NXT45’s Mike Bates, Jonny Grayshon, and Joe Gaunt hosted an all-day health and well-being session for CEL Solicitors’ male colleagues.
What is NXT45?
Founded by Mike Bates, a former covert counter-terrorism operations leader; Jonny Grayshon, a professional strength and conditioning coach; and Joe Gaunt, a Health Psychologist and Doctoral Researcher, NXT45 aims to challenge the stigma around men’s mental health, particularly as they approach the second half of their lives.
NXT45 hosts an annual retreat called ‘The Hundred’, which features keynote speakers, nutritious catering, and health-focused experiences. The aim is for men to feel recharged, empowered, and educated on how to become the best versions of themselves.
We were fortunate to welcome NXT45 into the office as their first corporate clients. The team hosted an all-day session, similar to ‘The Hundred’ retreat, for our male colleagues.
NXT45 visit CEL Solicitors
With our male staff gathered into the amphitheatre, the NXT45 team introduced themselves and shared their mission of changing the conversation surrounding men’s health. Mike rightly pointed out that men, of all ages, can struggle with their mental health, and in providing them with tools and insights, they are better equipped to overcome the challenges they face and lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Joe Gaunt, an expert in behavioural change, kicked off the first session by highlighting the significance of goal setting, staying focused on your own journey, and not getting caught up in what you see on social media.
The men then took part in a group exercise led by fitness coach, Johnny Grayshon, followed by a healthy lunch.
Afterwards, Mike Bates delivered a workshop which allowed the males to reflect on their personal values. Mike touched on his own journey as a former Royal Marine and intelligence specialist, encouraging staff to think about their purpose and the paths they wish to take.
Jonny Grayshon, the founder of a body transformation business, delivered a presentation discussing fitness and nutrition, dispelling myths on physical training.
Impact and Reflections
Our males found the day to be impactful and thought-provoking, resulting in valuable insights and reflections such as:
“It’s very important for men to be able to say whatever they want without fear of judgement, and that was an open floor today. It was amazing.”
“My biggest takeaway was that looking after your mental health means to also focus on home, work, self, and others.”
“I learned a lot: how to create habits and find out your values and goals.”
“It prompted some difficult internal conversations that I have been avoiding for too long.”
“It got people involved and there were some great insights to take home.”
Commenting on the visit, Jonny Grayshon said:
“Firstly, what an amazing company, location, and values; prioritising staff performance and health. The vibe was energetic and friendly. Clearly a happy workforce!
“We had the opportunity to reach out to a slightly younger audience than usual and help guys in their mid-to-late 20s understand the benefits of living a healthier lifestyle and how this can impact both mental and physical health further down the line.
“It was great to see them being so enthusiastic during their mindset and goal setting workshop and how open they were willing to be. At NXT45, we are working hard to encourage men to be more open and honest, to break down the problem of lads not communicating and to eradicate the “man up and deal with it” culture.”
Thank you to the NXT45 team, Mike, Jonny, and Joe for having such a positive impact on our male colleagues.
