In the first part of this series, we explored how bell hooks viewed self-care as an act of resistance. But there’s another side to this story—one that involves rejecting the shallow, commodified version of self-care we often see today.
Rejecting the consumerist approach
bell hooks cautioned against the commodification of self-care that is often pushed by capitalist culture. Buying expensive skincare products, booking spa days, or signing up for the latest wellness trend may feel good, but they don’t address the deeper needs of our spirit.
Capitalism tells us that if we’re burnt out or struggling, we can buy our way to wellness. But hooks argued that this is just another way for systems of power to exploit us. True self-care is about setting boundaries, saying no when necessary, taking time to rest, and finding joy in things that feed your soul—none of which can be bought.
Self-care doesn’t require a big budget. It requires time, space, and a commitment to your well-being. That might mean taking a walk, reading a book, or simply giving yourself permission to rest. These are all forms of care that nourish the spirit and allow us to resist the pressures of a society that prioritises productivity over people.
Intersectionality and self-care
Self-care becomes even more important when we think about it through an intersectional lens, a framework that bell hooks championed throughout her life. For people with multiple marginalised identities, the weight of oppression is heavier, and the need for care becomes more urgent.
hooks recognised that systems of power don’t just oppress us in one way. If you are a queer woman of colour, for example, you face sexism, racism, and homophobia all at once. The constant navigation of these oppressive forces takes a toll, and self-care becomes a critical practice in protecting your mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
The power of self-care
At the heart of hooks’ approach to self-care is the idea that we are all worthy of love, care, and protection. No matter what the world tells you, you deserve rest. You deserve joy. You deserve to heal. And by taking care of yourself, you are resisting the structures that tell you otherwise.
Self-care is not selfish. It’s not indulgent. It’s revolutionary. By nurturing ourselves, we reclaim our power—and that, in itself, is an act of radical resistance.
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