A few months into the pandemic, we subscribed to the Radish Kids Cooking Kit. Each box contains three recipes, as well as cards with dinner conversation starters, and it brings us so much joy – I love our family cooking time! We also like to enjoy family meal time and enjoy our work. —Jaspreet C., South Asia, Maryland
7. Playing with the puppy
I recently got a puppy, which means more walking and more focus on this cute fluffy baby . Every day my puppy teaches me how to be more present, how to breathe. This calmed my heart and gave me much needed peace. It reminds me that we are part of something bigger and stronger. —Edwith T., Haitian American, Blake, Florida
Over the past few months we have had a second puppy and she has been a missing part of our little family. We didn’t plan for her or go looking for a new dog. We saved her, and honestly, she saved me. When the world around me seems to be falling apart, and of course in those low points where I can’t seem to take care of myself, there is something to take care of and nurture that iseverything. — Shanequa D.
8. An adventure in fresh air
I have been a moped and motorcyclist for over six years and it has been one of the greatest joys of my life. Riding on two wheels through a city or park, capturing the sights and sounds of my surroundings, feeling the wind blowing through my body – it really gave me a sense of freedom and control. — Diana R.
9. Finding strength in the backyard
I know a lot of people who love gardening, but that was never me. However, when I’m outside doing yard work, I find myself lost in my own thoughts and grateful for what I have – almost like a form of meditation. Pulling weeds, for example, is very peaceful. When I pull them out, it’s as if I’m expressing my intent — I’m imagining my role as a reproductive health advocate, removing unnecessary barriers to access to abortion care in bilingual and Hispanic Latin communities. — Zipatly M., Mexican-Latino, Georgia
10. Rest, take your time
This may sound counterintuitive because we are currently in a time when things are so crazy and pressing, but I’ve really been thinking about whether I need a Building a better world little by little. I’ve seen so many reproductive rights and justice advocates burn out prematurely in their careers (I’ve experienced it myself), and I think approaching things slowly, calmly, and thoughtfully can help meet the needs there, while at the same time Also make work sustainable. I’ve always been aware of my tendency to overextend myself, and I’ve increasingly resisted the urge to do so. — Kimya F. , Middle East, Washington, DC
I passed Use embodying as a tool of liberation to practice hope. With rights disenfranchised, we may feel that we have little control over our bodies. Through the concrete practice of listening to my body, pausing, resting, acknowledging the changes I feel in my body, and bringing my attention back to myself, I remember how I was free. Specifically, as a black person, it’s important for my survival to be in touch with myself at all times – and that also means not letting my body drop to the point where I can’t hear or feel it. Rest is my birthright. — Sabia W., Black, GA
11. Playing card games
Uno games have brought so much joy into my life lately, it amazes me, it makes my energy more positive. It also gives me mental space to be creative and hopeful in finding solutions and ways to fight the “garbage fire” we’re in right now. — Camden H.
12. Throwing a prom for one person
Overall, I’m not a hopeful person, however, I’ve been trying to prevent myself from falling into desperate work hours by attending prom occasionally in my living room. No one else was invited – just me, Spotify and my crappy dance moves. Music and dancing make me happy; they always have. The world is able to disappear for a moment; I don’t have to think about anything but the beat, and my body can move the way it wants, not the forced robotic movements required for the workday. It was a brief, stolen moment of happiness and freedom. — Kristine K. , Black Caribbean, Washington, DC .
related:
- Black Lives Matter co-founder Patrisse Cullors: “Social justice starts with self-care”
- How to Support Abortion Funds: Gas Cards, Amazon Wish Lists, and More
22 The way I experience joy as a black mother
