How Yoga Supports Men’s Mental Health–Stronger, Calmer, Better

Men’s Health and Mental Health Awareness Month

In a world where men are often taught to “tough it out,” conversations around mental health can still carry stigma. But more and more men are finding that strength isn’t about holding it all in—it’s about having the tools to cope, recover, and thrive. This June, in honor of Men’s Health and Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re shedding light on how yoga can be one of those tools.

Why It Matters

Mental health challenges affect men at staggering rates:

• Over 6 million men in the U.S. suffer from depression each year

• Men are less likely than women to seek help for emotional struggles

• Suicide rates among men are significantly higher—especially in middle age

Yoga, breathwork, and mindfulness offer a supportive space for men to address stress, anxiety, and burnout—without judgment or pressure. These practices help regulate the nervous system, reduce cortisol levels, and increase emotional resilience over time.

From Our Community

Our male members often share how yoga has improved not only their physical fitness, but also their stress levels, sleep, and mental clarity. Whether it’s stepping into their first Unheated Gentle Yoga class, embracing the challenge of Heated Vinyasa, or discovering the grounding effects of breathwork and meditation—there’s a growing realization: yoga isn’t just for women. It’s for anyone who wants to feel stronger, calmer, and better.

Here’s what they’re saying:

“My ego kept me from yoga, thinking it wasn’t for me, but Soul Society changed everything. The instructors are skilled and welcoming, and the clean, serene studio feels like home. Classes, from intense to relaxed, have made me stronger and calmer. The new cold plunge and sauna are awesome for recovery. The group’s like family. This place improved my life—five stars!” - Marty Armin

“I have never taken a yoga class, and I think that was because I did not know what to expect or maybe I thought I would be embarrassed to take a class....but those days are over. I had the pleasure of taking a relaxing beginners class today led by Julia Collins, and it was amazing. I took the class with 8 others from our leadership team as a team building exercise and we all walked away truly thankful for such a soulful hour of yoga.” - Scott Meushaw

“Yoga is a completely different type of workout than my other strength and cardio routines. It forces me to clear my mind and focus while I am on the mat. I can power through my other workouts whereas yoga forces me to be present in the moment. I find regular practice increases my strength, balance, flexibility, and improves my mental state.” - Chris Jacobs

“I didn’t know much about yoga when I started. I thought it might help me loosen up and allow me to get a light work out in. It’s so much more than that. In talking with non yogis it’s clear the perception is, Yoga is good for stretching. In fact they say they don’t want to do it because they aren’t very flexible. Ironically that’s the whole point! They don’t feel yoga is really an intense workout. Clearly they’ve never done Vinyassa and Bikram! I don’t breath hard going up flights of stairs anymore and I always have a glow throughout the day after a hot vigorous practice. Sweating is great for my skin.” - Keith Summers

Yoga for Golfers and Desk Sitters

Long hours at a desk or on the course can take a toll on your body. Whether you're powering through your golf swing or parked in front of a screen all day, the result is often the same: tight hips, stiff backs, and aching shoulders. That’s where yoga comes in.

Yoga offers targeted relief for both golfers and desk-sitters, helping improve mobility, balance, posture, and mental clarity. It’s not just about flexibility—it’s about feeling better in your body and staying in the game, both on the course and in daily life.

Why Yoga Works:

1. Improves Hip Mobility

Golfers rely on powerful hip rotation; desk-sitters often develop tight hips. Yoga helps open the hip flexors and glutes, enhancing:

• Swing fluidity

• Balance and control

• Reduced lower back strain

2. Enhances Core Strength & Stability

A strong core supports your swing and your posture. Yoga strengthens deep abdominal and back muscles to improve:

• Golf form and follow-through

• Injury prevention

• Spinal support during long periods of sitting

3. Releases Tension in Neck & Shoulders

Hunched posture from screens or long drives leads to tension. Yoga stretches:

• Upper traps, lats, and chest

• Neck and shoulders

• Promoting posture and pain relief

4. Boosts Balance & Body Awareness

• Balance poses train coordination and weight distribution for better athletic performance and postural health.

5. Promotes Recovery & Joint Longevity

• Gentle stretches and breathwork help reduce inflammation—great for frequent golfers and stiff desk-sitters alike.

6. Reduces Stress & Sharpens Focus

• Calm under pressure

• Present-moment focus

• Emotional regulation

Start Where You Are

At Soul Society, we offer beginner-friendly and recovery-based classes perfect for men who are new to yoga or looking to complement other fitness routines. You don’t have to be flexible or know the lingo—just come as you are, and we’ll meet you there. Yoga isn’t about being flexible—it’s about being present. It’s learning to tune into your breath when life feels overwhelming. It’s finding focus through movement, clarity through stillness, and confidence by showing up for yourself.  

With Father’s Day around the corner, there’s never been a better time to introduce yoga into your routine—not just for yourself, but as a way to support your health for the people who count on you. Better yet? A class pass, membership, or gift card make a thoughtful and unique Father’s Day gift. Whether he’s a golfer, a desk-sitter, or simply someone ready to move better and feel better, yoga offers benefits that last far beyond the mat.

Start where you are, and let the journey begin.