On 26 January, it’s important to take time out, reflect, and look after yourself. This week we’re sharing supports and resources put together by VACCA's Aboriginal Healing team to help you maintain good emotional wellbeing, stay connected, and celebrate culture in the lead up to and on Survival Day.
We all experience Survival Day differently. Whatever your experience is, try to do something that helps you to find peace in yourself on the day.
- 26 January can be a tough, triggering time. Check in on your family, friends and colleagues - letting people know you’re there for them can help if they’re struggling.
- Think about taking a break from social media. Turning notifications off or having a technology-free day can help if you’re struggling or start to feel overwhelmed.
- If you’re online, keep a few good resources handy to share without expending your own emotional labor over again.
- Surround yourself with people who understand how you’re feeling. Have yarns with mob and family, call an elder, invite a friend over to celebrate Blak excellence, or join an online yarning circle.
- Taking part in Survival Day events like the march is a powerful and affirming experience, seeing so many mob and allies together.
- Turn up your favourite Koorie musicians, stream events like First & Forever Festival, or watch your favourite mob movies like The Sapphires or Bran Nue Dae.
- Deep breathing and mindfulness can help you stay present and centre your emotions if you start to feel overwhelmed.
Take care of yourself
In the lead up to Survival Day, take time to reflect on how you’re feeling. Check in with your emotional wellbeing and reach out to friends or family if you’re struggling.
- Have a plan for how you’ll spend the day. You might choose to spend time around other mob or take part in activities that make you feel closer to culture. Create art, take a walk on Country, surround yourself with your flags or listen to Koorie music.
- Create a ceremony or ritual which helps you. This might be smoking or smudging your house and self, taking a moment of mindfulness, or speaking to the ancestors to express gratitude for keeping us strong and still here.
- Headspace have some great mindfulness and guided meditation resources. Or, tune in to Dreamy to help quiet your mind by connecting to Country through storytelling.
Remember, help is available if you need it: Yarning Safe’n’Strong: 1800 959 563 or LifeLine: 13 14 11