Taking 20:

Take 20: Why Stepping Away from Work is a Game-Changer for Your Mental Health

Guys, let’s get real for a moment. Life is busy. Work is demanding. And if you’re like most middle-aged men, you’ve probably convinced yourself that there’s just no time to take a break. But here’s the truth: you always have 20 minutes. And those 20 minutes? They could be the best investment you make in your mental health today.

Science backs it up. Studies from institutions like Harvard and the Mayo Clinic have shown that even short breaks—just 20 minutes—can significantly reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve focus. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a quiet read, or a short meditation session, stepping away from your desk resets your brain and body.

Think of it like rebooting your computer. When things start lagging, you don’t just keep clicking—you restart. Your mind works the same way. A 20-minute pause can clear mental fog, boost creativity, and even improve your mood. It’s not a luxury. It’s maintenance.

And no, you don’t need a yoga mat or a mountain retreat. You can do this anywhere. Early morning before the house wakes up. Late evening after the emails stop. In your car, in the park, or even in the break room. The key is consistency and intention.

Here’s what 20 minutes a day can do for you:

• Lower cortisol levels (that’s your stress hormone)

• Improve heart health

• Enhance memory and concentration

• Boost emotional resilience

It’s not about escaping responsibility—it’s about showing up better for everything and everyone that matters. You’re not slacking off. You’re sharpening the axe.

So next time you think, “I don’t have time,” remember: you do. You just have to take it. Your mind, your body, and your loved ones will thank you.

Take 20. You’ve earned it.

Let’s not go …there…

Suicidal thoughts are a painful and overwhelming experience, but they are not the answer to your struggles. It’s important to recognize that these thoughts, while intense, are often temporary and can be managed with the right support and coping strategies.

When life feels unbearable, it’s easy to believe that ending it is the only way to escape the pain. However, this is not true. Suicide is a permanent solution to temporary problems. It denies the possibility of recovery, of things getting better, or of finding joy again. There are people who have been in the depths of despair, only to find hope and purpose after weathering the storm. Your feelings are valid, but they are not fixed—they can and will change.

If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, there are ways to combat them:

1. **Reach Out for Help**: One of the most important steps is to talk to someone—a friend, family member, or a professional. Often, just sharing your feelings can bring a sense of relief. Don’t hesitate to reach out to organizations like the Samaritans (116 123 in the UK). They offer confidential support 24/7 for anyone in emotional distress.

2. **Create a Safety Plan**: This can include listing reasons to live, writing down emergency contacts, and identifying distractions or places you feel safe.

3. **Practice Self-Compassion**: Be kind to yourself during tough times. Negative thoughts often stem from feelings of worthlessness, but remember, you are deserving of love and support.

4. **Seek Professional Help**: Therapy, especially Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), can be incredibly effective in challenging and changing the negative thought patterns that contribute to suicidal feelings.

Remember, your life has value. There is hope, and there is help. Reach out today.

Let’s call it “Non-Thinking”

Meditation. The elusive pursuit.

As a 4Der, most of us know little about meditation. We “sort of know” it has gained significant attention for its numerous benefits, ranging from stress reduction to improved mental clarity. However, despite the growing popularity of this ancient practice, 4Ders often find it challenging to incorporate meditation into their daily routines. This article aims to explore the various factors contributing to this struggle and shed light on why finding time to meditate remains a significant challenge for many men in this demographic. We’d recommend a starter meditation kit from Ekotex yoga to get you on your way to finding time to meditate.

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Demanding Work and Family Commitments:

One of the primary reasons we struggle to find time for meditation is their demanding work and family commitments. As individuals in this age group often have to work hard to makes ends meet and bear considerable responsibilities within their families, their schedules are often packed with work, meetings, deadlines, and family obligations. Balancing these responsibilities becomes a daunting task, leaving little room for personal time, let alone meditation.

Is it “soft”?

Stereotypes play a crucial role in discouraging 4Ders from embracing meditation. Men are often conditioned to prioritize productivity, assertiveness, and achievement, which can inadvertently lead to neglecting self-care practices like meditation. The perceived image of masculinity associated with strength and resilience often discourages men from engaging in activities perceived as "soft" or "spiritual."

Lack of Awareness and Understanding:

Another factor contributing to the struggle is the lack of awareness and understanding about the benefits of meditation. Many 4Ders may not fully comprehend how meditation can positively impact their mental and emotional well-being. This lack of knowledge may result in underestimating the potential benefits, making it less likely for them to prioritize meditation over other activities. Why not read “Touchstones” a book on the subject of meditation for men to give you some guidance?

Limited Exposure and Role Models:

We may have limited exposure to meditation or lack relatable role models who actively practice it. The absence of prominent figures or peers who openly discuss and endorse meditation can contribute to the perception that it is not a suitable practice for them. Without relatable examples, it becomes difficult for men to envision themselves incorporating meditation into their lives.

Time Management and Prioritization:

Time management is a significant challenge for individuals of all ages, and 4Ders are no exception. With numerous responsibilities and obligations, finding the time to meditate can feel like an added burden. The inability to effectively prioritize personal well-being can lead to neglecting self-care practices, including meditation. Where better than Harvard University to give you some time management tips ?

So Let’s just call it “Non Thinking” then.

While the benefits of meditation are undeniable, we face unique challenges that make finding time for this practice difficult. Demanding work and family commitments, societal expectations, limited exposure to meditation, and time management issues all contribute to the struggle. Overcoming these obstacles requires a shift in perspective, education about the benefits, and an emphasis on self-care and mental well-being. By recognizing the value of meditation and creating a supportive environment, we can encourage middle-aged men to embrace this transformative practice and experience its profound positive effects on their lives.

Reading about mental health

There are several excellent books on mental health that specifically cater to 4Ders’ unique experiences and challenges. Here are some highly regarded books for you to consider to hel p out with mental health.

"Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor E. Frankl: While not exclusively about mental health, this book explores the importance of finding purpose and meaning in life, which can have a profound impact on our mental well-being.

"The Mask of Masculinity: How Men Can Embrace Vulnerability, Create Strong Relationships, and Live Their Fullest Lives" by Lewis Howes: This book explores the societal pressures that often lead men to hide their emotions and offers insights on breaking free from harmful masculine stereotypes.

"n" by Terrence Real: Focusing on the issue of male depression, this book explores the unique challenges faced by 4Ders and provides guidance on how to recognize and overcome it.

"The Will to Change: Men, Masculinity, and Love" by Bell Hooks: This book delves into the construction of masculinity and how it affects men's emotional lives. It offers a critique of patriarchal norms and suggests ways for men to develop healthier and more fulfilling relationships.

"The Mindful Way through Depression: Freeing Yourself from Chronic Unhappiness" by Mark Williams, John Teasdale, Zindel Segal, and Jon Kabat-Zinn: Although not specifically aimed at men, this book provides a comprehensive guide to mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for depression, which can be beneficial for anyone struggling with mental health challenges.

Remember, individual experiences and preferences may vary, so it's always a good idea to read reviews and summaries to find the books that resonate with your specific needs and interests.

Additionally, seeking professional help from mental health practitioners is essential when dealing with personal challenges. Remember, this happens to a LOT of people and practicioners are hear to HELP , not JUDGE ! Good luck and remember to look after yourself.

Best places to reflect on life

There are many great places to reflect on life. Here are a few suggestions for 4Ders.

• Nature: Being in nature can be a great way to clear your head and connect with something bigger than yourself. Try going for a walk in the park, hiking in the mountains, or sitting by the ocean.

• Religious or spiritual places: If you are religious or spiritual, visiting a place of worship or meditation can be a great way to reflect on your beliefs and connect with your higher power.

• Quiet spaces: If you need a quiet place to think, try going to a library, coffee shop, or even your own bedroom. Turn off your phone and computer and give yourself some time to just be with your thoughts.

• Places that hold personal meaning: If there is a place that has special meaning to you, such as the place where you grew up or the place where you met your spouse, going there can be a great way to reflect on your life and all that you have experienced.

To try a break where you can reflect on life, why not consider Wellbeing Holidays? There breaks are organise by professionals in the field and come highly recommended.

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No matter where you choose to reflect on life, the most important thing is to create a space where you can be still and quiet and allow your thoughts to come to you. When you are in a state of peace and quiet, you are more likely to have insights and clarity about your life.

Here at 4D we prefer to just find a quiet place in a park or by a river. We’re able to think about things in a setting that we are not normally able to access without friends. And hey, how about switching off that phone?

Screens Down…

Spending excessive amounts of time on screens, such as smartphones, computers, tablets, and televisions, can have negative effects on your mental health. Here are several reasons why:

**Increased risk of mental health disorders**: Studies have linked excessive screen time to an increased risk of mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Excessive screen use can disrupt sleep patterns, negatively impact mood, and contribute to feelings of isolation and loneliness.

**Social isolation and reduced social skills**: Excessive screen time can lead to reduced face-to-face social interactions and increased reliance on virtual interactions. This can contribute to feelings of isolation and loneliness, which are detrimental to mental health. Additionally, spending too much time on screens may impair the development of social skills necessary for building and maintaining relationships in the real world.

**Negative impact on sleep**: The blue light emitted by screens can disrupt the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. Excessive screen use, particularly in the evening or before bed, can interfere with the quality and duration of sleep. Poor sleep has a significant impact on mental health, contributing to increased stress levels, impaired cognitive function, and decreased emotional well-being.

**Escapism and avoidance**: Spending excessive time on screens can become a form of escapism or avoidance of real-life problems and responsibilities. Engaging in excessive screen use to avoid facing difficulties can exacerbate stress and anxiety, as well as hinder the development of healthy coping mechanisms.

**Decreased productivity and concentration**: Constant exposure to screens and digital distractions can diminish productivity and impair concentration. Frequent interruptions from notifications, social media, and online entertainment can make it difficult to focus on tasks and achieve a state of flow. This can lead to frustration, decreased work or academic performance, and increased stress levels.

**Comparison and self-esteem issues**: Social media platforms often present idealized versions of people's lives, which can lead to social comparison and negatively impact self-esteem. Constant exposure to carefully curated posts and images can create unrealistic standards and expectations, fostering feelings of inadequacy, envy, and dissatisfaction with one's own life.

To maintain good mental health, it is important to establish a healthy balance between screen time and other activities. This can include setting limits on screen use, engaging in offline hobbies, spending time with loved ones, getting regular exercise, and practicing mindfulness or other stress-reduction techniques. It's also beneficial to prioritize quality sleep, maintain a healthy social life, and seek support from mental health professionals if needed.

At 4D, we recommend saving battery life by a few simple methods.

Don’t turn on a screen first thing on the morning or last thing at night and use that time to tell yourself that today/tomorrow will be a good day and that many of the “now” problems in life simply fade away if left for a while !