They say that most men die of stubbornness. Lightheartedly, we find this sentiment to be true. Guys are reluctant to get a colonoscopy, visit the doctor, or ask for help. Living in pain and discomfort is the norm for many men who've been conditioned since childhood to remain strong, tough and resilient when faced with challenges.
While these qualities may contribute to a healthy modern man, too much machismo can be toxic. Modern society has placed so much pressure on being masculine that it's commonplace for men to just "suck it up" when a little pressure turns into pain. This constant state of stress can lead to very serious health issues.
Thankfully, life doesn’t have to be so hard all the time. Therapeutic practices like massages, yoga & meditation are scientifically sound methods to greatly relieve stress and positively impact health in both men and women alike. The challenge for men’s health however, isn’t the lack of solutions but rather the willingness to receive such therapy as they are often seen as too soft, weak, or feminine. While men make up nearly half the population, a disproportionate amount of women receive massages more regularly than men due to this stigma.
Too often, we see reluctant men waiting to get massages gifted to them by their loved ones. “I don’t know what I’m doing here”, we hear them say right before they get on the table. But by the end of the service, they’ve completely changed their tune to “Why have I not done this before?” or “I should do this more often!”
The realization that men’s bodies enjoy the same therapeutic benefits from massages as women is one that often comes too late. It usually takes an injury or unbearable pain that creates enough urgency for men to see a therapist.
The truth is, everybody holds trauma in their bodies.
The human body is an energetic battery and if we’re not taking the steps to properly recharge and release energy, we’re doing our bodies a disservice. Chronic stress and even trapped emotions can manifest itself as body aches, muscle tension, or even illness. We fall victim to the slippery slope of poor health and dis-ease when we fail to take care of our bodies.
Overcoming the stigma of pampering oneself is a challenge that’s often difficult to overcome alone. It usually takes a friend or family member to introduce self-care practices to the un-pampered man. At Truth, we see many men have their first massage experience purchased as a gift. Perhaps a gift certificate is all it takes to change a man’s perspective to self-care.
At Truth, we encourage you to look after the men in our lives who deserve a bit more for themselves by purchasing them a massage and or facial. You’ll never know how much they’ll appreciate it.
Self-care is not girly. There is no gender barrier to pampering oneself. It is an essential component to taking care of yourself and if you’re not utilizing the tools and services available, you’re doing yourself a disservice. The notion that massages are for girls is an expression of toxic masculinity.
Some men like it rough. Deep-tissue massages are most popular among men and athletes. Like men, the technique is to get right to the core of the matter - muscle aches and knots. Making sure to let your therapist know the right pressure to apply is the key to an effective massage which requires a bit of listening to the body.
Guys like presents too. Don’t wait until Father’s Day or Christmas to buy your favorite guy a gift. When it comes to taking care of oneself, there is never a bad time. Gift-certificates, skin care products, essential oils, and candles are not off the list. Who doesn’t like a present, especially when it's unexpected?
