Happy Pride Month!
This is from my first Taiwan Pride. Taiwan is a safe hub for Queer folx in Asia and I’m proud to have lived their to watch it grow!
Happy Pride Month 2023!
Spare Room Wellness is proud to support our LGBTQIA+ clients, family, friends and fellow humans all year, but can you blame me for taking the chance to celebrate them a little extra this June?
What does Pride month mean to me?
While I don’t identify as part of the Queer community, I was raised to be a strong ally, and have only grown stronger as I’ve gotten older, wiser and more aware of my privilege. Pride month to me is a celebration of the folx in my life, and an acknowledgement just how much Queer folx have contributed to our culture over time. It’s also a time of reflection for me, as an ally, of what I can be doing to support our LGBTQIA+ siblings, brothers and sisters.
Pride and Mental Health
As someone working in the health and wellness space, I believe we have a responsibility to recognize and address mental health concerns within the Queer community as well as supporting cis and straight folx to recognize their privilege and their role in making the world a safer place. I would encourage other health and wellness workers to
Understand the Challenges Faced by Queer Individuals:
Stigma and Discrimination: The queer community often faces stigma and discrimination, leading to adverse mental health effects. It’s important to challenge stereotypes, promote inclusivity, and create a safe space for Queer individuals to discuss their experiences and seek support.
Internalized Homophobia and Transphobia: Many queer individuals struggle with internalized feelings of shame or self-doubt due to societal expectations. How can you promote self-acceptance, self-love, and authenticity to help individuals break free from the chains of self-judgment and cultivate positive mental well-being?
Minority Stress: Minority stress, resulting from prejudice and marginalization, can have a detrimental impact on mental health. Let's provide resources on coping mechanisms, stress management techniques, and self-care practices that specifically address the unique challenges faced by queer individuals.
Create strategies for Nurturing Mental Well-being in the Queer Community
Education and Awareness: Research and share information about mental health issues specific to the queer community. Educate yourself and your communities on LGBTQ+ terminology, mental health disparities, and available resources.
Promoting Self-Care Practices: Encourage self-care practices that promote mental well-being, such as mindfulness, meditation, journaling, and engaging in creative outlets. Highlight the importance of self-compassion and offer practical tips for incorporating self-care into daily routines.
What I’ll Be Doing
Catch me on Instagram celebrating Pride all month!
Check out Conversations with a Wounded Healer, a podcast I co-host. This month Sarah and I discuss Pride month, Pulse, Queer energy and a lot more!
Come hang at my yoga classes in Brighton where our themes this month will revolve around Pride and the lessons we can take from our Queer folx!
As always
If you’re struggling with mental health and looking for support, Get in touch to find out more about what I offer!
If you’re in Brighton, I’ll hope to see you on the mat. If you’re far away, I’ll look forward to hearing your feedback on the podcast and hearing from you on Instagram.
Until next week, take good care!
Anne
