As guys, we don’t always take the time to indulge. Sure, we’ll enjoy a great beer from time to time, or sink our teeth into an aged prime cut of beef, but what do we REALLY do to relax our bodies and minds to remind ourselves we’re worthy of awesome things? Whether you’ve seen the “Treat Yo Self” episode of Parks and Rec or not, chances are it’s a phrase you’ve heard at work or amongst friends. It means taking some time, once a year (or more) to, well, treat yo self!
Photo: Fuzzytek on Flickr
We often think of pampering as something only women do. While they might pamper themselves more, we’re equally worthy of it. The ultimate in pampering is a massage. If you’ve never had one before, it can be a bit intimidating. Be honest when you schedule the appointment and when you meet your masseuse. Let them know that this is your first massage and you’d like a little guidance along the way. They’re happy to help. The reason we love it is because its 60 quiet minutes where you don’t have to think about a single thing. No text interruptions, kids grabbing, or emails from the office; just a moment for you to let go and relax.
Photo: Jeremy Brooks
If you neglect your feet, raise your hand… go ahead, we know you’re guilty. Lots of guys wear work boots on a daily basis or if you’re in an office setting, dress shoes. Both are equally taxing on your feet. If you’ve got a wide foot or are carrying a whole lot of man on those feet (guilty x2), you’re putting them through the ringer daily. Now you’re probably saying: “pedicures are NOT for me”. That’s a natural reaction, but when it comes down to it, they ARE for you. 30 minutes of hanging out in a comfortable leather chair, soaking your tired feet in warm water, and having someone brush away all the gross stuff from your feet is what it’s all about. Sometimes a sweet leg and foot massage is included. If you work on your feet all day, it’ll feel like liquid gold.
Treat yo self to a professional shave
OK, so you don’t want to get a massage, we get it. You’re pretty sure a pedicure is not for you (you’re making a mistake), so what’s left? We’re hedging our bets on this last option: a hot towel shave and (optional) beard trim. This is the most manly of all the “treat yo self” options. There are plenty of “high end” barber shops popping up all over the country and a lot of them will serve you a glass of whiskey while you’re in the chair. If you’ve never had a professional shave, you’re in for a treat. A barber will coat your beard area with aromatic oil, cover your face with a warm towel and let it sit for a few minutes. This loosens the hair follicles and makes for a smoother shave. If you’re going for a smooth face, the barber will usually break out the straight edge razor for the closest possible shave. If a beard trim is the goal, scissors and buzzers will sculpt the perfect mane.
This is our take on how to “treat yo self” but what’s your idea of indulging? Buying something you’ve been wanting? Cracking open an aged bottle of whiskey? Taking the afternoon off of work to go for a drive? Sound off in the comments below. We’ll be doing “treat yo self” part 2 with your feedback.
