Now more than ever, it's okay not to be okay. However, perhaps it is also time for us tp pause every now and then and recognise that we are at a point in human history when we are all tied by something similar: Change, That's tough.
Self-care is not just bubble baths and treating yourself to a manicure (although those are certainly nice). And while it can be those things, self-care goes much deeper than that. Rather than being self-indulgent, self-care is both an individual and collective responsibility.
Here I share my Top 3 ways to not fall apart during pandemics, political unrest or any other challenges that tax our minds and hearts.
1. Honor Your Emotions
With everything that's going on in our world today, you're probably experiencing a wild emotional ride right now, and that's absolutely normal. Now more than ever, it's okay not to be okay.
You may feel fine one moment, anxious the next, and end up in a sobbing heap on the floor after that. Honor all of it. Allow yourself to feel it.
I tend to emulate other strong men and women out there who I feel are crushing it in times of crisis. But the main thing is this: Feeling is healing, so don't force yourself to be positive if you feel like the world is ending.
2. Respect your Daily Routine
All too often, when we don't practice mindful media consumption, or when the emotional rollercoaster from current events just take their toll, it is too easy to forego breakfast while we maniacally scroll our notification feeds.
Eating and exercising could all of a sudden take a procrastination-fuelled back seat to The News. I urge you to make a real effort for this not to be YOU. It's easy to fall into bad habits and fall out of love with things you love doing. Don't, seriously, just don't.
Our Work-Life-Balance Blogs are here for you.
Having a daily routine in place can help alleviate anxiety. It also reduces decision fatigue, helping you to feel less frazzled and more clear-headed.
Waking up and going to bed at the same time, regular meal times, and blocking your time for work, rest, and play also makes it easier to get things done.
You could even schedule in "thinking time" for processing your emotions through journaling, freeing up headspace that will help you concentrate on other things.
3. Rest
Last but most definitely not least, rest is one of the most powerful self-care practices out there. It also happens to be one of the easiest and most enjoyable!
If you've come this far, then you may be going through a lot now emotionally, physically, and energetically. It's exhausting. Sleep is epic.
We all know sleep is healing, so allow yourself to rest whenever you feel tired. If you find yourself suddenly needing naps for the first time since you were a toddler, embrace it!
In summary:
Self-care means different things to different people, so it's up to you to figure out what works for you and what doesn't.
Some people are not coping with Change and crises very well, and an abyss of anxiety and stress ensures. But others are finally starting long put-off projects or developing new skills. I particularly love the idea of immersing in ways to upskill in this brave new world. .
No matter what your emotional response is, all of it is okay. The best way to practice self-care is to ask yourself what you really need, and then allow yourself to have it — without judgment.
Desiree, our Founder, is rather fond of self-care conversations. A previous version of this blog was published in LetsTalkMelanin and "8 Self-Care Tips for Entrepreneurs" is a personal favourite is in DesireeReid.com
