Do you have men in your life who are dear to you?
Or are you a man yourself?
Then you need to know this: Men are allowed to cry. More than once in a while. As much as they felt like crying, is the rule.
Society taught us wrong.
As a result of this false dictate, men are less likely to seek help for mental health issues. Suicide rates among men are higher than in women.
We live in a world where men have learned to bottle up their emotions and ignore their mental health. It is a cause of concern, also if you are one of these men or know such men, then it is time to change gears.
Simply because you deserve better.
Here are a few practices for the mental well-being of that sacrificial breed of men brainwashed into thinking crying is a sin.
Breathe & Meditate
Numerous studies show meditation reduces stress and helps one become more mindful of their thoughts. Here are a few testimonials of men from different professions testifying the impact of meditation on their mental well-being.
‘Clarity in thought & softness in emotions’
Earlier I was not aware of my thoughts. Good moments meant happiness and anything untoward made me feel anxious. After meditating regularly, I have become more aware of my thoughts. It has helped me make clear decisions and to process things better. And this has helped me manage my emotions as well. I enjoy things better without getting overexcited and unfavorable things don't bring me down.
This combination of clarity and calmness has helped me process my emotions better. I now show them to my family and friends in a better way, a more sustainable way.
Many people stay away from spirituality or meditation because of the suspicion that it will take away their edge or desire to succeed.
That pursuit often makes people harsh, ruins their work-life balance. It leaves people with a successful career but, lack of emotions and relationships. Meditation for me has been a tool that has softened my sentiments and has sharpened my behavior, giving me the best of both worlds.
- Sooraj, Novelist
‘Letting go is now easy’
After practicing Sudarshan Kriya (a breathing technique proven to reduce stress and anxiety significantly) my self-attested tag of ‘Angry Man’ has just melted like butter. Now I am a good listener. I make better decisions and don't worry about their outcome. Automatically some answers pop into my mind to solve problems after meditation.
- S.K.Soni, Ex-Senior Section Engineer, Railways, Ambala Cantt
Join a Free workshop on Yoga, Meditation and Breath
Be kind to yourself
Studies show the empowering impact of self-compassion. A 2011 study shows that self-compassion decreases psychological distress after a marital separation. So let go of the habit of self-criticism and instead, be kind and gentle to yourself.
Compete with yourself
So often, comparing our own lives with others becomes a source of distress. We forget that all of us are on our unique journeys. The correct measure of your growth is a comparison with your past self. Measure your present achievements and abilities with those a year ago. Resolve to strengthen yourself to be able to achieve your goals instead of looking at others' accomplishments.
Embrace your thoughts
The more you avoid or resist your thoughts and emotions, the more they affect you. As per Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, “When you embrace your thoughts, they will stop affecting you.” In other words, have complete acceptance of whatever is running in your mind. Look at them the way you look at the traffic passing by.
Be a part of a prosperous community
Build a community where you can talk about your inner struggles and also make happy memories. A good community can uplift you.
Feel free to call The Art of Living’s Anti-Anxiety Helpline when you need support: 080-676-12338
