Self Care is an Act of Resistance.

How Bernie’s minor heart procedure serves as a reminder for all of us to be kind to ourselves.

photo via Bernie Sanders on Instagram

As many already know, Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders was admitted to the hospital a couple days ago after experiencing some chest discomfort, and had a stent inserted to provide relief for a clogged artery. Of course, campaign events were cancelled until further notice to give Bernie a little bit of time to rest, and likely some time to prepare for the upcoming debate after he heals as well.

While it was scary to hear the news, this is a minor procedure, and actually overall might be considered a sign of good health that he never needed this done until now at the age of 78. Nevertheless, it still serves not only as an incredible reminder of the number of sacrifices Bernie is making for the good of the people, but a gentle one for all of us to take care of ourselves as well. Ayanna Pressley’s tweet in regards to Bernie’s hospitalization included a line that sums it up best.

“Self Care is an act of resistance.”

Especially in times like these, when it’s easy to sink in to despair and feel as though there is no hope, it is more important than ever to to take care of ourselves as best we can. While mental health days are a luxury that so many of us can’t afford, even sitting in peace and quiet with a cup of tea or coffee for a few minutes in the morning before the day begins can be incredibly cathartic. Be mindful, aware of your bodies signals, and listen when it sends you a message. Do not feel ashamed to rest, or to take a moment to be still and away from the worries of the world whenever you feel the need to.

Our lives are fleeting and our health is often taken for granted. To devote our energy to healing if necessary is one of the most important things we can do.

Of course, learning about what he just went through prompted me to pause, and appreciate the sort of person that Bernie Sanders is as well. He has not only sacrificed precious time with his wife, kids, and grandchildren in the later years of his life in order to fight for the American people, but he’s put his health on the line as well. Yes, for him to take care of himself is yet another incredible act of resistance on his part, and I’m sure I speak for the vast majority of people when I say we want him to rest, heal, and then show us what he can do with a heart that’s once again working as efficiently as possible.

If Bernie was doing as well as he was with a clogged artery, imagine what he’ll be capable of now.

Let’s all follow Bernie’s lead, and remember to rest our bodies as well as our minds, engaging in an act of self care and resistance right alongside him. Be kind to yourself.