The Survival Guide for the Modern Apocalypse (Leggings Optional)
Cue Morgan Freeman voice:
Dr. Brooklyn Chick had big plans for last year. It was supposed to be the year—the one where she leveled up, ate clean, slept like a baby, and crushed her workout goals. But reality had other plans. Instead of slaying in power suits, Dr. Brooklyn Chick found herself Googling if PJ pants could pass as business casual and wishing someone would invent formal leggings with a matching chic work smock.
Let’s not sugarcoat it: Life last year felt like living in a never-ending dystopian series. Every time you thought you’d caught a break, BAM! Another plot twist hit.
Violence and conflict? Check. Racism, political chaos, and climate disasters? Triple check. It was like Avengers: Endgame meets Groundhog Day, but without the cool superpowers or satisfying resolution. It’s no wonder just getting out of bed some days felt like an Olympic event.
Now, I’m no apocalypse expert, but I’ve picked up some survival tips along the way. If last year left you feeling more “end of the world” than “endless possibilities,” these seven strategies, summed up as “TRAPPED,” might just help you keep it together—and maybe even thrive this year.
T – Take care of your body (Yep, you guessed it...cardio)
Listen, Zombieland got this one right: cardio saves lives. Sure, we’re not outrunning zombies, but we are dodging emotional zombies like anxiety, depression, and burnout. Moving your body isn’t just about fitness—it’s about releasing all that pent-up stress.
Pick your flavor: dancing in your kitchen, walking, running, yoga, or trying that viral TikTok routine. Just find something that gets your heart pumping and makes you feel alive.
R – Reach out (Loved ones, friends, mental health pros)
If the past year taught us anything, it’s this: isolation is not the vibe. Connection is key. Whether it’s texting a friend, venting to your favorite cousin, or booking a session with a therapist, building your survival team is a must.
We’re not meant to do this alone. Let your people hold you up when you’re feeling down—and be there to do the same for them.
A – Attend to your needs (Physical, emotional, psychological)
Sis, if you’re running on empty, it’s time to refuel. Take a beat to check in with yourself: What do you need right now? Is it a nap? A snack? A deep cry or a belly laugh?
Small things add up. Drink your water. Nourish your body. Take care of those little things that remind you to show up for yourself. You’re worth the effort.
P – Protect your mental health
Think of your mental health like a VIP club: not everyone and everything gets an all-access pass. Set boundaries with energy vampires, doomscrolling, and anything that drains your peace.
Instead, pour into things that fill you up—whether it’s journaling, prayer, meditation, or watching that show that makes you laugh so hard you forget how messy the world is for a minute.
P – Practice self-care (Yes, social distancing counts)
Repeat after me: Self-care is not selfish—it’s survival. That means setting boundaries, saying no to things that drain you, and carving out time for what nourishes you.
Take a long bath, turn off your phone, read that book you’ve been meaning to get to. Whatever it is, make it a priority. Because if you’re not taking care of you, who will?
E – Educate yourself
Knowledge is your weapon. Whether it’s staying informed about what’s going on in the world, understanding your emotions, or learning new ways to cope, arm yourself with information.
And remember, part of education is knowing when to unplug. Not every headline deserves your energy.
D – Don’t compare yourself to others
This one’s hard, but necessary. Everyone’s fighting their own battles, and no one’s path looks the same. Forget the curated Instagram lives and focus on your own journey.
Surviving—mentally, emotionally, and physically—is a major accomplishment. Clap for yourself. You’ve earned it.
Fighting emotional zombies is no joke, sis. Some days you’ll slay, and other days you’ll barely scrape by. Both are okay. Just remember to double-tap—rest, recharge, and keep moving forward.
You’ve got this, and we’ve got each other. Let’s gear up, lean on our survival skills, and face whatever comes next.
Rooting for you always,
Dr. Brooklyn Chick 🌱✨
