Caring for Ourselves While We Care for Each Other
These are heavy days.
So much is happening—within our communities and across the world—and it can feel relentless. Many of us are paying attention, caring deeply, and doing what we can to show up, even as the weight of it all settles into our bodies.
The harm and outrage surrounding ICE in our communities, alongside so many other painful events unfolding globally, is deeply unsettling. This kind of ongoing stress doesn’t just live in the mind—it wears on the nervous system, leaving many of us feeling drained, tense, and overwhelmed.
And still, we are asked to keep going.
This is a gentle reminder that care is not separate from showing up—it’s what allows us to continue. When we tend to ourselves, even in small ways, we create the steadiness needed to remain present, grounded, and resilient.
If you’re feeling tired, heavy, or tender right now, you’re not alone. These times ask a lot of us. Care—for your body, your breath, your wellbeing—is part of how we sustain ourselves through it.
Below are a few simple, accessible ways to support your nervous system and tend to yourself through the day. None of these require extra time, special tools, or perfection. They are small moments—and small moments matter.
Sunset at the Gatherwise Farm
Rest—Whenever You Can
Rest doesn’t have to mean a full nap or a quiet afternoon (though those are beautiful if available to you).
Rest can be pausing for 30 seconds.
Sitting down instead of standing.
Letting your body soften where it can.
If you’re able, take a moment to sit or lie down, place one hand on your body, and feel your breath moving in and out. Let your nervous system know—even briefly—that it is safe to slow.
Breathe—Intentionally
Breathwork has become essential for me.
At any point in your day, try this:
Inhale slowly through your nose
Pause gently at the top
Exhale slowly through your mouth
Do this a few times with your eyes closed.
Long exhales help signal safety to the nervous system and can take the edge off anxious, wired energy almost immediately.
Relax Your Shoulders
Notice where you’re holding tension.
For many of us, it’s the shoulders—crept up toward the ears, braced without realizing it. Gently lower them. Roll them back. Let your neck soften.
This small adjustment can ease overall tension in the body more than we expect.
Brew a Calming Tea
There is something deeply regulating about warm herbal tea.
Throughout the day, reach for plants that support calm and grounding. Some of my favorites:
Chamomile
Kava
Skullcap
Lemon balm
Whether it’s one herb or a blend, let the act of brewing and sipping be a pause—a reminder that nourishment is available.
Ground Yourself - Simple Skincare Rituals
Your morning and evening skincare rituals can be moments of care that take less than a minute and still make a difference.
A gentle cleanse.
A spritz of toner.
A moisturizer or facial oil pressed into the skin.
These small acts remind the body that it is held, supported, and worthy of care. When done consistently, tiny rituals become anchors—especially in uncertain times.
Resting. A moment of care.
Tiny Moments Add Up
Each of these practices takes seconds to a minute. None of them are meant to fix everything. But together, they create steadiness. They help settle the nervous system so you can continue showing up—for yourself, and for your community.
Please remember:
Your body is carrying a lot.
Your heart is holding grief and care at the same time.
Your wellbeing matters.
Take care of yourself too. Stay tender. Stay grounded. And know that caring for yourself is one of the ways we remain strong enough to keep going.
With so much care,
— Melissa 🌿
