Prioritizing Self-Care in Our Communities
As individuals from racialized communities, the relentless pursuit of excellence can be incredibly exhausting and burdensome. It is crucial that we grant ourselves the grace and self-compassion needed to rest and recharge, rather than pushing ourselves to the brink of exhaustion and beyond. Taking time to process, rejuvenate, and refuel on a regular basis is essential for our overall health and ability to thrive in a world that often demands more than we can bear.
Managing Burnout in Our Communities
Burnout is an all-too-common reality in both the private and public sectors, with racialized employees and business owners often feeling expendable. As a racialized individual, the pressure to constantly perform at peak levels can be overwhelming, leading to physical and mental exhaustion. It's crucial to acknowledge and embody this powerful statement by Audre Lorde: “Self-care is not a luxury; it is a necessity.” If we neglect our own well-being, who will prioritize it for us? It's time for us to reclaim our health and wellness, recognizing that we are deserving of rest and care.
Read that again.
Brother, Sister.
You are deserving of rest and care.
No, not just tomorrow.
No, not just next week.
But today.
Right now.
No more delay.
Waiting until retirement to finally prioritize our bodies' needs is a disservice to ourselves. Instead of working tirelessly to cover bills and meet obligations, we must prioritize our health and well-being as a community to prevent burnout. Working non-stop without adequate physical or mental breaks can take a toll on our adrenal system and cause emotional suppression, ultimately affecting our physical health, relationships, and overall quality of life. By implementing strategies to manage burnout and prioritize self-care, racialized communities can maintain their well-being and thrive in whatever space we choose to occupy.
We must also recognize that our next generation is watching us. We need to model what health and wellness look like today so that our future generations and communities can learn what it means to occupy their own spaces tomorrow. This is a constant learning and unlearning process for all of us, so don’t worry—you are not alone in this.
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it's essential for individuals from racialized communities to prioritize their well-being and practice self-care.
I Am Worthy of Rest: A Reflection on Black Excellence Fatigue
I am a mom. I am an entrepreneur. I am a therapist. I am a daughter. I am a sister. I am a wife. I am a friend. I am a lifelong learner. And above all, I am worthy of rest.
In the whirlwind of responsibilities and expectations, there are times when I feel guilty about setting some of these roles aside, even for just a moment. However, I have come to understand firsthand that rest is essential. Self-love, self-care, and self-compassion are paramount and non-negotiable, especially for those of us navigating the challenges of racialized identities and the pressures of Black excellence.
I must be my biggest advocate. There will always be a to-do list, always someone who needs my support. But if I am a burnt-out mess, I can’t be of benefit to anyone—least of all myself. It's time to acknowledge that we cannot pour from an empty cup. We need to pour out from an overflow.
As we strive for excellence in our various roles, we must also prioritize our well-being. Let’s remind ourselves that taking a step back to rest and recharge is not an act of weakness; it is a powerful declaration of our worth. We deserve to honour our needs and reclaim our energy so that we can show up fully for ourselves and our communities.
So, let’s embrace the idea that we can be high achievers while also being gentle with ourselves. Let's break the cycle of guilt surrounding rest and recognize it as a critical component of our journey toward true excellence. Remember, we are worthy of rest.
Here are some practical steps to help you recharge and rejuvenate:
1. Take Breaks: Carve out moments during your day to pause and reset. Avoid "working lunches" and instead take time for yourself to enjoy a well-deserved break. Practice deep breathing, go for a short walk, or listen to music or an audiobook to destress.
2. Schedule Enjoyable Activities: Plan enjoyable activities throughout your week to uplift your spirits. Whether it's playing dominoes with friends, watching a movie, or dancing with a partner, make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
3. Eat Well: Assess your nutrition habits and identify areas for improvement. Focus on consuming more water, vegetables, and fruits to nourish your body. Implement small, manageable changes to promote a balanced and healthy diet.
4. Prioritize Sleep: Make sleep a priority and listen to your body's signals. If you're feeling tired, allow yourself to rest and recharge. Quality sleep is essential for overall well-being and productivity.
5. Connect with Your Spiritual Beliefs: If you are spiritual, take some time to connect with God. This can help rejuvenate not only the mind but also the soul. This can be done through prayer, meditation, music, or reading spiritually based materials.
6. See a Professional: Take proactive steps to care for your physical and mental health. Schedule regular visits with your family doctor for check-ups, consult a naturopath for energy-related concerns, or treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage. Consider setting up psychotherapy sessions to prioritize your mental well-being. If available, utilize benefits for healthcare services and ensure they are not wasted. Alternatively, set aside a portion of your budget for a wellness fund to invest in the care and support you deserve.
Conclusion: A Call to Action for Racialized Communities
Brother, sister, this is OUR call to action. By incorporating these self-care practices into our daily routines, we can truly begin to cultivate a holistic approach to wellness and enhance our overall quality of life. We do not have to wait to rest. In fact, we owe it to ourselves to do it now.
About the Author:
Felicia Fischhoff is a dedicated Jamaican-Canadian Registered Psychotherapist and the proud owner of Rooted in Resilience Psychotherapy & Wellness, a thriving group practice located in Markham, ON, with virtual services available throughout Ontario. As a mother of two beautiful boys, Felicia understands the importance of creating a nurturing and supportive environment for families and individuals alike.
With over a decade of experience, Felicia has worked extensively with families in low-income communities and has specialized in supporting survivors of sex trafficking. Her diverse background equips her with a unique perspective and deep empathy for her clients.
Felicia is passionate about addressing a wide range of mental health concerns, including trauma, racial trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, grief, intimate partner violence, relationship issues, and family of origin challenges. She is committed to empowering her clients to heal, grow, and thrive by fostering resilience and promoting self-discovery in a safe and inclusive space. Through her work, Felicia aims to cultivate a sense of connection and belonging for all individuals seeking support on their mental health journey.
Comments