Let’s tell it like it is: Men don’t always take care of themselves the way they should – and we can prove it. According to a 2011 study, men were more likely to put their health on the backburner and less likely to see a doctor even when they do experience symptoms out of the ordinary. However, you can start putting your health first with some simple self-care tips. Here are five ways you can begin taking better control of your health starting today.
1. Embrace color.
You May Also Like
Fruits and vegetables do more than just add color to your plate.
They bring a whole lot of flavonoids, antioxidants and vitamins to the table – great for your overall health.
RELATED: Men Take Charge – It’s About Your Health
You May Also Like
2. Don’t skip the floss.
No matter how tired you are, never skip the floss.
Not only does it remove bacteria and plaque from your teeth, it also reduces your risk of gum disease and heart disease.
If you don’t know, now you know.
READ: You A’ight, Bro? 4 Reasons Why Black Men Need Therapy RIGHT NOW
3. Get into yoga.
Hear me out before you swear off this ancient practice. Yoga is for all races and certainly all genders.
Sure, some of the poses, such as downward-facing dog and half-moon may seem a little funny at first, but the health benefits will make you
forget all about how silly you feel.
Yoga relieves stress, lowers blood pressure, builds muscle strength, and increases blood flow and flexibility.
RELATED: Ten Health Symptoms Black Men Shouldn’t Ignore
4. Talk it out.
One of the main differences between men and women is that women will talk openly about their problems, whereas men don’t.
I’m not saying you have to pour your heart out, but confiding in one or two close buddies about what’s troubling you from time to time can help reduce stress and slow down the aging process.
And who wouldn’t want that?
Men: Here Are 5 Ways Stress Affects Your Body
5. Have sex – and lots of it.
This one shouldn’t take much convincing, but sex provides stress relief while improving your cardiovascular health and lowering your risk of prostate cancer.
Still not convinced?
According to a 1997 Irish study published in the British Medical Journal, men who had more orgasms lowered their risk of death by 50 percent. Not bad, huh?
For more great articles, click here.
