More Than Beards and Beer: A Guide to Self-Care for Men

men should take time for self-care, too

Thomas DeLapp

MANLY MASSAGES? SURE. Self-care can often be viewed as a feminine concept, but why? Anyone can enjoy a good Self-Care Sunday.
MANLY MASSAGES? SURE. Self-care can often be viewed as a feminine concept, but why? Anyone can enjoy a good Self-Care Sunday.

Let’s be honest. Self-care can be hard. Self-care is also often gendered, which doesn’t make much sense. Gender has no consequence on being kind to yourself and your body.

That being said, given that self-care is often gendered as feminine, dudes can feel a little left out. So, here’s a guide for men’s (or anyone’s) self-care.

Most of the time, “manly self-care” advice is about lifting weights and drinking IPAs. That’s all fine and dandy, but self-care is more than that.

Consider what self-care means to you. We can overthink it, but it’s really just making sure your mind and body are healthy, taking some time off stress, and helping yourself feel happy and loved.

First, set aside some time every day dedicated only to you. This will be your time, you can do whatever your heart desires. Disregard everything in this article if you want. Write poetry. Grab one of those trippy geometric coloring books. Sing ABBA loudly in your car.

A good basis for self-care is physical. Exercise is good for everybody, and giving yourself the space to go to the gym, on a run, or just out on a nice walk can be enough.

Of course, there’s nothing like a good shave or haircut to really feel yourself, too. Hop out to one of our fabulous barbershops to get yourself pampered. Massages, manicures, pedicures, and all other spa stuff is just as much for you as it is for anyone else. Own it and have a great time.

Sometimes, the best self-care is just treating yourself to something nice. Skip the Keurig and grab a latte at the coffee shop – you deserve it. That reasonably priced “unnecessary” purchase? Buy it. It’s true that love lasts longer than things, but things are cool, too.

In the end, you know what makes you happy. Do those things every day. Life is too short to be worrying about how to do “self-care” correctly – so have fun, love yourself, and be kind.