Self-Care Tips for Black Transgender Individuals during Black History Month

Hey There! As we prepare to celebrate Black History Month, I wanted to remind you to take care of yourself. This blog is vital to me because majority of the rejection and neglect I have endured has been from Black people.

So, how can Black transgender people take care of self during Black History Month?

Let's dive in and explore some self-care tips tailored to our unique experiences that I practice myself.

During Black History, I am very selective with what events I attend; I don't care who is going. My point here is to prioritize safety. Please celebrate, uplift, advocate, and all the things; however, let's not be naive; there is a lot of homophobia and transphobia still existing within black spaces.

My mental health is always also at the top of the list, but I spend more time paying attention during a sometimes activating month. Dealing with discrimination, prejudice, and the intersection of racial and gender identity can take a toll on mental well-being. I've been going to therapy for quite sometime; I would empower you explore therapy as a gift to yourself during Black History Month, even if its a support group that's for US by US. Lastly, practicing mindfulness, meditation, or engaging in activities that bring joy can help maintain peace and a positive mood. There are so many applications that help with meditation, I like to use Tripp on Oculus, Calm on Iphone, and Mirror which is now own by Peloton.

During Black History Month, I spend time learning. Learning is a form of self care. I do attempt to find Black spaces that are supportive and help me close the gap between being Black and being trans. Building supportive networks and connecting with others who share similar experiences can provide a sense of validation and understanding.

Fourth, self-expression is an important aspect of self-care for us. Exploring and celebrating one's identity through art, fashion, or other creative outlets can be empowering and affirming. Whether it's through writing or painting, expressing oneself authentically can be powerful form of self-care. My main form of self expression is tufting and journaling. I love writing it helps with getting things out of my head.

Fifth on my list of self care tips is boundaries. Setting boundaries and practicing self-compassion are crucial for maintaining emotional well-being. Setting boundaries may involve saying "no" to situations or people that are emotionally draining to protect your mental and emotional capacity. The other boundary is reminding people when you are ready to leave an event. If you have to leave before its over thats okay.

My last self-care tip is rest and relaxation. After engaging in events, I usually take a moment to unwind. Small moments of peace and quiet can be rejuvenating. Whether taking a long bath, reading a good book, or spending time in nature, finding moments of tranquility can be incredibly nourishing for the mind and spirit. Remember that if you are not rested, you are the best version of yourself at anything.

In conclusion, as we celebrate Black History Month, it's crucial to remember the importance of self-care for black transgender individuals. By prioritizing mental and emotional well-being, fostering community, setting boundaries, and embracing moments of rest, black transgender individuals can actively care for themselves during a significant time. Self-care is not a luxury, but a necessity. I know many of us will be engaging in the events and efforts put together by community leaders, but don't postpone caring for yourself while engaging.

I would love to hear other ways people take care of themselves. How do you care for yourself during Black History Month?