Tag: choose joy

2-2-22

It is that time of the year!! And while I personally see Black History Month as an everyday conversation, I understand that for some this is not the case. With that being said, Happy Black History Month to you all!!

The celebration of Black History Month is a great time for the nation and the world to expand on the many contributions of the Black/African American experience. Established in 1926 by historian Carter G. Woodson as “Negro History” week , Woodson wanted to make sure people understood not only the experiences but also provide an opportunity to focus on particular themes. The legacy of Negro History week, according to Woodson, was never meant “to dictate or limit the exploration of the Black experience, but to bring to the public’s attention important developments that merit emphasis.” Thus, The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) an organization created by Woodson would begin to explore Black History through a yearly theme. The first theme came about in 1928 and it centered around the idea of “Civilization: A World Achievement.” This year’s theme is the importance of “Black Health and Wellness”!

This theme acknowledges the legacy of not only Black scholars and medical practitioners in Western medicine, but also other ways of knowing (e.g., birthworkers, doulas, midwives, naturopaths, herbalists, etc.) throughout the African Diaspora. 

With this year’s theme centered on “Black Health and Wellness” (For more information about this click here!) I wanted to provide some tips and resources on making sure you are taking care of the best YOU!!

• Be Kind To Yourself
• Exercise…Get an accountability partner or even join a group
• Keep your body hydrated
• Incorporate smoothies into your diet
• Take in nature…It is a great remedy for alleviating stress
• Start a gratitude journal
• Make sure to plenty of sleep…To go back to those naps that we took during kindergarten
• Meditate…whether its 5 minutes or 30 minutes, make sure to give your brain a break
• Spend time with family and friends!!
• Check out these podcasts: Therapy for Black Girls, Peace of Mind with Taraji, Black Mental Health Podcast, Black Mental Matters, The Friend Zone, Minding My Black Business, Talking Off The Couch, AFFIRM, Getting Grown (just to name a few)
• Host a potluck or tapas-style gathering where you focus on a specific cuisine
• Don’t forget to smile and laugh routinely!!
• Do something for others just because you can.
• Tap into your spiritual side
• Incorporate a daily affirmations routine
• Try to be spontaneous or try something new each week.
• Your Boundaries Matter!
• Soak in some Sunlight and Vitamin D
• Cultivate a positive mindset
• Always Invest in Your Physical, Mental, and Spiritual Health

Additional books and resources highlighting Black Health and Wellness, click here!

While there is an official celebration of Black History know that this is a 365-24/7 effort for me!!