International Self-Care Day is swiftly approaching. The date of July 24 was chosen as a subtle nod for us to remember to take care of ourselves seven days a week, 24 hours each day.
Self-care is something I have gotten much better at over the years. I am by no means perfect, but I am definitely getting better at taking time out for myself to rest, to read, to relax, and sometimes to just do absolutely nothing.
When I think about self care, I focus on nourishing my mind, body, and spirit. I absolutely love to practice self-care by reading a page-turning novel or rereading an old book that makes me feel good. I also go on long walks in the park to look at birds, hug trees, and get my steps in. Some people like to go for a long run and work up a sweat, or bike for miles on end—that’s not my personal preference, but so many of my friends find true joy in running or biking to observe life passing them by.
As for my spirit, even though I am not consistent with it, meditating each morning or at the close of the day truly centers me. Dedicating time for quiet in our busy lives is a way to remain dedicated to spiritual self-care.
Making time for self-care helps us strengthen our mental health as well. July is also Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. With so many stories of police brutality, micro aggressions, overt racism, and the sharp rightward turn of our national political scene, the stresses of daily life directly affect our mental health. For many, there is a tendency to go through life like an Energizer Bunny. For some, the financial burdens of life can make molehills feel like mountains. The real-world pressures of having enough money contribute to physical health effects as well as mental health effects.
It is imperative that we take time, even if only a few minutes each day, to slow down, take stock of priorities, and focus on all of the ways we can strengthen our minds, bodies, and spirits, so we can have the energy to do what we desire in life.
For this International Self-Care Day, there are a myriad of activities for you to take part in. You can spend time in nature, you can treat yourself to a little pampering at a spa, or you can just put your phone down for a few extra minutes and be present in your own life. I know so many of us are tethered to our phones, but we must remember the times when we were productive and happy without being connected to the internet 24 hours each day.
Christina Greer, Ph.D., is an associate professor at Fordham University; author of “Black Ethnics: Race, Immigration, and the Pursuit of the American Dream”; co-host of the podcast FAQ-NYC; and host of The Blackest Questions podcast at TheGrio.