Take a Five

“Take out the trash.” “Clean the gutters.” “Mow the lawn.” “Drop the kids off at school.” “Pick up some extra hours at work.” These demands may easily represent a typical workday for a majority of productive men, especially those who are married. While managing these numerous obligations, it's easy to get overwhelmed by the demands of everyday living. Men who assume traditional roles as providers and protectors may feel under greater pressure to make sure the requirements of their household are met, even if women equally confront considerable problems.

This dynamic allows their partners to transform those efforts into a nurturing home environment, but it can also lead to overwhelming pressure. As responsibilities accumulate, the strain can become unmanageable, especially in today’s economic climate.

Interestingly, research by Carol Graham, a Leo Pasvolsky Senior Fellow and Research Director at the Brookings Institution, indicates that while women globally report higher levels of life satisfaction, they also experience more daily stress—except in countries where gender rights are compromised. This highlights a crucial difference in how men and women handle stress. Women tend to express their feelings and release pent-up energy more openly, while men often struggle to do the same.

Given this context, what can men do to navigate these pressures? It might be time to recognize the importance of taking breaks—not as an escape to the wilderness, but as a necessary pause to recharge. We need to initiate open conversations about rest and well-being. Men, repeat after me: IT IS NOT A CRIME FOR ME TO REST!

Rest is essential for mental, physical, and emotional health. According to the Cambridge Dictionary, to rest means “to stop doing a particular activity or stop being active for a period of time in order to relax and regain strength.” This definition emphasizes the significance of taking a step back, although everyone has a different idea of what rest is. Some people find comfort in solitude, while others find energy in socializing with companions. While some people find that exercise rejuvenates them, others would rather be still or sleep. Resting is necessary, no matter how you choose to do it. Proverbs 17:22 says “A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” With that wisdom in mind, ask yourself: When was the last time I laughed? When last did I give a genuine smile?

Self-care is often overlooked, particularly by males who might consider it a luxury as opposed to a need. However, prioritizing self-care is vital for everyone’s well-being. Here are some tips to help you unwind and recharge:

1. Treat Yourself to a Massage or Spa Day - You'll be glad you gave yourself a treat.

2. Hang Out with Friends — Get dressed up and take part in a fun-filled evening of companionship and laughing. It doesn’t have to be expensive, it can just be a chilled get-together.

3. Get Moving - Take up a physical activity that you enjoy, such as walking, jogging, or sports.

4. Home Entertainment - If you're more of an introvert, try watching a movie, playing video games, making art, reading, or even just getting some well-deserved sleep.

   
   

Ultimately, your well-being is in your hands, so take it as seriously. Nurturing your mental, physical, and emotional health is fundamental to living a balanced and fulfilling life.

References

Graham, C. (2020, August 19). Are women happier than men? Do gender rights make a difference? Brookings. https://www.brookings.edu/articles/are-women-happier-than-men-do-gender-rights-make-a-difference/#:~:text=Women%20around%20the%20world%20report,time%20report%20more%20daily%20stress.

Abi Selby, Founder of Spabreaks.com. (2024, May 29). Why real men need to relax. The Hot Tub Blog | Spabreaks.com. https://www.spabreaks.com/blog/why-real-men-need-to-relax

rest. (2024). https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/rest