Self-care is about more than lounging amid luxurious surroundings. Much, much more
As we advance toward our post-pandemic lives amid civic unrest, racial tensions and a labor shortage, it is imperative that we as Black people remember to take care of ourselves. There's the glamorized version of self-care that we see depicted on social media – such as lavish trips to luxurious spas and salons – but what about the type of self-care that involves what sometimes seems like more work? While self-care can consist of things that are enjoyable, it also often involves doing the hard work that prevents burnout, overwhelm and overall breakdown.
Sign on spiritually Spirituality, according to Jianbin Xu in the British Journal of Social Work, is the "search for the sacred" in one's life that incorporates connection with self, others and the divine, and it gives life purpose and meaning. This is and has been a popular way of coping and self-care for as long as Black people have been in America. Signing on spiritually can look very different for everyone and there is no right way do it. For some Black people, that may mean meditating or praying. For others, spirituality incorporates reading religious or inspirational texts for guidance and self-improvement. Regardless of what it means for you, find your way of connecting spiritually. Allocate alone time Although many people avoid it, being alone is highly beneficial. The Solitude Project found that people who consciously choose to have alone time experience stress relief and relaxation when they are alone. Alone time also allows space for reflection. A great way to reflect during alone time is journaling. Journaling provides the opportunity for you to process unresolved issues and feelings or simply recount things that you weren't otherwise able to deal with. At first, it can be hard to be alone. So start by spending 15 minutes alone with just your thoughts. Show gratitude by giving back We've endured a global pandemic, protested police brutality and racial discrimination, and demanded higher wages for our work. There is so much to be grateful for. One way to show gratitude for all we survive on a daily basis is by giving back. Like all self-care practices, there are numerous ways to give back. You can give your time, resources and or talents. Research shows that any act of altruism is connected to positive physical and mental effects. According to an October 2020 post on clevelandclinic.org, this includes lower blood pressure, increased self-esteem, less depression, lower stress levels, and even longer life and greater happiness. Kara Lynch, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is the voice behind kontentlykara.com, a mental health blog inspiring people with mental health challenges. She is a mental health advocate and mentor who holds a bachelor's degree in English from North Carolina State University.
First published in Black Mental Health Today, Winter 2021 (No. 2).