I think she's saying that the culture is patriarchal and misogynistic, but that connecting with other human beings in a way that is not about those dynamics can be helpful and maybe even healing. The things you've named, such as cleaning up an area or planting trees might fell fit in with what is being suggested here, e.g., helping others and developing our talents. That doesn't mean serving/servicing others I don't think. I take it to mean deprogramming from the toxic elements of this culture to engage in things that are actually healthy and nourishing, which includes being a contributing member of your community.

Mysterious also mentions going to therapy and doing the work to heal from trauma as an important way to deal with self-esteem issues, so I don't think you two are actually too far apart on this.