I recently watched filmmaker Ava DuVernay’s documentary on Netflix entitled 13th. It is a deep exploration of the criminalization of African Americans throughout history and how that criminalization led to the boom of the US prison system.
I had my eyes opened to so much that I wasn’t aware of. Did you know that the US holds five percent of the world’s population, but a staggering 25 percent of its prison inmates1?
There is so much more that I have to learn, that we have to learn about America’s history in order to help us change, heal, and move forward from so many injustices experienced by the black community.
It is crucial in these times, especially while doing this work of self-education, to take care of your mind, your heart, and your body. We must work to balance the heaviness around us with practices that keep us grounded. It is not possible to pour from an empty cup - if we want to be able to help anyone, we need to first heal and help ourselves.
So, after processing the things I had learned watching 13th, I decided to watch the new series of QueerEye. I love that show. It always warms my heart to witness the way those 5 guys transform people’s lives on a deep emotional level.
It’s something small for sure, especially after watching 100 minutes of facts, vivid depictions, and harrowing anecdotes of racial injustice all taking place in our backyard…
However, that small thing, that warmth I am able to feel in my heart keeps me grounded, empowered and reminds me of what I am capable of doing right now. And that will allow me to do my part in moving forward.
Here are some self-care practices for the days ahead:
Get Outside
It’s so important to move your body. Doing it outdoors is a great plus. I’ve been finding that cycling has been a great socially distanced exercise. And it’s a lot gentler on my knees than running.
Cry It Out
Sometimes a good cry really helps me let things out (the latter episodes of QueerEye - especially the one with Tyreek, I cried like a baby). I also have a sad songs playlist that will instantly turn on the waterworks. Release it - let it go!
Be Mindful
For me, mindfulness is maintaining a moment-by-moment awareness of my thoughts, the sensations I feel within my body, as well as my surroundings, through a gentle and nurturing lens. When we practice mindfulness, our thoughts tune into what we are experiencing in the present moment, rather than reliving the past or imagining the future. Acceptance, kindness, and curiosity are essential attributes to keeping our minds open. And having an open mind is not only important for ourselves personally, but how we see our ever-changing world - and girl, is it changing!
Drink Water
Our bodies are 60% water. So, it's really important to hydrate to regulate and maintain your body’s function. Your body uses water in all its cells, organs, and tissues and we lose water through breathing, sweating, and digestion. Now that summer is here, it is really important to remind yourself to drink more water to replace all that sweat! If you prefer, you can also add water-rich foods to your diet - watermelon, peaches, or strawberries - anyone?
Gratitude Journalling
Counting our blessings can increase the levels of joy and health we experience! The simple act of writing down 3-5 things that you are grateful for just a few times a week really helps can be so grounding. By thinking of the good things in your life as gifts, it guards against you taking them for granted. Have you tried it?
I hope these tips help you gently rebalance yourself as we move into summer. Stay safe and take care of yourself.
13th. Ava Duvernay, and Jason Moran. USA, 2016. Forward Movement, Kandoo Films.
Available for your viewing on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=krfcq5pF8u8