ABSTRACT
The author presents a four-step, integrated and interdependent process for self- and collective care which can be explored alone or with others, including colleagues as part of team development. They are practices that have been recommended and used effectively by activists and practitioners straddling the spheres of wellbeing and social change, and have a particular history within feminist movements. The process begins with breathing and self-compassion exercises as a foundation for all efforts at connecting with oneself and with others. It is followed by a series of exercises which encourage readers to explore their relationship to power and perfectionism; how they commit to and embody their values and beliefs and how they may create more open spaces for dialogue on mental health and personal struggle. The exercises will support practitioners to understand their own internalised biases and oppressions; integrate disowned qualities in themselves; and develop the courage to discuss the undiscussables – including power, gender and race as well as mental health. The practices are also designed to support readers with the necessary reflection and increased self-awareness required to address the guideposts on systemic change suggested in Chapter 5.
