So today’s post is a double whammy. It’s a shoutout to my male readers aannnddd a Thanksgiving inspired giveaway of one of my favorite things on earth: Larabars. And we’re not just giving away Larabars, we are giving away an awesome Larabar tote filled with bars, granola and a t-shirt to FOUR awesome readers. All you have to do to enter is comment on this post saying what you are thankful for this Thanksgiving, and (if you’re a dude) how you will incorporate one of these health tips into your life and (if you’re a gal) how you will gently guide one of the guys in your life with one of these health tips.

Ready?! Let’s go.

5 Health Tips for My Second Favorite Gender (Hehe, Just Kidding… Maybe), G U Y S !

1. Just because you’re a guy doesn’t mean that you aren’t allowed to have concerns about weight, body image or issues with food. So very often I come across incredible guys who are suffering from issues with body image and even eating disorders, and I can only imagine how misunderstood they feel. As a female recovering from a nasty eating disorder, I felt alone enough as it was and there are tons of women who are open about their eating disorder struggles and recovery journeys. And it doesn’t have to go as deep as an eating disorder– it’s okay to admit to wanting to work on your body or better your health. It doesn’t make you any less macho. It actually makes you more relatable and sensitive, and girls really dig that (I know I do at least.) And if you’re looking for a healthy snack to fuel you pre or post-workout (or even just mid-work day), Larabar is a great option. So many different yummy flavors.

2. Skipping Meals Doesn’t Make You Cool. You do not want to know how many men I have talked to who pride themselves on “Just not needing to eat breakfast,” or skipping lunch or dinner in favor of working crazy long hours. “I didn’t even have a snack today, dude, and then I ran like six miles… and now I’m going to bed.” Not cool. In fact, eating more fiber throughout the day keeps your metabolism running strong and your blood sugar levels in check. It all catches up with us in the end. (Those weekend middle of the night McDonalds binges? You can say goodbye if you’re maintaining a regular meal schedule.) And snack, snack, snack! Don’t be afraid of snacking!

3. Laugh It Off! Laughing really is the best stress reliever. I don’t mean to be sexist when I say that a lot of guys I know get extra wound up when they are stressed, but they do. For some reason it seems that more women understand the importance of winding down and treating themselves to some relaxation and a girls’ night (or some alone time). Sometimes the best thing you can do for yourself is step away from whatever it is that’s stressing you out, and let loose with some friends or the girl that makes you smile. I promise it will be worth it in the end, and it makes for a happier and healthier you in the long run. (That’s what life is all about anyway, right?)

4. Yoga is not to be feared. Please, for the love of God, don’t be one of those guys who loudly and idiotically declares that yoga is not a workout. “I mean, I would do that, but I like to actually sweat when I work out.” Have you ever set foot in a power vinyasa hot yoga class? Think again. And the stress and tension-relieving benefits of stretching and breath work are not to be glossed over, either. A real (healthy, balanced) man isn’t afraid of the yoga studio. It also lowers blood sugar, slows heart rates and increases flexibility. Yoga isn’t all about girls in spandex twisting themselves into pretzels. And if you want some recommendations for some awesome (even bro-ish, if you’re into that) teachers, holler at yo girl.

5. Fad Diets are Not Your Friend. “No, really, Paleo REALLY, REALLY works for me,” says my male friend who drinks heavily on the weekend and then gorges on fast food. If you find something that works for you, be my guest. But just because Mark’s Daily Apple or Jared Leto is doing it doesn’t mean it’s going to be the cure all to your probs. Life is all about balance, and learning to live a lifestyle in moderation is where it’s really at. I promise. Cut back on gluten if you so desire, and sugar isn’t really going to make you feel awesome either, but making those cutbacks so you can enjoy what you love in healthy amounts is what it’s all about.

And who’s ready to win a Larabar tote with lots of goodies inside?!

Just comment on this post about your takeaways on TBB’s quick guide to men’s health and balance, and tell me what YOU are thankful for this year. I am thankful for: my loving family, my best friends and getting to do this job that I am absolutely in love with every day.

Happy early Thanksgiving to all of you amazing souls! I am so grateful to have you all in my life.