In The Community
What is self-intimacy?
Normally when we think of intimacy, we think of relationships with partners or sex. Self-intimacy can take the form of many things, but we’re viewing it as a form of radical self-care to reflect on your inner thoughts and emotions regarding who you are and the joy you feel about where you are in life.
Self-intimacy can be painful, as it requires taking the time to become more aware of your feelings and taking part in acts of service to care about those feelings. It’s not easy because it requires you to face your demons and challenge the unhealthy behaviors you might use as a coping mechanism for the things that don’t bring you joy in life.
Investing in self-intimacy is important to be able to understand your relationship with yourself and also with the people and things around you. It’s an important part of being a partner since it helps you learn more about yourself and express your findings with your loved ones.
Becoming comfortable with feeling how you feel enables you to tap into those reservoirs of self-love you might not even be aware you’re capable of having. No, this doesn’t mean becoming obsessed with yourself (although, why not?), but rather being able to recognize your own emotions and act in service of those emotions to make yourself happy. This includes taking a step back to assess a situation and your feelings towards it before reacting, enabling you to do better and be better in relation to yourself as well as others.
Mila Kunis GIF - Find & Share on GIPHYGiphyIt also means recognizing toxic patterns of behavior and implementing acts to break them, as well as setting boundaries within relationships. Ask yourself questions such as “Do I enjoy being with these people?” and “Am I allowing myself to really connect with others to be treated the way I’d like to be treated?” These might be hard to confront but ultimately result in your understanding of the love you deserve and accept into your life. Knowing you’re worthy of quality love enables you to attract it in all aspects.
Being vulnerable with yourself allows you to be more vulnerable with others. Being honest with yourself will allow you to be more honest with others. Meditate on questions centered around your solitude – do you like being alone? Are you comfortable with it? Are you empowered by your own presence? If not, you could be having issues spending time with yourself, which is always a no-go. Feeling comfortable alone without feeling lonely is an empowering emotion that only enables you to value the company of others even more.
Self-intimacy also allows you to learn more about what empowers you and makes you feel like a confident, sexy person. Sexy meaning being someone that excites you and arouses all the right parts of you – you really can do all bad by yourself, we promise! Confidence like this will allow you to discover your true sexual energy and what you like.
In short, self-intimacy is sitting with yourself to know more about who you are. Understanding that you’re worthy of love, worthy of knowing yourself to be better, feeling confident, and discovering your sexual energy are all worth looking into! You got this, mija!
Treat Yourself Donna Meagle GIF by Parks and Recreation - Find & Share on GIPHYGiphyHow can I practice self-intimacy in my day-to-day?
Ready to nurture and pamper your inner self every day? Here's your essential checklist to keep handy:
- Redefine Intimacy: Think beyond romance. Picture self-intimacy as a transformative journey of self-discovery, shedding light on your inner world.
- Embrace the Emotional Workout: Like spring cleaning for the soul, sort through your feelings. Keep the joy, toss the junk.
- Invest in Your Inner World: It’s emotional homework that pays off big time. The better you know yourself, the richer your connections with others become.
- Own Your Emotions: Understand and navigate life from a space of clarity. Pause, reflect, and act with intention.
- Break Self-Sabotage: Identify patterns that hold you back. Do you vibe with your circle? Are you settling for less than you deserve?
- Ask the Tough Questions: Dive deep. Ponder about solitude – is it comforting or unnerving? Find peace in your own company to deepen connections with others.
- Raw & Real = Golden: Honesty with yourself is a direct path to forming genuine connections with others.
- Find Your Sexy: No, not just that kind. The confidence, the energy, the magnetic pull that says you’re the lead in your life’s story.
- Discover the Joy of Solitude: Recognize the beauty of being content in your own company. That peace makes shared moments even more special.
- Celebrate Yourself: At the end of the day, self-intimacy is about realizing you’re kind of a big deal. Dive in, and discover the magic that’s uniquely you. Cheers to the journey!
- The Complete List Of Must-Watch Latino Films from the 37th SXSW Film Festival ›
- From Reggaeton to Real Talk: 5 Must-Hear Latine Podcasts ›
- On Track for 2024: Strategies to Achieve Your Goals - Luz Media ›
- Self Care Practices To Try This Summer - Luz Media ›
- 10 Ways to Spread Kindness to Others—and Yourself - Luz Media ›
Medical Advancements Are Crushing It
Photo by Ani Kolleshi on UnsplashFrom groundbreaking cancer treatments to innovative approaches to mental health, 2024 has been a banner year for medical science. Advances in AI-assisted healthcare and precision medicine are making treatments more accessible and personalized. Every new breakthrough is a reminder of how far we’ve come and how much potential the future holds.
Renewed Focus on Mental Health
Photo by Marcel Strauß on UnsplashSpeaking of health, can we appreciate how much mental health is getting the attention it deserves? More workers feel satisfied with the mental health support they’re receiving from employers, therapy apps are thriving, and conversations about anxiety, burnout, and well-being are no longer taboo. It feels like society is finally getting that taking care of your brain is just as important as your body.
Communities Are Coming Together
Photo by Hannah Busing on UnsplashWhen times get tough, people show up. Whether it’s mutual aid groups, neighborhood initiatives, or friends checking in more often, there’s been a noticeable push toward reconnecting with the people around us. It’s a great reminder that no matter what’s happening, we’re going through it together.
Creativity Is Thriving
Photo by laura adai on UnsplashFrom indie films and breakout music artists to TikTok creators absolutely crushing it with their originality, 2024 has been a goldmine for creative expression. People are finding new ways to tell their stories and connect with others, proving that art is as alive and essential as ever.
Technological Wins Worth Celebrating
Photo by Markus Spiske on UnsplashSure, tech gets a bad rap sometimes, but 2024 has brought us some seriously cool stuff. AI is being used to tackle real-world problems like education gaps and environmental issues. Virtual reality is connecting people in ways that were unimaginable a few years ago. Even smart home gadgets are making life easier (hello, robot vacuums!).
Small Wins in Everyday Life
Photo by Jeremy Bishop on UnsplashGratitude doesn’t always have to be about the big stuff. It’s the tiny joys—finding a new coffee shop, a text from a friend out of the blue, or your favorite song playing on shuffle—that remind us life is still pretty sweet. These little moments of happiness add up in ways we don’t always notice, but we should.
The Power of Learning and Growth
Photo by Mohamed B. on UnsplashWhether you’ve taken up a new hobby, learned something fascinating online, or just figured out how to make a better cup of coffee, personal growth is something to celebrate. In 2024, more people are prioritizing learning as a way to stay curious, connected, and hopeful about the future.
You’re Still Here
Photo by Matthew Hamilton on UnsplashLet’s not forget the most important thing: you’ve made it through another year. Even when it’s hard, even when you’re tired, you’ve shown up for yourself and the people you care about. That alone is worth being grateful for.
Sure, life can feel overwhelming, but there’s always a silver lining if we look for it. Gratitude doesn’t mean ignoring the hard stuff—it means holding space for the good alongside it. So, as we move forward, let’s take a second to appreciate these bright spots and keep reminding ourselves it’s not all doom and gloom.
Check the Weather, But Be Ready for Anything
Photo by Vlad Bagacian on UnsplashWeather can change in a flash, especially if you’re hiking in mountainous areas. While it’s important to check the forecast before you go, make sure you’re prepared for anything nature throws your way. Pack a lightweight rain jacket or windbreaker, even if it looks sunny, and wear layers so you can adapt to the temperature as you go.
Pack Smart but Don’t Overdo It
Photo by Timo Stern on UnsplashYou’ll need the essentials, but carrying too much weight can slow you down and make the hike less enjoyable. Stick to the basics: water, snacks, sunscreen, a map (or a fully charged phone with GPS), and a small first-aid kit. If you’re planning a longer hike, consider bringing a headlamp, an extra layer, and some extra food. Think about the “10 Essentials” of hiking—navigation, sun protection, insulation, illumination, first aid, fire, repair tools, nutrition, hydration, and emergency shelter. You don’t have to bring a ton, but these basics can be customized to fit your hike.
Break In Your Shoes and Wear Good Socks
Photo by Marc Pell on UnsplashNothing can ruin a hike faster than painful blisters, so make sure your shoes are broken in before hitting the trail. Wearing shoes that haven’t been tested on a hike is a recipe for sore feet! Pair them with moisture-wicking, cushioned socks to keep your feet dry and comfortable. Trust us, your feet will thank you by the end of the day. Also, bring a few bandages or blister pads just in case. And don’t be afraid to take a break and adjust your socks if your feet start feeling hot spots—catching blisters early can save you a lot of pain!
Stay Hydrated and Snack Often
Photo by Bluewater Sweden on UnsplashIt’s easy to underestimate how much water you’ll need on a hike, but staying hydrated is essential. Bring enough water for the whole hike, and consider a hydration pack if you don’t want to keep stopping to reach for your bottle. Don’t forget snacks, either—nuts, granola bars, or dried fruit are perfect for keeping your energy up on the trail. Electrolyte tablets or powder are great for long hikes, so keep that in mind. They help replenish the salts you lose through sweat, keeping you energized and ready to tackle those uphill climbs.
Know the Trail (And Have a Backup Map!)
Photo by Denise Jans on UnsplashGetting lost on the trail is no one’s idea of a good time, so study the trail map before you go, and pay attention to trail markers as you hike. If you’re hiking a longer or more remote trail, download an offline map to your phone or carry a paper map. It’s always good to have a backup in case your phone dies or loses signal. Apps like AllTrails and Gaia GPS are great for trail maps and often have reviews from other hikers that provide tips on conditions, difficulty, and must-see spots. Also, download your map for offline use so you’re covered, even without cell service.
Start Early and Pace Yourself
Photo by Onni Anttoora on UnsplashStarting early has a few perks: cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and more time to enjoy the views. Plus, if you’re on a longer trail, getting an early start means you’ll have more time to take breaks and soak in the scenery. And remember—pacing yourself is key to avoiding burnout, especially on steeper trails. Hiking isn’t a race, so find a pace you’re comfortable with and take breaks to take your surroundings in. That’s where the magic is at!
Respect Wildlife and Leave No Trace
Photo by Transly Translation Agency on UnsplashHiking is about connecting with nature, and part of that is respecting the plants and animals you encounter. Admire wildlife from a distance and avoid feeding animals (it disrupts their natural behaviors). Pack out any trash, even if it’s biodegradable, to help keep trails beautiful for the next visitors. Overall, make sure to follow the “Leave No Trace” principles to minimize your impact—stick to trails, don’t disturb plants, and leave everything as you find it.
Capture the Moment, But Remember to Look Up!
Photo by Briana Tozour on UnsplashTaking photos of those epic views is part of the fun, but don’t spend the entire hike staring at your phone or camera. Soak in the moment with your own eyes, and enjoy the peace and beauty around you. Your photos will be a nice reminder, but nothing beats the memory of truly experiencing the trail. Set specific times to stop for photos, like at scenic viewpoints or landmarks, so you don’t end up glued to your screen the entire time.
Listen to Your Body
Photo by Holly Mandarich on UnsplashIt’s easy to push yourself too hard when you’re caught up in the excitement of exploring, but remember to listen to your body. If you’re feeling tired, take a break. If something hurts, don’t ignore it. Hiking is about enjoying the outdoors, so there’s no need to push through discomfort. Take care of yourself, and make adjustments as needed. Muscle fatigue and soreness are normal, but sharp or sudden pain isn’t. Trust your instincts—there’s no shame in turning back or taking it easy if something feels off.
Celebrate the Small Moments
Photo by Elias Maurer on UnsplashHiking isn’t just about reaching the summit or end of the trail. Take time to appreciate the little things along the way—the rustling leaves, the sunlight filtering through the trees, or a friendly chat with your hiking partner or the hikers you meet along the way. These small moments make the journey memorable and add to the experience.
With these tips in mind, you’re ready to hit the trail and make the most of it. So lace up, pack light, and enjoy National Hiking Day. Happy hiking!
- 5 Game-Changing Latina Athletes Who Should Be Household Names ›
- Trailblazing Latinas: Diversifying the Outdoors, One Step at a Time ›
