Black women worldwide differ by skin shade, background, language, and country of origin. But they are united by the irreplaceable role they play in their communities, nurturing families with love, and cultivating the growth of their neighborhoods with wisdom and strength.

Yet, it is widely known that black people, especially black females, have been objects of discrimination and repression. For centuries, they have been treated as less than human, suffering from systematic violence and forced labor, and stripped of their identities. Even now, when slavery is long abolished, and everyone shouts about equality, Black women have to fight for their rights. The racism and sexism that keep flourishing in our modern world affect Black women from generation to generation.

Dr. Robert T. Carter captured it in a concept called race-based traumatic stress, which describes mental and emotional harm inflicted by racism. This form of trauma can be as detrimental as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Racism frequently manifests itself in ignored medical care pleas, discrimination at the workplace, and poor living conditions. Each of these injustices can lead to stress and health deterioration. That is why Black women must know how to care about themselves and each other. Therein lies the very purpose of radical self-care.

Radical self-care entails prioritizing your well-being in the first place, taking care of your mind, body, and soul, and recognizing how deeply they are interconnected. Neglecting one aspect affects the others, so self-care must be an integral part of your everyday life. Radical self-care primarily assumes spiritual self-care, where you nurture your inner being, connecting with the outside world and faith to find fulfillment, peace, and motivation.

Next goes mental self-care, which shapes your overall well-being, influencing emotions, body, and memories, often carrying the weight of past experiences. Luckily, our brain can deal with it through neuroplasticity––an ability that allows you to rewire thought patterns and cultivate self-love. And finally, physical self-care. The human body preserves the memories of emotions and experiences, reacting to stress with fatigue and headaches. Paying attention to its needs, like nourishment or rest, is vital. Otherwise, the health struggles and stress will degrade.