Nurturing Your Well-Being in a Broken System
In a world where systemic oppression—whether racial, gender-based, economic, or otherwise—continues to impact millions, it can feel like survival itself is an act of resistance. The constant emotional and mental toll can leave little room for care, leaving us feeling drained and hopeless. But in the midst of this struggle, self-care isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessary form of resistance and survival. In this post, we’ll explore the importance of self-care during times of oppression and offer actionable steps to nurture your well-being, even when the world feels like it’s weighing you down.
Reclaiming Your Power Through Self-Care
Self-care is about reclaiming autonomy over your body, mind, and emotions. In a society that seeks to diminish your worth, self-care becomes an act of radical love for yourself. Here are some key ways to incorporate self-care into your life during difficult times:
Practical Self-Care Strategies in Oppressive Times
- Physical Self-Care: Nourishing Your Body
- Movement: Engage in physical activity that is accessible for you, even if it’s just a short walk, dancing, or stretching. Movement releases tension and helps process stress. Check out these queer- and trans-centric yoga and wellness resources:
- Rest: In times of high stress, it can be tempting to push through fatigue. But rest is essential for recovery. Honor your body’s need for sleep and relaxation.
- Nutrition: Feed yourself foods that fuel and nourish. The body cannot perform at its best when deprived of essential nutrients, so make time for balanced meals. But don’t forget treats, too!
- Pleasure: Whether it's as simple as a piece of chocolate or perhaps a new vibrator, try to create moments of pleasure that provide a brief escape from this shit show, and that can soothe and recharge you for the fight ahead.
- Mental & Emotional Self-Care: Guarding Your Mind
- Setting Boundaries: Limit your exposure to media or news (or toxic people) that may exacerbate feelings of helplessness or trauma. It’s okay to take breaks.
- Mindfulness & Meditation: Practice mindfulness techniques to ground yourself in the present moment. Meditation, deep breathing, or simply focusing on your breath can reduce anxiety and clear mental clutter.
- Therapy & Counseling: Seeking professional mental health support is essential. Whether through a therapist, counselor, or community support group, talking about your experiences can lighten the emotional load. Check out our blog post that lists inclusive mental healthcare resources in Tucson.
- Community Self-Care: Connecting with Others
- Solidarity & Support: You don’t have to do it alone. Find and lean into communities of care—whether through activism groups, social networks, or close-knit circles of friends and family.
- Empathy and Activism: Collective care is powerful. Taking part in social justice efforts, volunteering, or simply being a part of the change you wish to see can help restore a sense of agency.
Here are some groups and upcoming events in Tucson and beyond to where you can connect with like-minded folks and find support in community:
- Festival of Rebellion
- Southern Arizona Gender Alliance (SAGA)
- QTBIPOC Garden Group: Sat 2/8 & 2/22 10:30am at Las Milpitas Farm
- Project Rainbow Turtle - Queer Indigenous
- Fluxx Productions
- School of Drag: Every Sunday 12-2pm
The Importance of Saying No to Guilt
There’s often a guilt that comes with taking time for yourself, especially when you feel the weight of injustice pressing on you. You might think, “How can I rest when there’s so much work to be done?” But taking care of yourself is not selfish; it’s vital for sustainable activism and long-term well-being. Without your health—physical, mental, and emotional—your ability to fight for change is diminished.
The Role of Self-Care in Resistance Movements
Historically, movements for justice have relied on both individual self-care and collective care. The Black Panther Party, for example, understood the importance of self-care as part of their revolutionary practices, offering free meals, healthcare, and educational programs. This reminds us that self-care isn’t just individualistic—it’s part of a broader movement toward collective healing.
In this context, self-care becomes a revolutionary act. By prioritizing your well-being, you are ensuring that you can continue to fight for justice, advocate for change, and uplift your community for the long haul.
Self-care in times of oppression is not a sign of weakness—it’s a necessary tool for survival, healing, and resistance. By caring for yourself, you honor the strength within you and create the energy needed to continue advocating for the world you want to see. No matter how small or large the step, remember that your well-being matters, and taking time for yourself is an essential part of the fight for justice.
If you’ve found these tips helpful, share them with someone who might need a reminder to care for themselves. Join conversations about self-care in your community, and let’s continue to prioritize well-being while we work for a better, more just world.