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A midlife crisis is considered a rite of passage for many a 40 to a 60-year-old man. The term midlife crisis was coined by Elliot Jaques in 1965 and since then has been used to label the psychological crisis that occurs when middle-aged men go through a confusing period of realizing their identity and re-establishing their self-confidence. It is usually brought about by any events that make these individuals think about their increasing age, inevitable mortality, and lack of achievements in life. This produces feelings of depression, high levels of regret, anxiety, and the desire to regain their youth. Many men suffering through a midlife crisis will try to make drastic changes to their lifestyles or try to fulfill dreams and aspirations they may have had in the past. If you know of someone who suddenly started favoring leather jackets and motorcycles or upgraded their television for the best 85-inch TV on the market, it is highly likely that this person is caught in the throes of a midlife crisis.
Most midlife crises can have a negative effect on domestic relationships. While there is no one-size-fits-all cure for a midlife crisis, there is substantial proof that points to the benefits of taking some time apart. It is crucial in any healthy relationship to take some time apart from your partner. Having your own private space to call your own may just be the best way to do that in a way that won’t damage your relationship!
Introducing the Man Cave
A man cave is a male sanctuary, where a man can relax and recharge himself away from his usual environment, a place where he is free to express himself away from his wife, children, or other responsibilities. A man cave could be a repurposed garage space, or a spare bedroom, or any other space within or without the house like an old media room, a den, or a basement.
It is not an actual cave but rather a metaphor describing a man’s own personal space where a guy may do as he pleases without the fear of upsetting the sensibilities of the women who he lives around. The term is a nod to the Stone Age where man did live in caves.
In the modern world, a man cave can be quite luxurious. A man cave can be a lavish and much-needed escape within an individual’s very own home.
How can a man cave help someone through a midlife crisis?
Some people might be skeptical of the idea that the man cave idea may actually work. However, most wives or partners would definitely be better off encouraging it. A man can make himself a better husband, father, and person, if he is able to forge an authentic, positive masculine identity in his own home. This expression of masculinity would be a million times more preferable to the stereotypical expressions of a midlife crisis like hitting the bars, having illicit affairs, tattoos, etc.
Since men are generally less expressive of their emotions, and tend to bottle them up, it is important for them to have some sort of personal space where they can get a distracting outlet to escape the tribulations of the world and work through things in their own way.
What goes in a man-cave?
Google it and you will get images by the thousands showing one luxurious man cave after another. Whether you decide to repurpose a shed, a spare room, garage space or attic in the house, we all need to create our own space where we can relax and do the things we love.
A Man Cave can come in all shapes and sizes. It should reflect who you are as a person and reflect your interests and passions, all the while giving us the freedom to express who we want to be. Man caves can be the extra space where we can enjoy the sport of your choice with your buddies. On the other hand, they could also be the zone of solitude where you can get extra work done. The benefits are endless.
The man cave is probably the only room in the house where you could have complete design authority. If you have the extra money, do take advantage of the opportunity to make your space unique. You can include any personal man cave ideas you may have. However, there some essentials that are must-haves for any man cave. In addition to the obvious entertainment sources, TV, sound system, games, a fridge for drinks and snacks, and the ultimate man cave can include anything that you need to relax. But before you go overboard designing your extravagant man cave, be sure to include the following items that are absolutely essential for your space:
1. Recliner
A recliner is essential so a man can just relax. It can also be used for work or to relax while you make client calls later at night. Additionally, men often fall asleep on the couch and wake up neck. This will most likely happen a few times when you are hanging out in your space so a recliner is a great idea.
2. Games -Dart Board or Poker Table
Dartboards and poker tables are highly encouraged additions to the entertainment aspect of the man cave. Both these items can be very useful not only during parties, but also when you want to blow off some steam alone or with a few close friends. Having a proper official poker table would be a fabulous addition to any man cave.
3. Personal Touches
Add as many personal touches to your man cave as you can. This will ensure that your space reflects who you are as a person and anyone who comes here know it. However, before you plaster pictures of your kids on all available spaces, keep in mind that this is a space where you come to escape. Use your personal accomplishments and memorabilia to decorate your area and shine a light on yourself.
4. Extra Seating
Man caves should be a space where you can invite the bros. For this purpose, extra seating is another essential. Home theatre-style seating is ideal but if you are short on space or budget, a large couch will suffice
5. Fandom Posters
No man cave is truly authentic without a few posters showcasing a real manly-man movie. Cult classics like The Godfather, Pulp Fiction, Scarface, or Reservoir Dogs are some obvious choices. Showcasing your fandoms will allow your guests a closer glimpse into what you really are.
As stated earlier, the man cave is not just a place to escape, but somewhere a man can truly express himself. Also, since this space will probably be the only room where you have complete creative control, choose wisely when you create your space.
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This content is brought to you by Wahab Ullah.
Photo: Shutterstock