It’s highly likely that the phrase ‘self care’ has popped up in conversation once or twice in recent times. Thanks to the importance we now place on our mental health, it is no longer considered a luxury, but more of a necessity. Taking time to focus on our wellbeing, whether that’s mental, emotional or physical health, is something that allows us to bring balance to our lives. This, in turn, gives us the clarity and strength required to manage our daily responsibilities, such as work, family and the general minutiae of day to day living.
Self care takes many forms, and it’s important that you find something that helps you. Nothing is written in stone, it’s not a ‘one size fits all’ affair. For some, self care comes from practising meditation, yoga and mindfulness. For others, it’s a rigorous workout at the gym. If it’s reading, listening to music or simply taking more of an interest in your appearance that gives you the downtime you need and it works for you, it counts. The whole purpose of practising self care is to help reduce anxiety and stresses in our lives; to ward off depression and help us to function to the best of our ability in an ever demanding world.
In the past, we have been known to associate self care rituals with the female of the species. Spa days, manicures, massages and facials were seen as more feminine pastimes, and the men were expected to find their rest and recuperation elsewhere. Things have changed dramatically over the last few years, and women and men alike are taking it upon themselves to spend time and money taking care of their bodies and minds in equal measure. Self care has been accepted as a necessary part of life, enabling us to be and feel the very best we can. Life is busy, and if spending time on ourselves makes the day more productive and less stressful, then why wouldn’t we embrace it?
Male grooming
One of the health and beauty sectors that has seen a rise in popularity over the last few years is that of male grooming. A quick look at the well stocked shelves, aimed at men, in stores across the country will remind you just how important men take the grooming process. This aspect of self care has become the norm. Moisturisers, teeth whitening products, even cosmetic surgeries, are what many men are choosing to spend their money on. Electronics, sports and travel still take the top spots of disposable income spending, but male grooming is catching up.
Whilst many men still handle their facial hair grooming from the comfort of their own homes, there has been a rise in these treatments being carried out at salons and barbers. Manicures are also much more common amongst men, and why not? If it helps boost confidence and adds to their self esteem, it’s a good thing.
Hair styling
Over the decades we’ve seen hair styles, lengths and colours come and go. From the mullet to the mohawk, self care meets self expression, and often an entire personality can be tied up (no pun intended) in a hairstyle. In recent times, the male bun has been eclipsed by the even more recent buzz cut. Perhaps these came about due to lockdown, when the options of ‘do it yourself’ hair were limited to either growing it long or shaving it off altogether. Whatever the reason, men are certainly visiting salons more frequently, in order to maintain a groomed and polished appearance. Healthy hair and a tidy, manageable style are as important to men as they are to women. A certain inner strength (think Samson and Delilah), and self confidence, has been derived from a man’s healthy head of hair. So, if taking an interest in looking after it is part of a self care routine, it’s a perfectly good way to spend your time and money.
Hair loss
But what happens if your hair is no longer the crowning glory it once was. If your hair has always been a source of self esteem, what happens if it starts to thin or fall out completely? Many men feel more youthful and attractive with a full head of hair, despite the fact that a lot of people find the bald look more attractive. This has led to an increase in the amount of men seeking to restore their hair through hair transplants and similar procedures.
In recent times, we’ve seen a lengthy list of celebrities and the like jetting off to Turkey, only to return a week later with a completely new hairline. Hair transplants are big business abroad, and many men combine their procedure with a week in the sun too. Whilst this might sound like a great idea, following a hair transplant, the sun beating down on your sensitive scalp is the last thing you need if you want to make a quick recovery.
It’s this upturn in the amount of men seeking hair restoration treatments that has led to an increase in Hair Transplant Clinics being established in the UK. Why would you travel to Turkey to get work done when you can get a Hair Transplant in Birmingham. One of the most prestigious and affordable UK clinics is Enhance Hair Restoration. They have facilities around the UK, which makes them accessible to everyone. The benefits of getting the procedure carried out closer to home, mean that choosing the UK is a more sensible option. The pre and post operative appointments are vital, and if the clinic is abroad, this makes it difficult. Being closer to the clinic where you have your procedure means you can attend at short notice, should the need arise. Whilst the idea of combining a holiday with a hair transplant may sound appealing, the fact remains that you will be recovering from a surgical procedure, and that is hardly a relaxing pass time.
There are so many ways to get your self care fix, you just need to find what suits your lifestyle best. For some it’s a regular exercise regime. For others it might be meditation and mindfulness. If your self worth is tied up in your image, then upkeep and maintenance is an important part of your self care routine. Getting your hair restyled, or getting a hair transplant, could be the perfect way to give yourself a confidence boost. If that is the case, Enhance Hair Restoration would be a great place to start.
