Self-care for Trump’s Terrible Tariffs

Self-care for Trump’s Terrible Tariffs

By Cate Rees-Hessel

These tariffs are taxes on the American people! Do not bend the knee to Donnie Dictator.  These tariffs are fucking illegal. The tariffs game is nothing more than an arm twisting exercise by Donald Trump to bring corporate America to heel. Sadly his tactics are costing the average American big time. The most needy are as usual hit the hardest,  but that’s nothing new with this  president.

Walmart CEO Doug McMillon has in public statements said that tariffs are raising prices here in the United States and is negatively affecting consumers. Economic strife is stressful and many of us are facing uncertainty in the our futures, the threat of losing many hard earned benefits, especially seniors, the disabled, and families with children is terrifying. It’s even worse than I imagined when I heard Trump was re-elected. He has approved of drastic cuts to many vital programs like SNAP, Medicaid, and Medicare. A Democratic Senate and House can heal our economy, so vote in every election. Remember that Social Security is our money that we worked for and we are entitled to – use it wisely in these crazy economic times. This too shall pass, hopefully sooner than later.

During these times self care is more important than ever but how do we afford to take care our selves, our families and also remain healthy and sane. Here are some suggestions and helpful tips to weather the storm:

1. Grocery prices are outrageous; try eggless recipes and vegetarian dishes – both healthy and economical. Resist the current administration – they are destroying our economy.
2. Use outdated yogurt and past their prime fruits for face masks and cuticle treatments.
3. Join rewards programs, and look for coupons and deals online.
4. Look for free shipping.
5. Join a warehouse club to purchase in bulk. Purchasing family or jumbo sizes are often cheaper by the ounce or count (though not always, so double-check), when you can afford the initial cash outlay. Resist the current administration – they are destroying our economy.
6. Consider split payment programs – some even offer a debit type card to use in store as well as online. Often fees are minimal and most are interest free. Some of these services even offer monthly installment options – down payments are usually low, and minimum purchases vary from very low to mid ranges.
7. Invite a multi level marketing representative to do a spa day at your home. Tutorials are available online to learn to do your own mani-pedi, facial, and haircuts. There are also many good at-home hair colors available.
8. Shop local to save on gas.
9. Look for special discounts on pharmaceuticals and the like. Many places offer AARP, student, and/or military discounts. Seek out scholarships, as well, for education.
10. Consider clothes swaps, reselling on eBay, Poshmark, Marcari, Facebook Marketplace or local consignment-type shops that buy used goods. Try bartering to save on funds, and use your creativity to make money. Resist the current administration – they are destroying our economy.
11. Seek out free library and park district/recreation department programs.
12. Look for no annual fee, cash back, and lower interest credit cards.
13. Pay off balances when you can to avoid interest.
14. Opt for fee-free checking accounts.
15. Try a side gig – there are many opportunities online, but double-check online ratings and with friends for legitimacy. Resist the current administration – they are destroying our economy.
16. Consider a private mechanic versus a chain shop.
17. Consider a vocational school for car repairs – instructors oversee the work to keep it safe.
18. Teachers also oversee at beauty school clinics and work is done by senior students.
19. Offer to be a haircut, hair color, or manicure model.
20. Ask for samples prior to buying anything. Resist the current administration – they are destroying our economy.
21. Drugstore cosmetics are often as good as department store but be very wary of any thing made in China, sometime labeled as PRC. Even items that have U.S., Canada, Korea, Mexico, Turkey, or the like components that are assembled in China, I personally still avoid. Be extra careful when shopping in dollar stores. Make sure pet products are safe and nutritionally complete. Read labels on anything you purchase.
22. Sign up to be a cosmetic, jewelry, or other merchandise company rep to get discounts on products and access to samples.
23. Take advantage of streaming services – many offer new subscriber and returning subscriber specials, as well as access to new movies being shown in theaters or released recently.
24. Prime Days, Walmart Days and Black Friday-type specials are often worth the time and effort, especially non-large purchases. Our local Fred Meyer’s has a first Tuesday of the month 10% senior discount.
25. Clearance items that are not outdated can save a lot of money, especially after season discounted items. Resist the current administration – they are destroying our economy.
26. Many restaurants of all levels are offering special pricing or deals these days. If you are a veteran, or an ARRP member remember to ask for your discount. It’s usually enough to give pay your tip.
27. Going out of business sales can offer up to 75-90% off deals.
28. Homemade beauty items are often excellent, effective, and safe – the same goes for home created cleaning products.
29. Consider thrifting or purchasing pre-owned. It’s okay to re-gift, but be discreet.
30. Local theaters often need volunteer ushers which allows free access to their productions.

Remember, if we stick together and resist the current administration, we can get through this. So add a scarf or costume jewelry to last year’s ensemble to change up your look; show up for local rallies and sign those email petitions to make your voice known. Impeachment should be a given but Trumpty Dumpty still owns his Republican congress. Remember, keep well groomed and steadfast in faith as we all pray, hope, and wish for the day we are rid of the Trump-Vance dictatorship.

Trump and his henchmen are going to do everything possible to tinker, I mean ‘eff with the 2026 election. The higher the turnout the harder it is to skew the results. So, damn it, VOTE! Deciding to consciously not vote just plays into Trump’s hands. Don’t let cynicism keep you from the polls.