SMOKO Magazine: The Bi-Monthly Digital Publication of I.R.S. | Page 13

HOW IT HELPS:

If you use it often enough, you can train your brain to instantly relax when

you think of your

man-cave.

But you

don't

have

to

use

it

just

for

relax-

ation!

The

mental

man-cave

can also be

used as a tool

for dealing with

more serious stuff.

This includes things that you might not openly talk about, like emotions or mental health issues.

HOW TO USE IT:

Get in a quiet, relaxing place and ask yourself the following questions:

Where is my man-cave? In a shed, on an island, etc.

What can I hear? Favourite music / sounds that relax you.

What can I see around me?

What can I do for fun?

Watch tv, play games etc.

What can you smell?

Think of your favourite smells.

How does your man-cave make you feel?

Do you feel safe? Relaxed? Don't be afraid to get in-touch with your feelings.

TIP:

If the outside world is too distracting, get some earphones and play music that relaxes you.

FOR RELAXATION:

What can you see and hear that puts you in a relaxed mood?

Use your imagination to come up with scenarios where you are relaxing in your man cave. This is also known as finding your 'happy place'.

FOR MENTAL HEALTH:

Don't be afaid to do some life reflection. Being aware of your current mental state is important for both physical and mental health.

Check in with yourself by asking the following questions:

How do I feel today?

Is it temporary?

How long have I

felt like this?

What makes me happy?

What makes me sad/angry/scared? Etc.

Who can I talk to about this? (there is always someone).