For better or worse, we’re all influenced by a multitude of things that surround us. And as guys, it can be really difficult to be strong enough in our own convictions – especially if those principles may not align with the traditional societal expectations of how a ‘real man’ should think, speak and act. 

For instance, I was raised a huge football fan. I adore my teams and get really passionate for the upcoming games. Damn it, I just love this time of year. I also thoroughly enjoy listening to a couple of the radio personalities throughout the day when all they’re talking is Broncos football. 

However, sometimes the commentary may take a sidebar after some info leaks out about a player that may regularly practice yoga, meditation or another type of spiritual practice. Inevitably, that commentary becomes steeped in sarcasm and cynicism. And I’m immediately reminded that I may not actually be their typical listener that the station is trying to reach. Instead, I’m guessing that the chances are more likely that the average guy listening in is giggling right along with the personality’s mockery. 

So my immediate response that’s triggering inside my head is that I should probably keep my own daily practices quiet. I’m probably going to see my own helping of mockery if I make it known how important I find a daily yoga session is…. Or that I do my very best every day to make meditation a non-negotiable practice for me.

But instead, I know I need to hold onto the fact that – 

If I know how crucial these practices are to me and why they keep my mind and body in a space that is consistently working to be the best version of me….

If one of my main purposes of why the MDG exists is to help others see beyond the normal expectation, the assumption of how a man is ‘supposed’ to act… the exterior tough-guy facade that conceals the inner uncertainty and reluctance existing in so many….

Then why the hell wouldn’t I share these practices with others? They freaking help. They’re absolutely vital to continue my growth in becoming the person I know I’m meant to be. 

Enjoying a spiritual practice may still be somewhat scoffed upon by the mainstream… it’s a routine that’s still not entirely embraced by the masculinity norms. While I believe the commentary is starting to shift, it’s just not quite there yet.

Considering the regularity that I go to a sold-out yoga class and there might be another guy in the class. But it’s more likely that I’m the only one there. I’ve had conversations with the teachers at the studio about how they struggle to keep men there as clients. It really is an interesting feeling. I find that I really have to be pretty confident in myself.

But recognizing the ease that we tend to find ourselves spouting vulgarity in basic conversation out in public (I’m certainly not absolved when it comes to profanity), why is the term Spirituality something we’re so reluctant to use? Sure seems like it’s a word we Men want to avoid at all costs.

Personally, I think we should start a new approach of speaking profanity. Then maybe it’d become a little more accepted…. 

Namaste, brother.