Self-Care is Justice: A Recap of Self-Care Recharge – Mind and Soul
In a rejuvenating event, Lighthouse Foundation opened the doors to holistic wellness with Self-Care Recharge: Mind and Soul. Held on Saturday, April 22, in Lincoln Park, the event aimed to provide attendees with pampering, unity, and communal rejuvenation.
Jade Bosier, a Black LGBT(Q)+ Caucus leader, set the tone for the event with a warm welcome: "When you walked in through that door, we are now cousins. We're here to pamper you, okay?" The room responded with laughter, cheers, and applause. "We're here to give some self-care [and] mindfulness to you," Jade continued. "This is our time to give back to the community." Her words encapsulated the essence of the gathering – a space dedicated to nourishing the mind, body, and spirit of Black LGBTQ+ individuals as an act of organizing and justice.
Since our inaugural retreat in 2022, Self-Care Recharge has continued to be one of our most popular programming series. Its popularity speaks volumes about the community's need for spaces that promote emotional well-being, foster healthy communal practices, and introduce new avenues for self-care. At our organization’s core, our approach to spirituality is all-encompassing, recognizing its value in enhancing the overall quality of life for Black Queer Chicagoans.
This iteration of Recharge was dedicated to cultivating mindfulness, a practice that holds the power to anchor individuals in the present moment and instill a sense of tranquility. The space was packed with attendees, all of who were treated to an array of soul-nurturing experiences, including energy healing sessions, open conversations about mental health, invigorating group wellness activities, and serene meditation moments. These experiences were a testament to our belief that self-care is not just an act of personal nourishment, but a tool for empowerment and justice.
The event was far more than a gathering; it was a conduit for spiritual rejuvenation and revitalization. We believe that feeling mentally and spiritually well is essential for the holistic health of Black LGBTQ+ Chicagoans, which is why Recharge was intentionally created to foster renewal on multiple levels: physical, mental, and spiritual.
"[I loved] how I was able to open up and connect with others who may also be going through the same issues as myself," shared one attendee.
"Seeing all that beautiful Blackness in one place," added another, "It fills my soul."
Self-Care Recharge reminds us that spaces dedicated to self-care, renewal, and shared experiences are essential components of building resilient and empowered communities. With each event, attendees not only recharge their spirits, but also embody our organization’s vision of unity, empowerment, and the transformative power of self-love.
