First, what is self-care? Living in a Mexican household, self-care may or may not exist! In fact, our parents, grandparents, siblings, and ourselves are always working because let's be honest, we live in a capitalist society; a society where if we aren't working, it is believed that we are not using our time wisely. However, I am here to tell you how self-care impacts our wellbeing and productivity. We are not machines. We have thoughts, feelings, emotions, stress, and more. It is important to take time for ourselves. We give life to others, why not to ourselves?
Everyone interprets self-care differently. It could be getting a manicure and pedicure, facials, gym time, getting a new hairstyle, and the list goes on. Today, we are talking about self-care, anti-capitalist style! This type of self-care activities will cost you $0- to $5 dollars and you can do it all in your home! That's right. Here are a few ideas!
Get creative! Check out Rosanna Alvarez’s Citlalirose website! This is a great source to let our creativity flow. “Citlali Rose embraces personal power through creative inspiration while centering culture, creativity, and well-being.” - Founder and Creator Rosanna Alvarez. This coloring activity can enhance creativity and relieve some stress.
Peace out Social media! Log off social media and use that time to meditate, focus on your breathing, think about “what gives me life” is it food, family, friends, alone time, music, poetry, and the list can go on. Take an intentional rest day/break (5 min - 1hr), stay hydrated, eat good, fuel your body and mind.
Sip & Mask! We love golden hour because of how our skin looks! Why wait until golden hour when you can have your own fabulous hour? Sip tea some tea to relax and create a face mask! Here are two links that share recipes on how to make your own masks! While your mask is drying, you can drink your tea, create words of appreciation for yourself, read a book, and/or jam out to your favorite songs.
Home remedies most of our Latinx households already have for facial masks!
Recipes for our beautiful skin
I hope that you can take the time to take care of yourself. It's easier said than done but remember there is only one of you! At first, self-care time can feel weird, but that's totally normal and slowly we will adjust to making it a norm to have “me time”. At least that's how I felt and still feel. Everything is at your own pace, no need to stress. Lastly, I am inviting you to join me twice a month on Wednesday to get our Wellness on, this includes positive self-love activities.
About the Author
Claudia Fabian (She/Her)
Fabulous, first-generation student majoring in Sociology at the University of California, Berkeley. While navigating such institutions, she carries her family and Oaxaqueña roots closely to remind her to push through! During the school year she is a full-time student, BUILD a literacy themtor, and occasionally makes videos on Youtube. Her challenging educational journey has instilled a drive to help others. She is interested in pursuing a career in Education and helping increase the route of higher education for marginalized groups. She aspires to be a community leader and help students see their full potential and capabilities while exposing students and families to resources.