Self-care has gone mainstream! No longer is it a luxury reserved for wealthy women of leisure. It’s an essential part of keeping ourselves healthy. Read the following seven tips for self-care, and see which ones you want to adopt and which ones you’re (hopefully) already doing! 

1. Treat yourself. Black women can get so busy being the backbone of our community that we often put ourselves last. Show yourself some love by finding small ways to indulge in some pampering. Give yourself a facial, take a long bath, read a book – whatever makes you feel relaxed and renewed.
   
   
2. Get comfortable saying “no”. Every time you find yourself agreeing to something that you don’t want to do, you’re robbing yourself of precious time, energy, and joy. No apologies or excuses are needed. Give a simple, polite decline and get back to doing what feels right for you.
   
   
3. Give back. It’s important to share your blessings with your community – whether with time, money, knowledge or just an open mind and heart. Volunteer with charitable organizations that align with your interests and skills. Support local black-owned businesses. Attend a protest or a community outreach event. Be part of the change you want to see.
   
   
4. Connect with your loved ones. With issues of social injustice and racial inequality weighing on the black community, your friends and family may be dealing with emotional struggles that you don’t even know. Reach out to check in and see how your people are doing. Invite them to talk or simply let them know that you’re here to support them when needed.
   
   
5. Be prepared to let go. Life is a journey, and on that journey, people come and go. If you begin to feel that a relationship has run its course, give yourself grace and permission to cut ties. Life is too short to spend time with negative people who aren’t lifting you up. Your closest network should only include people who accept, respect, and cherish you.
   
   
6. Start journaling. Writing your thoughts and feelings is a healthy method of self-expression. Whether you’re working through a challenging time or just want to remind yourself that you are strong and fabulous, journaling can help you reflect and become more introspective.
   
   
7. Find productive ways to use your hands. Take a break from scrolling and clicking and get creative with your hands. Paint a picture, bake a decadent dessert, do some gardening or organize your favorite spot in your house. Creating beauty and organization around you will give you a mental boost and may even spread joy to others around you.