Self Care for Badass Feminists

It's not an easy time to be a feminist - but then, it never is! Whether it's keeping tabs on the debacle that is American politics, reflecting on the sad state of our own government's non-reaction to the national issues of female representation in positions of power and appalling rates of domestic violence, as well as the rising tide of conservatism globally - it can often feel like pushing a boulder uphill without rest or respite.

We all know, and believe in, the slogans: never stop fighting! Resist! Nevertheless persist! They are all admirable sentiments and goals we should all aspire to. But they also encourage a persistence that is almost super-human - and it can lead to feelings of guilt and inadequacy when we need a break or, if we don't take one, when we inevitably burn out. This is why it's SO important to prioritise self-care - it's the fuel in your tank that allows you to get up and keep going. If you think of it that way, rather than as an indulgence, you'll avoid misguided feelings of guilt or shame that can come along with calling a time out - and learn to keep yourself in tip-top shape to keep fighting for another day.

Here are some suggestions for self-care that will help you feel rejuvenated, mentally and physically. Use one or all of them as needed and remember: just like on an airplane, you have to secure your own air supply before assisting anyone else - or you won't be much help to anyone at all.

1. Log Off and Look Around
The Internet can seem like an absolute assault on the senses when you're in tune with the political sphere. You can be bombarded by news - much of it negative - from all fronts, 24 hours a day. With access to more information than ever before, it's almost impossible not to feel overwhelmed - so make sure you take time to log off and focus on the here and now. Pick up a book and lose yourself in another world, spend some time with your family, or partner, or pets, or take a long walk and focus on what's around you. The flowers just starting to bloom, the sound of birds singing, the sight of people on the street going about their day - whatever you need to remind yourself that there is beauty and light in the world if you just stop and take a look.

2. Do Things That Bring You Joy
The first and only rule here is absolutely no judgement! It doesn't matter if what brings you joy is scribbling a comic or two, baking delicious treats, watching trashy reality television or crocheting tiny outfits for your dog - indulge in it, enjoy every moment, and push any feelings of what you "should be" doing right out the door. Be kind to yourself, and give yourself permission to relax. When the rest of the world seems awful, it is worth taking time to do whatever it is that makes life enjoyable, in whatever way is necessary. I promise you, the fight will still be there tomorrow - and time spent filling yourself up with joy and light will allow you to tackle it with more energy and focus.

3. Connect with People Who Inspire You
If you spend enough time on the Internet, it's easy to start believing the worst of humanity is having the last laugh, especially when it comes to feminism. This is why it pays to seek out and connect with people who inspire you - whether they're friends, family, or people you've never even met. Take time to catch up with friends who value your spirit and the truth of your experience, connect with your family (the one you were born into or the one you've chosen for yourself), and reach out to the brave, bold people out there who inspire you to keep fighting each and every day. Perhaps it's a favourite author, maybe it's another activist or a leader in your community - take some time to drop them a line in some way, however small, and let them know that they've impacted your life. It will pay forward some major positivity - and who knows? Maybe one day you'll log on to find someone reaching out to share how you've inspired them!

4. Let's Get Physical
Exercise is fantastic for helping to work out excess frustration - it's like you can almost feel the rage sweating out your pores. So strap on your sneakers and engage in physical activity you actively enjoy. Don't force yourself to take part in anything you don't like; the best form of exercise is something you will actually do! Go for a long, brisk swim in the ocean, take a silly dance class (RetroSweat anyone?), or go for a hike and soak up the great outdoors - whatever you enjoy that will have you working up a sweat! When you feel powerless, taking time to focus on all the fantastic things you can physically do can be incredibly fulfilling... So get moving!

5. Make Time for Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the art of anchoring yourself to the present moment, and you can practice it in a number of ways. Probably the most well-known is through meditation. If you have yet to try it, there are plenty of apps that can help guide you through. Don't be frustrated if you don't get it right away - or even after months of practice! There is nothing to "get" - rather, it's about focusing on your experience in the here and now, and gently guiding yourself (without judgement) back to the present moment.

These are just a few ways to replenish your body, mind, and soul and bring you back to fine, feminist, fighting form. Take as much time as you need to feel strong and inspired again and when you're ready - and only then - get yourself back out in the fray and continue being the bold, badass activist you are. You've got this!

By: Siri Williams