We made it through the whirlwind of the holidays and another election season. I don’t know about you, but I am exhausted. Dissatisfaction and dissent with the status quo have only grown louder, gaining traction like wildfire on dry grass (rightfully so, I might add!). Amid the chaos, social media has birthed movements like #softgirlera and #villianera, which prioritize self-care, boundary-setting, and generally doing what you gotta do to take care of yourself. This slow-living and take-no-s**** attitude emerged as a countermovement to grind culture and #girlbossing - more trends that encourage a hustle and bustle mentality. While this shift towards self-care holds some truths, there are additional angles we need to delve into.
The Cost of Capitalism
At its core, capitalism tells us to produce. Work hard enough and you’ll earn the life you dream of. But, reality doesn’t quite live up to that promise - I mean, have you seen the cost of eggs lately? Despite the rising costs of, well, everything, many of our paychecks can’t seem to keep up.
Capitalism perpetuates the myth that spending money equates to happiness and mental well-being. Luxurious spa days, expensive shoes, or gourmet meals are marketed as solutions to our stress. While these things can certainly be a form of self-care, they often fall short of addressing our deeper needs. Let’s be real: how much have those facial masks really improved your mental health?
This system perpetuates the very problem it claims to solve. No wonder so many of us are burnt out and broke! True self-care isn’t about consumption but rather about finding joy in the simple and often free moments of life.
Self-Care for the People
Self-care doesn’t need to come with a hefty price tag. Instead of buying the latest self-care, let’s focus on meaningful activities that nourish our mind, body, and soul. Ask yourself, What fills up my cup? Here are some no/low-cost ideas to get you started:
Journal
Dance like no one is watching
Take a break from screens
Go for a walk/reconnect with nature – yes, literally put your feet in grass
Cook your favorite meal (extra points if you share with loved ones!)
Take a nap
Create a budget
Express your emotions: cry, scream, or laugh
Call a friend and catch up
Even during heavy and sometimes hopeless times, meeting your basic needs is self-care. If all you managed today is to brush your teeth before climbing back into bed, give yourself credit. You’re doing your best and that’s enough.
Collective Care is Self-Care
Yet another lie capitalism perpetuates is the idea that self-care is a solitary act. “If I just focus on MY needs, I’ll feel better.” The truth is our well-being is interconnected. When we care for others, we also care for ourselves - it’s a beautiful cycle of reciprocity. So, what does collective care look like?
Organize a neighborhood block party
Join a book club
Host a watch party for a movie or show
Volunteer at a shelter, school, food bank - take your pick
Cook a meal for a sick friend
Offer a listening ear or shoulder to lean on
Redefining Self-Care
Self-care doesn’t have to be expensive or solitary. It’s about embracing what truly nourishes you and recognizing the value of interconnectedness. So go ahead: dance, cry, or call a friend. Let’s redefine self-care together, one meaningful moment at a time.
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