Sleep and journaling can be great forms of self-care. (Isabella Cantillano-Sanchez)
By Isabella Cantillano-Sanchez
Working hard is important whether you are a student or a professional (or both), but it is vital to remember to take care of yourself as you work toward accomplishing your goals. Neglecting self-care can lead to burnout and negative consequences for your mental health, making obligations difficult to fulfill.
The term “self-care” has become increasingly commercialized and merged with the idea of a beauty routine, but “self-care” as we conceptualize it today found its origins amongst black feminist thinkers in the 1960s as a radical act of self-love in the midst of sociopolitical turmoil. In her essay collection “A Burst of Light,” writer and activist Audre Lorde had this to say about self-care, “Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.” I think that in the political climate we currently live in, people should be more committed to self-care than ever.
For me, the ultimate act of self-care is consuming media that inspires me as well as creating art of my own. Films, television shows, art, fashion, and books have always been my refuge when the world around me feels hostile. Being inspired helps me realign my priorities and recommit myself to working hard so that I can accomplish my ultimate goal, which is to make my own artistic contributions to the world. Films especially allow for escapism that feels necessary when I feel overwhelmed. Creating, particularly writing, is also a form of escapism for me that helps me through periods of darkness.
I asked students at Cape Cod Community College how they practice self-care in the hopes of providing the readers of this article some ideas on how to better take care of ourselves. Derek Stewart responded, “I like to work out and then do some meditation. Breathing techniques.” Jupiter Haughey responded, “I mean, I’m an artist so I just draw. Under any duress, I just draw.” Meghan Cress responded, “Sleep.” Viridiana Ibarra responded, “I sing.” These responses suggest that self-care doesn’t require purchasing certain products in order to practice it. All that is required is time set aside for yourself to do something that brings you comfort.
