For all the beautiful parts of being queer, there are also some challenges we face. From microaggressions to systemic oppression to complicated family dynamics, we can easily become bogged down with stress or fall into shame spirals and isolation. None of it is our fault, but it is our responsibility to take care of ourselves in order to build the resilience we need to ward off these negative forces instead of internalizing them. Here are some queer focused self care strategies: 

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings: Before diving into self-care practices, it's essential to acknowledge and validate your feelings. Whether it's anger, sadness, fear, loneliness, or frustration, getting in touch with yourself and allowing yourself to feel and express your emotions is a crucial first step in self-care.

2. Find Your Safe Spaces: Cultivate environments where you feel safe, accepted, and supported. This may include LGBTQ+ community centers, sports leagues, book clubs, online forums, RuPaul watch clubs, support groups, or affirming social circles. Surrounding yourself with people who understand and celebrate your identity can provide a sense of belonging and validation.

3. Prioritize Physical Well-Being: Taking care of your body is an integral part of self-care. Engage in activities that promote physical health, such as regular exercise, nutritious eating, and sufficient sleep. Additionally, consider practices like yoga, meditation, or dance, which can help relieve stress and promote relaxation.

4. Establish Boundaries: Set boundaries to protect your mental and emotional well-being. It’s important to remember that other people can’t set your boundaries for you, it’s up to you to decide what aligns for you and what feels out of bounds.  Learn to say no to situations or relationships that drain your energy or compromise your values. Learn to prioritize your needs and communicate them to others, even if it makes others uncomfortable. Of course, it’s also important to make sure you are not putting up too many boundaries and isolating yourself or not pushing yourself to grow

5. Practice Self-Compassion: We all have that negative voice in our heads that wants to blame us for everything. Instead, practice being kind and gentle with yourself, especially in moments of struggle or setback. Self-compassion involves treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer to a friend facing similar challenges. Practice self-compassionate self-talk and engage in activities that bring you joy and comfort.

6. Seek Professional Support: Therapy can be a valuable resource for LGBTQ+ individuals seeking support and guidance. Look for therapists who specialize in LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy and create a safe space for exploring your identity, experiences, and emotions. Therapy can offer tools for coping with stress, managing emotions, and building resilience.

7. Engage in Activism: Channel your energy into activism and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and equality. Whether it's participating in protests, volunteering for LGBTQ+ organizations, or raising awareness on social media, activism can provide a sense of purpose and empowerment. 

8. Connect with Nature: Spending time in nature can have a calming and rejuvenating effect on mental health. Whether it's taking a leisurely walk in the park, hiking in the mountains, swimming in the ocean, or simply sitting outside and soaking up the sun, connecting with the natural world can help alleviate stress and promote emotional well-being.

Self care doesn’t come easy. It takes determination, and a holistic view of self. For LGBTQ people, self care is the foundation for building an authentic and happy queer life. When we have that solid foundation, we can begin to see all the wonderful parts of being queer - the ability to blaze our own path, be creative, express ourselves, and align our lives with who we authentically are. Start with the basics, and make sure you’re not doing it all alone. Find the right type of support, friends who validate you for who you are, and community that makes you feel at home. It takes work, and it’s worth it.