If we are to proactively engage with difficult topics, we must also take care of our own well-being.
This is particularly important during the current climate, with the cost of living crisis taking a physical and emotional strain on many of us.
Through self-care, we are better equipped to absorb challenging information and process it in ways which enables us to take positive action. In the words of civil rights activist Audre Lorde, “Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation.”
While self-care will look different for everyone, general tips such as connecting with friends and family, taking time to chat with others about less challenging topics, exercising and even drinking enough water are good places to start.
The small things
A few years ago, thanks to a project by Ort Gallery, Anawim was given some beautiful postcards designed by artist Sabba Khan entitled ‘Well-being in the time of Covid’ to hand out to the women we support.
These amazing piece have been translated in English, Arabic, Urdu and Polish.
Mindful engagement
As our 16 Days campaign draws towards the end, we ask you to reflect on the topics that have been raised but also to be mindful of your own emotional limits, especially if you have lived experience of these issues.
Preparing ourselves before engaging with challenging information, limiting how much information we consume in a day and taking self-care steps afterwards can help us to take part in difficult conversations while also looking after our own needs.
Support services
If you or someone you know needs support with any of the topics discussed during this campaign, our free, confidential helpline is open on 0330 0560 065 to anyone who identifies as a woman to talk with a specialist female caseworker. This can include support with mental health, finances, housing, families and relationships or anything else.