Women take on so many roles within society and are often unfairly expected to do so without a lot of assistance. In addition to these multiple roles, the impact of historical systems of racism, discrimination and prejudice exacerbate the health of women of color. A lack of boundary setting, difficulty saying no, a need to nurture and an obligation of putting others’ needs before one’s own also contribute to the health and wellness of women of color. May is Women’s Health Month and provides an opportunity to focus on the self-care and health of women.
Woods-Giscombe (2010) describes a Superwoman Syndrome that acknowledges the accumulation of stress that African American women face which lead to disproportionately high rates of certain health conditions, including the following:
cardiovascular disease
autoimmune diseases
obesity
adverse birth outcomes
untreated or mistreated psychological conditions
This finding highlights the need to encourage better coping strategies for women to manage stress. During this month (and every day) consider the benefits of creating a routine of self-care:
Establish boundaries. Explore your relationships and consider where you can establish boundaries that will respect your needs. Take steps to remove toxic relationships from your life.
Say NO. Consider all of the obligations you have and participation in organizations and activities. Think about whether you need to end or modify your participation. Before saying yes to a request consider all of your other demands first and whether it makes sense to add another obligation that will take up your time and energy.
Prioritize your own needs. Remember that self-care is NOT selfish. Remember that in order to give to others we must also value and take care of ourselves.
Incorporate stress management interventions. If you do not already have a routine, consider adding in private time for yourself, massage or reiki, energy work, mindfulness, art, journaling, exercise. Choose activities to replenish yourself. The important message to remember is to protect time for yourself.