Self-care in the age of online activism
Activism in the digital age is a resourceful way to share important information quickly. But the reality of mental fatigue means we must take care of ourselves in the midst of engaging online. We must ensure we are operating from a place of health.
Photographer: Jonas Müller. Fashion Stylist: Lisa Maria Lohmann. Hair & Makeup: Tina Fischach. Retoucher: Shearer Viljoen. Model: Sara Mey.
The digital age has allowed activism to extend beyond face to face interaction in incredible ways. Through our phones, social media, and crowd-sourcing platforms, we are able to share vital information instantly. These resources help us to create the world we want to live in but we cannot contribute well if we are running on empty. Prioritizing our own health ensures we are available to be active and effective in online engagement.
Grace to Yourself and Others
We could all use a bit more grace. This grace is simply a kindness and mercy that we show ourselves and others when we interact online. Grace is foundational in self-care because it says that it is OK to grow; to change our mind; to change our stance; to change our heart. So what we share online, we do with restoration in mind. How we respond to comments, we do in a way that promotes a hearing of one another. The way in which we scroll and follow others, we do with a measure of care. The online world can be overwhelming because it is instant- we are trying to process information while scrolling onto the next post or opening a new browser window. One way that we can practice self-care is by digesting helpful content and sitting with it for a time before sharing only facts and honest reflections which are motivated by love.
‘Seek joy where it can be found.’
Remember Endurance
You have likely seen some variation of the phrase “Progress over Perfection” while scrolling through Instagram. The heart behind this message can keep our minds focused as we pursue justice. This is not a sprint. Be encouraged that using our voice, time, and resources to rally for an equitable world does not necessarily mean a fast resolution. We cannot read our way, post our way, or donate our way out of the inequities that plague our world. But we can commit to doing all that we are able to right where we stand. And as we do those things, together, we can be assured that we are making strides in the right direction. There is fortitude that is required of us: the ability to stay in the fight, to stand firm with others, and to be present. We do not have to forsake enjoyment in order to do this. Seek joy where it can be found. Take delight in the little things that inspire you to keep moving forward.
‘Grace is foundational in self-care- it says it’s OK to grow.’
Take Time to Rest
Rest is countercultural in a society that prizes productivity. We have become doers and place great value on accomplishments, but rest is important to our physical beings and our digital habits. Renewing our inner selves as we engage online allows us to stay connected with our “why” and what is most important to us. Practically, this may mean limiting screen time on all of our devices. Our online social worlds are expansive, allowing us to belong to virtual communities beyond our real-life connections. With that expanse comes an overwhelming opportunity to hear evermore opinions, perspectives, and views. Being intentional with how we absorb these is a practice that is developed by taking breaks away from online interactions. And if the thought of stepping back from online activism feels like retreat or indulgence, recognize that rest is not ours to give but received through faith, so we might reemerge at full strength.
In the old testament of the Bible, a prophet named Micah who shared a teaching from God, asks how God guides us to live; ‘What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.’ Micah 6:8 (NIV). This biblical teaching assures us that doing right by the world - loving one another through advocating - is central to how we live. We can find solace in the fact that social justice is a characteristic of faith in God. As such, God will continually equip us to do this work and we will not be overwhelmed. Our best self-care routine is rooted in justice, mercy and humility and inspired by God.
WORDS BY
Britnie Dates
