress hormone cortisol. The nutrients from fruits, vegetables and whole grains also provide our bodies and minds with the energy to tackle our busy schedules.
3. Schedule a Relaxing Monthly Facial, Massage or Body Zen Session
Look good, feel good. In addition to the esthetic benefits you receive from having a facial, you also stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system. While in this state, the body is able to “rest and digest” and repair itself from the negative effects of stress. Not to mention, an hour of quiet with the exception of some ocean waves and crickets sounds quite lovely as a parent.
4. Sweat It Out
Infrared saunas are also a great way to look and feel better. The health benefits include weight-loss, pain relief, relaxation and stress relief, cardiovascular health, anti-aging and detoxification. Take a little time to rejuvenate with a spa treatment and a private infrared sauna session.
5. Gain Support With A Tribe
Our social circles can provide support in many ways. Finding activities that interest you are a great way to connect with like-minded people and build your tribe. A pick-up basketball league, a local gym, a running or hiking club could be some ways that help check a lot of healthy boxes.
Dad's if you are reading, we love you and appreciate all you do for us and our families. You deserve some self-care, relaxation and rejuvenation in return.
Sources
Marc Perry. (n.d.). Fitness For Busy Professionals.
(2018). Support Your Adrenals, Integrative Nutrition.
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