Celebrating International Men’s Day with talks on emotional health, societal pressures, and vulnerability
Last week, Acuity celebrated International Men’s Day with a Lunch and Learn event focused on acknowledging men’s contributions to society, recognising positive role models, and addressing gender stereotypes. The event featured insightful talks from three men who shared their personal experiences.
John Grant: Men’s Emotional Struggles and the Importance of Vulnerability
The first speaker, John Grant, a partner in corporate health care and life coach, summarised his ten years of experience into five key points regarding men’s emotional struggles. He highlighted how men often find it difficult to express, suppress, or repress their emotions – sometimes even running away from them. Grant emphasised that suppressing emotions can have serious health consequences, such as heart attacks. Instead, he advocated for allowing oneself to feel emotions, a process that takes time and practice.
He also discussed the importance of not taking life personally, suggesting that individuals can choose how to respond to challenges. He stressed that appreciating emotions and practicing gratitude, can help with mindset and perspective. Furthermore, he encouraged letting go of past guilt and future worries, as they often only affect the present moment.
Jon Lawley: Breaking Societal Expectations and Defining Success
The second speaker, Jon Lawley, partner, discussed the societal pressures men face, particularly the expectation to be strong and physically powerful. He noted that this societal norm has led to issues like mental health struggles, including depression and suicide, as men often feel they cannot express vulnerability. Lawley emphasised the importance of creating a support network where men can openly discuss their emotions.
He also discussed the challenge of defining success based on personal values rather than societal expectations, and for men to align their actions with their values and not just on accomplishments. Lawley further encouraged men to embrace leadership through vulnerability, and to form intentional, supportive friendships. He concluded by asserting that men can be more than just strong – they can be wise, compassionate, and authentically themselves.
Chris Flynn: The Link Between Physical Health and Mental Well-being
The third speaker, Chris Flynn, co-founder and head coach at The Green Mile Training Camp, explored the physical aspects of mental and emotional health. With a background in the Army and a deep sense of brotherhood, Chris shared his personal experience of losing six men to suicide by the age of 33. His training camp, which collaborates with teams like the Welsh Rugby squads, focuses on optimising health and performance.
He highlighted the significance of functional breathing and its profound effects on every cell and system in the body. Chris led an exercise to demonstrate that many UK adults breathe improperly, which impacts focus and attention. After practicing proper breathing techniques, the audience experienced a noticeable sense of calm, underscoring the vital role of breathing in mental well-being.
Thanks to Alex Cater for chairing the event.
