Seed Co-Founder & Yoga Teacher, Kate Kirrane, explores the growing world of men’s health this Movember & discusses why it’s so important that all men focus on their four pillars of health!
Here at Seed we are passionate about supporting men in their quest to be healthier and happier. And with Movember upon us, we wanted to dedicate this week to all things men’s health whilst highlighting the work of this amazing charity.
I distinctly remember the moment I first learnt about the charity Movember a few years ago. As I sat talking to my husband over dinner, it dawned on me that he was sporting a full-blown moustache. While silently berating myself for not noticing sooner (I mean, how could I have missed it?!?), he explained what was behind his new look.
For those who don’t know, growing a moustache has become a symbol of support for what is now the leading charity for men’s health. Its aim is to shine a much-needed light on the biggest health threats men face such as heart disease, prostate cancer, mental health and more.
And now, the month of November is a permanent fixture in the annual calendar for men’s health awareness, with people nationwide getting behind the Movember initiative and raising funds for this novel cause.
The changing face of men’s health
The good news is that current stats show record numbers of men are reaching out for both physical and mental health support. Seed’s teachers and practitioners are amongst many experts in the world of wellness reporting a steady increase of male clients attending their classes and clinics.
Said Seed’s Psychotherapist, Deb Milligan, “Traditionally, where my clinic was majority female, today it is a 50-50 split. I think the growing awareness of men’s mental health over the past few years has really helped to eliminate the stigma. Although there is still more work to be done to break down the barriers, there has been great progress.”
Colonic Hydrotherapist, Debbie Dean, said she now often sees more men than women in her clinic. Said Debbie, “This reflects there has been a seismic shift out there in the mindsets of men. They are more interested in looking after themselves and taking responsibility for their own health and wellbeing. It’s fantastic to see.”
My men-only yoga class has also reflected the rising interest from men in their own self-care. When I first set up the class two years ago, I had no idea how it would go. But slowly more men came along, some looking to relieve stress or aid specific health ailments such as back pain while others simply wanted to try yoga (sometimes for years!!) but felt uncomfortable joining a regular class.
The class is continuing to thrive, with men of all shapes and sizes, ages and abilities coming to the mat to unlock their bodies, relax their minds and reap the many other benefits of yoga that women have been enjoying for years.
Why the focus on men’s health specifically?
It’s a fact that there is gender inequality in health. Men are more likely to die younger than women (one in five men die before the age of 65 – that’s 20% of men who won’t reach retirement age). Why? Because they are at higher risk of serious health issues such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, certain types of cancer such as prostate and testicular, and mental health issues such as depression and suicide.
Why is the risk greater for men?
Research shows that men are less healthy than women, with more likelihood to smoke, drink alcohol to excess and be overweight or obese. Men are also less likely to visit a healthcare professional or GP, putting off a health check until their symptoms can no longer be ignored.
Further studies show that men who suffer frequent bouts of depression are 40% more likely to develop heart disease.
The reality is that men who have unhealthy lifestyles are more at risk of illness and disease. So, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is the biggest single thing they can do to help reduce this risk. This includes eating healthily, taking regular exercise, relieving stress and addressing poor mental health.
If you looking for some guidance and wish to discuss your own personal health status and goals, we offer a FREE 15-minute phone consultation to understand your specific needs, provide information and advice an, if required, direct you towards an appropriate practitioner. For more information, please email us at info@seedwellness.co.uk.
- Men-Only Yoga
- to combat stress and build all-body strength, flexibility & balance
- Men-Only Pilates
- to promote a strong core and all-over body strength
- Counselling
- to talk in a non-judgemental space
- Psychotherapy & Psychology
- to address / treat depression & anxiety
- Herbal Medicine
- for men’s health & sexual health
- Colonic Hydrotherapy
- for improved digestion and vitality
- Homeopathy
- for common men’s health ailments
- Nutritional Therapy & Heath Supplements
- For men wishing to learn more about the best foods and supplements for them
GROW A MOUSTACHE FOR MOVEMBER!!
If you wish to grow a moustache to raise funds or simply make a donation to Movember, please click on the link as follows – https://uk.movember.com
