Written by:
SARAH DUTT, LMT
Sarah can be reached at sarah@apexptwellness.com
Movember, its more than well groomed facial hair
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention reported men are more than 3 times more likely to die by suicide than women in 2019. We have this stigma that men shouldn’t show their emotions or talk about their feelings. Instead, they are told to “Be a Man”, “Toughen up” or “Real men don’t cry”.
Why?
What a world it would be if men could talk about their feelings or anxieties the same way one would talk about a sprained ankle or broken bone.
An Unhealthy Duo
Cortisol (stress hormone) can lower testosterone which studies have found low levels of testosterone are correlated with stress, anxiety, and depression. Less stress, fewer signs of low testosterone. Just as stress and low testosterone symptoms are often similar, they may improve with lifestyle changes that help lower your overall stress.
- Exercise regularly
- Get enough sleep
- Eat healthily
- Avoid too much alcohol and caffeine
- Find ways to relax and reduce stress
- Ask for help if struggling
Make time to Relax
Massage can be the bridge between mental and physical health. Massage is not only beneficial for sore achy muscles but also immune function and those pesky tension headaches. It is believed that massage can reduce stress 30% by lowering the levels of cortisol (stress hormone) in the body, which lowers blood pressure and heart rate while increasing serotonin and oxytocin levels. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in stabilizing your mood and promoting sleep and happiness. Oxytocin has anti-anxiety effects and promotes feelings of relaxation, and elevated mood.
Knowing the extensive health benefits bodywork can provide, massage can be life-changing to your overall health. The highly trained Massage Therapists at Apex are available to help you with your wellness needs.
We are a private practice outpatient physical therapy clinic offer high quality care with a personal touch. We believe that every patient should receive the quality care needed to help them prevent or rehabilitate their injuries or illnesses.
