“The definitive factors in determining whether someone is in good health extend significantly beyond access to care and include the conditions in their life and the conditions of their neighborhoods and communities.” — John Auerbach
Rethinking Self-Care
Whenever the topic of self-care comes up with friends or coworkers, it sometimes feels… well, a little privileged. Because honestly, not everyone has the time, money, or stability to make self-care a priority.
Working in the non-profit world, I see this every day. Burnout, low pay, and constant stress have almost become normal. I know I’m fortunate – I have some of the tools and support I need to take care of myself. But I’m also very aware that a lot of people don’t. And when you zoom out, you realize how much bigger systems, like unfair policies, economic inequality, and social unrest, shape our ability to “just practice self-care.” Sometimes that phrase feels disconnected from reality.
Self-Care and Access
It worries me when I hear well-intentioned advice like “try yoga,” “just meditate,” or “think positive.” Sure, those things can help – but they don’t fix deep-rooted social or economic struggles. For someone working multiple jobs, caring for family members, or deciding between rent and groceries, survival itself can be an act of self-care.
Arianna Huffington once said that not getting enough sleep hurts our health, our relationships, and our happiness. And she’s absolutely right. But the truth is, for many people, getting enough sleep isn’t a choice. It’s a privilege.
Meeting People Where They Are
So maybe, instead of rattling off one-size-fits-all self-care tips, we should slow down. Before offering advice, let’s take a moment to consider what someone’s life actually looks like – financially, emotionally, and socially.
Real self-care starts with understanding that access isn’t equal. The most caring thing we can do is meet people where they are, and support them in ways that make sense for their reality.
The Middle Slice 