5 ways to help the men in your life get into wellness

ACCORDING to research conducted by the health and wellness booking app, MINDBODY, one in three UK men that join the gym do so to build muscle, but continue to attend to help their mental health.

The link between exercise and better mental wellness is clear, however, over a third (35%) of men struggling with their mental wellness admit to waiting two or more years before disclosing a problem to a friend or family member, suggesting there is still a belief they should manage it alone.

In light of the research, MINDBODY reveals five ways you can support the men around you get into wellness, to benefit both physical and mental health.

1. Attend a yoga class together

Yoga is known for its ability to ease stress and promote relaxation. Working on your breathing techniques is an essential part of every yoga practice and these methods can help you stay calm and think clearer in certain situations. There are many different styles of yoga, such as Hatha and Vinyasa, some more strenuous than others. Before attending a class, contact the studio for advice on which class type they recommend you attend with your loved one, based on their needs and requirements.

Expressing how yoga played a pivotal role in his mental and physical wellbeing, Stephen Marks, founder of Stephen Marks Yoga, says: "Yoga found me in my mid-twenties as a form of rehabilitation for back and knee injuries. I had no idea then it would take over my life! For me movement is vital and so important."

2. Head outdoors

Over a third (37%) of men say their preferred method of exercise is running, and over half (54%) also say they are more motivated to exercise when they have a 'buddy'. Going for a run, jog, or walk outdoors not only helps you to stay fit, but it also increases your energy and helps to clear your head. So, if a loved one isn't having the best of days, a walk around the block together or a jog around the local park could be just what is needed.

3. Meditate

A study led by Harvard University found that as little as eight weeks of meditation helped people experience decreased anxiety and improved stress regulation. Not only this, working together to learn the basics of meditation will mean dedicating valuable time to just being together, which can have a knock-on positive impact on your relationship. Many apps and online programs have helped bring meditation into the mainstream; technology like Muse and apps such as Headspace guide users and can be a practical way into meditation. There are even boutique studios dedicated to meditation now, such as Re:Mind in London, which focuses on breathwork and bringing calm to Londoners – all classes are bookable on the MINDBODY app.

4. Pick up the weights

Not only does weight training increase your physical strength, but it also increases your mental strength, too. According to MINDBODY research, almost a third (30%) of men say working out with someone else makes them try harder. So, why not organise a gym session, and focus on your physical and mental strength, together? There are many exercises you can do together with weights such as squats, lunges, chest presses and curls. But, whatever exercise you choose to do, be sure to push one another as this will give you the biggest self-esteem boost.

5. Attend a spin class

It's no secret that spinning is one of the more 'intense' types of exercise/fitness options, however, it has multiple benefits, especially for your mental wellbeing. Yes, the class will be hard, and yes, you'll sweat (a lot!), however, you'll leave the class feeling much happier thanks to the endorphins your body will produce whilst taking part which will help trigger the "happier" feelings. If either of you are new to spin, get to the class a little earlier and speak with the teacher who will talk you through everything you need to know about the class.

A spokesperson from MINDBODY comments: "If a loved one is suffering with their mental wellbeing, it's normal to feel like you don't know what to do or say, especially if they haven't yet vocalised how they're feeling. However, as we've outlined, there are many ways you can show them you care and push them to do things proven to help. Just being there for someone and doing little things, often, can be really valuable."

* You can download the app here or search for 'MINDBODY' in the app stores.

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