We’ve all heard the term “self-care,” but what does it really mean when we engage in representation, inclusion, and equity work in endurance sport and our lives? The prism through which we understand self-care is often tinted based on our identities. The urgency with which we engage in social justice work and the time we have available have profound effects on our ability to avoid burnout. This relationship between who we are, the work we do, and our time for self-care can evolve over time as our lives change and shift. Practicing self-care is important. It allows us to bring the attention back to ourselves and pay attention to our own needs. But many folx, especially those who work in the representation, inclusion and equity space, struggle to make time for their own needs.

Shaunna and Lisa explain that self-care for professionals working in or advocating for representation, inclusion, and equity is complicated and looks different for each person. For them, triathlon often provides a place of refuge. But when conversations around racial justice, inclusion, or equity start to make their way into our tri club meet ups -- as we feel they should -- it can put an additional toll on folx who are already doing this work in other areas of their lives.

Although these conversations are incredibly important, it is also important that we “pass the baton” of representation, inclusion and equity work, so folx who engage in this work in their professional lives can get the rest they need to stay in the work. Our goal should be to keep everyone in the fight, running at their own pace.

Our homework for this week is to think about our own self-care plan… and maybe that will include a few choice words for a cathartic release.

[un]phased is also wishing a very special Happy 10th Birthday to Shaunna’s oldest son, Trai! We hope you have an awesome day!