Although it may seem like the majority of wellness marketing we see today is geared toward females. It is equally important for the male population to pay close attention to their own health and well-being. In fact, some experts claim that their needs to be more attention paid to men’s health than the health of their counterparts. The reasoning behind this statement is based on a few different factors. Men are considered more likely to take bigger risks than woman that may affect their safety. Statistics list accidents or unintentional injuries as the third leading cause of death for men.
Men’s Health
In addition to lifestyle choices, men may be more prone to certain health conditions than their female counterparts. This list includes lung cancer, Parkinson’s disease, and heart disease. Guys – don’t get discouraged. The odds are not completely stacked against you but let this serve as a good reminder that your health is, or at least should be, a top priority. If you are ready to focus more attention on your physical and mental well-being, there are a few lifestyle changes you might consider.
Get Zen
Men can get Zen, too. Contrary to what social media may portray, yoga is not just a woman’s world. The practice of yoga combines movement with mindfulness and breath. This whole-body practice can improve not only your physical health but may also positively impact your mental well-being. Although practitioners in yoga studios across the United States are predominantly female, men are slowly beginning to integrate into the mix. Classes designed specifically for athletes have become a nice complement for men’s health, especially for those males who focus the majority of their exercise on strength training. Yoga is often recommended as a rehabilitation program for individuals healing from injuries – a good option if your extreme lifestyle leads to a forced slow down.
Eat Healthy
Be pro-probiotics. Yogurt and kombucha are not just for your crunchy great aunt Sally. Foods rich in probiotics can be a welcome addition to any man’s diet. These powerful bacteria could help heal your grouchy gut. Consider balancing out the pizza and buffalo wings with some kimchi and kefir. Your gut (and quite possibly your girlfriend) will thank you! If you just can’t get bring yourself to eat probiotic rich foods, there are many supplements available on the market today. Be sure to check with your doctor before adding supplements to your healthcare routine, but this is definitely an option to consider if you are not interested in switching up your diet but curious about the benefits of probiotics.
Routine Maintenance
Don’t skip the preventative care. It’s important to get your oil changed in your car every 3,000 miles. Consider your annual physical, recommended screenings and bi-annual trips to the dentist equally as necessary. Often times, early detection of a medical condition is the best way to ensure it does not get out of hand. Avoid being sidelined from your favorite activities by keeping your engine running smoothly with regular trips to the doctor.
Risky Business
Last but not least – safety first. We get it. The adrenaline rush is real. You can still climb the highest peak, ski the steepest trail, and race the fastest car with proper safety equipment and training. After all, life is way more fun when you’re out there living it. Don’t miss one single moment of the action because you did not set yourself up for success with the right equipment and support to get you there.
Sources:
https://medlineplus.gov/menshealth.html