Compassion: Call to Action
When you think about the word “wellness”, what is the first thing that comes to mind?
Could be the romanticized (at times exhaustive) beauty, health, or fitness standards of upholding a perfected state of being physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually, environmentally, and socially “well” at all times…in a pandemic. A closer look at the word itself finds “we” at the forefront and for a good reason.
The universal mantra of pouring into yourself (self-care) so you can pour into others (community-care) is the epitome of wellness and proud to say, rooted in Black and Brown culture. These are the beacons of collective efforts towards encouraging and caring for your people (the story tellers, the legends, the original influencers) like the late Cicely Tison may she rest in power.
How can I show up?
There is a compassionate call to action that sparks inside all of us even when we are faced with unprecedented times ourselves, “how can I show up” in my own sphere within this even larger world of wellness? The most beautiful truth to wellness is, even your smallest effort is worlds to someone who needs it most. If you feel stuck, looking within to see how your passions can serve the collective is a great first step.
This could be simply checking in with your online community, your family, your workplace, or neighborhood to join in championing well-being in the form of mutual aid (community fridges, cold weather clothes drives, beach and park clean ups) to see where your unique talents can shine and lend a hand. You have so much to offer the world as the person you are right now.
Each month I write for Urban outfitters diversity and inclusion COMMITTEE, where we have transparent conversations about all things self care.