Kitty’s Corner
A Big Thanks to Fathers!!
With Father’s Day coming up, Ali and I have been talking about how much pressure men must feel to be tough, to not show their feelings, or to present a masculine ideal.
Unfortunately, the way we socialize men with these societal beliefs actually prohibit healthy behaviors, as well as prohibit men from getting the care they need, according to several scientific studies and medical articles, which include Harvard Medical School’s “Masculinity and Men’s Health.”
As a result, men die younger. They have strokes and heart attacks in significant numbers almost 10 years earlier than women; and sadly, four times as many men than women commit suicide.* And according to “research published by the American Psychological Association, these ‘masculine traits’ have been linked with mental health issues such as depression and substance abuse.” **
Both of us have seen a number of little boys be made to feel ashamed for crying or had their dreams crushed about what they wanted to be because it wasn’t what “men” do. If we love the men and male children, cousins, nephews, friends, and brothers, in our lives, why do we make them feel that they can’t be something other than masculine? Or why can’t being masculine include being creative, gentle, communicative, and kind? Or better yet, why not allow everyone to be who they really are on the inside? It’s worth discussing if we want the males we love to live longer and if we want to see them happier.
Since we often see more women than men come to The Spa, we have to believe that men might consider going to a spa not masculine. However, going to The Spa is about taking care of yourself regardless so that you live longer, healthier lives. Being healthier allows one to feel more energetic, be happier and enjoy more productivity in life.
This month, we’re honoring fathers, and men in general, at The Spa. If you’re stressed, we have several massage options that reduce stress. If you’re feeling anxious or wanting to reach a goal but having difficulty, we have private guided visualization sessions to help. If you’d like to get healthier, we have health coaching and sound therapy sessions. Maybe you’d just like to get the hair taken off your back; our body buff is fantastic for that, and it’s pain free and our special this month.
Maybe you know a man who doesn’t want to admit he needs these things and you want to help him. Consider getting him a gift card at The Spa. Whatever way he gets here, we’ll help him relax and heal.
Much love,
Kitty
