One often overlooked—but essential—part of climate action is taking care of ourselves along the way. Navigating the complexities of family life in a rapidly changing climate, within systems that don’t always support our wellbeing, can be incredibly tough. At times, it can feel downright rugged.

This article is dedicated to all the parents, grandparents, carers, aunts, uncles, and teachers doing what they can, when they can, to engage in climate action. And in light of Mother’s Day, I especially want to honour all the mums who show up with fierce love—protecting their families and standing up for the future.

Here’s the thing: we are not machines. We can’t just keep pushing forward without pause. And even if we were machines, we’d need regular tune-ups and downtime.

So let me ask you:
How often do you give yourself permission to pause?
To rest a little more when needed?
To ask for support—or simply do something just because it brings you joy?

I’m writing this in the aftermath of a seven-month federal election campaign, a time that also brought many changes for my family. Like many others, I’m now sitting with the wave of emotions that follows an intense period of effort. I’m reminded, every day, that our ability to show up—for our families and for climate action—is deeply connected to how we care for ourselves.

Maybe you’re feeling a swirl of emotions about the election outcome.
Maybe, like many, you’ve been focused on immediate family needs and are only just coming up for air.
Maybe you're asking yourself, now what?

Whatever you’re feeling, know this: it’s okay to take stock and honour the aftermath. Our society doesn’t always make space for rest and reflection, but they are essential, especially after high-intensity periods.

So, what can we do to look after ourselves—especially after big moments like elections or major family changes?

Here are 10 supportive ideas:

1. Acknowledge the Highlights
   Reflect on what went well. What are you proud of? Celebrating wins—even small ones—builds resilience.
   
   
2. Express Gratitude
   Appreciate others and their contributions. Gratitude boosts wellbeing and strengthens relationships.
   
   
3. Rest When You Can
   Pause for three quiet minutes beside a tree. Linger with your favourite hot drink. Take someone up on that offer to help with the kids so you can enjoy a sleep-in. It all counts.
   
   
4. Honour Your Feelings
   You’re human. Let yourself feel what you feel. Whether it’s sadness, relief, frustration or hope—naming your feelings helps move them. (You might like to do this in a safe space alone or with others—join a Climate Café to connect.)
   
   
5. Nourish Your Body
   Eat foods that nourish you, hydrate well, and consider immune-supporting vitamins if you're feeling depleted.
   
   
6. Move Your Body
   Movement helps release stress hormones. Whether it’s swaying, shaking, dancing, walking, or stretching—choose what feels good to you.
   
   
7. Allow Time for Reflection
   After big events, clarity takes time. Be gentle with yourself as you process and make sense of things.
   
   
8. Debrief and Evaluate
   Reach out. Talk with others about what happened and how you feel. Sharing stories helps us learn, heal, and move forward together.
   
   
9. Remember the Bigger Picture
   Our mission—to ensure a safe, liveable climate for our kids—extends beyond any single election or season of life. Social change is not a moment. It’s a movement.
   
   
10. Give Yourself Permission to Pause
    Rest isn’t selfish. It’s part of the work.

I’ll leave you with this powerful reminder from artist and activist Brenna Quinlan:

"When I feel torn between what I need for my mental health, and what I feel is needed of me, I remind myself that I’m part of a movement. Movements are like a choir, in that everyone does their own special part, and when someone needs to take a breath, there are so many voices singing that the song goes on.
So do what you need to do to keep yourself healthy. We can’t sing when we’re out of breath, but when we pause to inhale deeply, we can sing clearer and louder than ever."

Further Inspiration & Resources

• Nourish Yourself – Parents for Climate
  
  
• 10 Great Resources on Activist Wellbeing – Commons Library
  
  
• Sustaining Ourselves as Activists – Commons Library
  
  
• Climate Feelings Space - Psychology for a Safe Climate
  
  
• Climate Café – Psychology for a Safe Climate