35 Continue to tend to yourself

If you have already engaged with the guided meditation video and the reflection questions in this section it is now a good time to take a break. Absorbing the information in this Pressbook in a lasting and meaningful way takes time. Also, engaging in sustainable anti-Black racism advocacy requires regular self-care.

Remember that when you are ready to continue to the next few chapters, you may always return to this section as needed.

More Self-Care Tips:

• Seek support from mental health services: Consider reaching out to mental health professionals if you need support. Many universities and organizations offer discounted counseling services that can provide a safe space to discuss your feelings.
• Join a support group: Joining a support or advocacy group can offer a sense of community and shared understanding. Look for groups focused on anti-racism work or those supporting Black communities at your school, workplace or home community.
• Engage in meditation and mindfulness: Guided meditation sessions to help calm your mind and reduce stress. You can find Apps and Youtube videos that offer specific meditations for relaxation and self-care. Incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily routine.
• Move your body: Engaging in physical activity promotes a reduction in stress hormones
• Breathe: Deep and intentional breathing is also a form of self-care that promote overall health and wellness. There are a variety of smartphone Apps, smartwatch Apps, podcasts and online videos to help guide you. Check out Black Girls Breathing for guided breathwork tools to share with your Black friends and colleagues
• Listen to Sound Therapy:
  • Music and Sound Baths: Listen to music that soothes and uplifts you. Sound baths, which use specific tones and frequencies to promote relaxation, can also be beneficial. You can find sound bath recordings on platforms like YouTube and Spotify.
  • Nature Sounds: Nature sounds, such as ocean waves, rain, and forest ambiance, can help create a calming environment. Use these sounds during your study sessions or breaks.
• Listen to a Podcasts for Self-Care: Listening to podcasts can be a great way to engage with self-care practices and learn from others’ experiences. Here are some recommended podcasts that focus on self-care, mental health, and empowerment:
  • Therapy for Black Girls: A podcast hosted by Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, dedicated to mental health and personal development for Black women and girls.
  • The Self-Care Project:  A podcast by Jayne Hardy who focuses on various self-care techniques and the importance of prioritizing your well-being.
  • Radiant Rest: A podcast by Tracee Stanley, dedicated to supporting women of colour in achieving meaningful self-care
  • Mindfulness with Minaa: A podcaste by Minaa. B who offers guidance on how individuals may live with intention and develop healthy relationships with themselves and others
  • Unlocking Us with Brené Brown: Explores themes of vulnerability, courage, and empathy, providing valuable insights for personal growth (Brown, n.d.).