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Rest Isn’t a Reward—It’s a Right: Reclaiming Peace in a World That Glorifies Hustle
In a culture that praises the grind and glorifies overachievement, rest is often treated as a luxury—something you have to earn by pushing yourself to the brink. We’ve internalized the idea that productivity equals worth, and that slowing down is a sign of weakness, laziness, or lack of ambition.
But here’s the truth: rest isn’t a reward. It’s a right.
The Hustle Culture Lie
From motivational quotes plastered across social media to the relentless pressure to “rise and grind,” we’ve been sold a dangerous narrative—that we must constantly do more to be more. Hustle culture teaches us that rest is only acceptable once every box is checked, every goal reached, every task completed.
The problem? The to-do list never ends. And if we only allow ourselves to rest once everything is “done,” we’ll never get there. Instead, we find ourselves stuck in a cycle of burnout, chronic stress, and self-neglect.
Why Rest Is Revolutionary
Choosing to rest—intentionally and unapologetically—is an act of resistance. In a world that demands output, choosing to pause is a radical way to reclaim your humanity.
Rest is not just physical. It’s emotional. Mental. Spiritual. It’s the space to breathe, to process, to feel, to heal.
When we rest:
- We regulate our nervous systems.
- We become more present and grounded.
- We reconnect with who we are, beyond what we do.
Rest serves as a vital element of reality; it underpins a life that aligns with our values and enhances our well-being.
Who Gets to Rest?
There’s also a deeper layer here—the unequal distribution of rest. Systemic inequalities mean that many people, especially women, people of color, caregivers, and low-income workers, are disproportionately denied access to meaningful rest. Whether it’s due to economic pressures, cultural expectations, or generational survival mode, rest becomes a privilege instead of a human necessity.
Reclaiming rest, then, becomes not only a personal practice but a collective responsibility. We must challenge the systems that benefit from our exhaustion.
Practical Ways to Reclaim Rest
If rest has felt like a distant dream, start here:
- Redefine productivity. Your value comes from what your intentions and meaningful actions, not just how much you do.
- Schedule rest as non-negotiable. Put it on your calendar. Protect it like you would a meeting.
- Unlearn guilt. Rest is not lazy. Rest is wise.
- Create a restful space. Whether it’s a quiet corner, a bedtime ritual, or a screen-free hour, build environments that support peace.
- Say no. Every yes to someone else’s urgency is a potential no to your well-being.
Final Thoughts
Rest is not something you need to earn. It’s something you deserve—right now, exactly as you are.
Reclaiming rest is not about doing less. It’s about doing what matters with intention, presence, and a full cup. You don’t have to prove your worth by running on empty.
You are worthy of rest simply because you exist.
Take a rest audit: Where in your week can you pause—without guilt?
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Simple and Effective Resources for Holistic Well-Being 🌿
Summer is in full swing and I know you’re busy. In our busy lives, finding true and lasting well-being can seem difficult. Having a holistic approach to your health and wellness can help you achieve a more balanced and fulfilling life by taking care of your mind, body, and spirit.
Below are some tips that have worked for me over the years.
Holistic Wellness Practices
- Mindfulness and Meditation Finding inner peace and clarity is easier with mindfulness and meditation. They help manage stress, improve focus, and keep you present. Apps like Headspace, Calm, and Insight Timer offer guided exercises for all levels.
- Mindful Eating Practice Example:
1. Start Simple: Pick a small, simple item to start with, such as a piece of fruit, a small portion of a favorite dish, or even a single piece of chocolate.
2.Engage Your Senses: Take a moment to look at your food. Bring the food close to your nose and inhale deeply. Feel the texture of the food with your fingers or utensils.
3.Slow Down: Take a small bite and chew slowly. Pay attention to the sensation of chewing and the taste that unfolds in your mouth. Chew thoroughly, at least 20-30 times.
- Mindful Eating Practice Example:
- Movement and Fitness Exercise is key for a healthy body and mind. Whether you enjoy yoga or high-intensity workouts, moving your body boosts vitality and calms the mind. Try online classes on platforms like Glo, Down Dog, and Fit On.
- Holistic Therapies Acupuncture, massage, and reiki can complement traditional care, addressing the mind-body-spirit connection.
Mindset and Personal Growth
- Positive Psychology Positive psychology enhances well-being and resilience. Resources like Happify and the Greater Good Science Center offer tools and courses to help you develop a positive mindset. Let’s read it aloud!📣😊
- I am capable of achieving my goals and creating a fulfilling life.🌈
- I embrace positivity and attract abundance into my life.🌟
- I am worthy of love, happiness, and success.❤️
- Spiritual Exploration For deeper spiritual awareness, check out Gaia and Spirituality & Health Magazine. They offer content on various beliefs and practices to guide your self-discovery.
Community and Support
- Online Communities Engage with like-minded individuals online to find support and inspiration. Seek out groups aligned with your holistic health objectives, such as Reddit’s r/Nootropics or Facebook’s Holistic Wellness Network.
- Local Resources Connect with local practitioners and wellness centers. Explore yoga studios, integrative health clinics, and community centers in your area offering holistic programs. Click the button to connect with a health and wellness coach.
Starting a holistic health journey can have a profound impact on your life. By using the resources in this blog, you can gain a better understanding of yourself and find new ways to grow. Start your journey today and unlock the key to holistic well-being.
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- Mindfulness and Meditation Finding inner peace and clarity is easier with mindfulness and meditation. They help manage stress, improve focus, and keep you present. Apps like Headspace, Calm, and Insight Timer offer guided exercises for all levels.
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Tips for Fall Mental Health and Self-Care
As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, we find ourselves immersed in the beauty of fall. It’s a season that offers a unique opportunity to nurture our mental well-being. The transition from the warmth of summer to the coziness of autumn can be the perfect time to focus on self-care.
Here are some fall self-care ideas to boost your mental health during this wonderful season.
Nature Walks: Fall is a time of transformation in nature, making it the ideal season to immerse yourself in the great outdoors. Take leisurely walks in the park or the woods, and relish the rustling of leaves underfoot. The sights, sounds, and smells of fall can be incredibly grounding and soothing for the mind.
Cozy Up: Embrace the snug feeling of fall by indulging in warm beverages, soft blankets, and comfy sweaters. Create a cozy reading nook by a window and lose yourself in a good book. It’s an excellent way to unwind and de-stress.
AD: Healing Disc – The perfect way to level up your self care.
Mindful Moments: Use the changing season as a reminder to practice mindfulness. Take a few moments each day to observe the sights and sounds of fall. Whether it’s watching leaves fall or savoring the taste of a pumpkin-spiced treat, these small, mindful moments can enhance your mental well-being.
Creative Expression: Engage in creative activities that spark your imagination. Try your hand at painting, crafting, or even starting a gratitude journal. These creative endeavors can provide an emotional outlet and a sense of accomplishment.
Warm Baths: Treat yourself to a soothing warm bath. Add some Epsom salts and your favorite essential oils to create a calming and therapeutic experience. It’s a wonderful way to relax your body and mind.
Fall Flavors: Savor the flavors of fall by experimenting with seasonal recipes. Cooking can be a meditative and satisfying activity. Sharing the meals you prepare with loved ones can foster a sense of connection and joy.
Reflect and Plan: As the year draws to a close, fall is an ideal time to reflect on your achievements, challenges, and goals. Use a journal to jot down your thoughts, aspirations, and the things you’re grateful for. Setting new goals for the coming year can provide a sense of purpose.
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Stay Active: Don’t let the cooler weather keep you from staying active. Engaging in physical activities like hiking, yoga, or simply stretching indoors can boost your mood and energy levels.
Connect with Loved Ones: Fall holidays offer opportunities to connect with family and friends. Reaching out, sharing stories, and spending quality time together can provide a strong sense of belonging and support.
Embrace the Season: Finally, remember that it’s okay to embrace the changing season. Fall may symbolize letting go and releasing what no longer serves you. Allow yourself to shed any negative thoughts or habits, and welcome a season of renewal.
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Incorporating these fall self-care ideas into your routine can have a positive impact on your mental health. Embrace the season of change and self-discovery, and use it as an opportunity to nurture your well-being. As a mental health therapist, I encourage you to make self-care a priority this fall and throughout the year. Your mental health deserves it.
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Exploring the Pros and Cons of Social Media on Mental Health
Recently I had a client say to me, “I need to quit Tiktok!” We both chuckled because we knew how real that request was. I was able to validate her about the addictive nature of this particular platform, and many social media platforms for that matter.
As a licensed clinical social worker, I often find myself engaging with clients who grapple with the impact of social media on their mental well-being. Social media platforms have become an integral part of our lives, connecting us with friends, family, and a vast online community. However, it is crucial to recognize that social media comes with both advantages and disadvantages when it comes to our mental health. In this blog, we will delve into the pros and cons of social media and its influence on our mental well-being.
The Pros
- Connection and Support: Social media offers a powerful means of connecting with others, especially for individuals who may feel isolated or have limited social interactions in their daily lives. It allows people to find like-minded communities, share experiences, and seek support from individuals who understand their challenges. This sense of belonging can be immensely beneficial for mental health.
- Awareness and Education: Social media platforms serve as platforms for raising awareness about mental health issues, reducing stigma, and promoting resources and information. They facilitate conversations that help individuals understand and empathize with diverse mental health experiences, fostering a more inclusive and supportive society. Despite there being a ton more information it’s important that you are receiving your information from a credible source.
- Online Therapy and Support: Many mental health professionals provide therapy and support services through online platforms, making mental health care more accessible and convenient. Social media can serve as a bridge between clients and therapists, allowing individuals to access guidance and assistance from the comfort of their homes.
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The Cons
- Social Comparison and Self-Esteem: One of the downsides of social media is the tendency for individuals to compare themselves with others, often leading to feelings of inadequacy, envy, and low self-esteem. Seeing carefully curated highlight reels of others’ lives can create unrealistic expectations and contribute to negative self-perception.
- Cyberbullying and Online Harassment: The anonymity and distance afforded by social media can unfortunately foster a breeding ground for cyberbullying and online harassment. Such experiences can have severe psychological consequences, causing anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation. It is essential to be mindful of this dark side of social media and take steps to combat it.
- Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) and Anxiety: Constant exposure to others’ seemingly exciting lives and social events on social media can trigger a fear of missing out (FOMO). This fear can lead to anxiety and a sense of inadequacy, further impacting mental well-being. It is crucial to remember that what we see on social media is often a curated representation of reality.
Here are 5 ways to limit your social media usage:
Set a time limit: Decide how much time you want to spend on social media each day and stick to it. You can use apps that help you track your usage and remind you when you’ve reached your limit.
Turn off notifications: Notifications can be distracting and make it difficult to focus on other tasks. Try turning off notifications for social media apps to reduce the temptation to check them.
Create a schedule: Instead of checking social media whenever you feel like it, create a schedule for when you’ll use it. This can help you be more intentional and mindful about your usage.
Take a break: Sometimes the best way to limit social media usage is to take a break altogether. Consider a social media detox for a few days or even a week to reset and refocus your attention on other things. You can make this a part of your self care routine in which you have breaks on a weekly, biweekly or even monthly basis.
Find a new hobby or activity: In order to stop one habit sometimes you have to replace that habit or behavior with something new. The same applies with reducing your social media usage. You’d need to find alternative activities to fill your time, such as reading, exercising, or spending time with friends and family.
Conclusion:
Social media has revolutionized the way we connect and interact with others, bringing both positive and negative impacts on our mental health. It is vital to approach social media usage mindfully and recognize its potential benefits and pitfalls. Striking a balance between engagement with the virtual world and self-care in the present moment is key. Setting boundaries, practicing digital detoxes, and cultivating self-compassion are essential steps towards maintaining a healthy relationship with social media and safeguarding our mental well-being in the digital age. Remember, you have the power to shape your social media experience to support your mental health journey.
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Achieving Work-Life Balance in the Summer Season!
Memorial Day has passed …and summer is here! Well, not officially, but unofficially we can say summer is in the air. The summer months bring warmth, sunshine, and the promise of relaxation. However, for many individuals, managing work-life responsibilities during this time can be challenging. Thinking about child care for the summer months, wanting to be outside more despite having to clock-in for work, coordinating the next cookout, beach visit or weekend getaway can be tedious.
Fundamentally, I understand the importance of achieving a healthy balance between work and personal life. In this blog post, we will explore effective strategies for navigating the summer season while maintaining a sense of harmony and well-being.
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Here are some ways to start creating more work-life balance (or harmony):
1. Prioritize Self-Care
First, it would be good to start with self-care. Amidst busy work schedules and family commitments, it is crucial to prioritize self-care into your daily routine. Dedicate time each day to engage in activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Whether it’s taking a walk in nature, practicing mindfulness, or enjoying a hobby, make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine.
2. Set Boundaries
Next, you can focus on establishing clear boundaries between work and personal life is essential for maintaining balance. Communicate your availability and limits to colleagues, supervisors, and loved ones. Create dedicated periods for work and leisure, allowing yourself the freedom to fully engage in both domains without unnecessary overlap or distractions.
3. Plan and Organize
Once you’ve established healthy boundaries then you can effective plan and organize to manage your competing demands. Create a schedule that accommodates work responsibilities, family commitments, and recreational activities. Prioritize tasks, set realistic goals, and allocate time for relaxation. By structuring your time effectively, you can enhance productivity and reduce stress. You can also plan to use your vacation time to spend time alone or with loved ones to prioritize rest.
4. Delegate and Seek Support
Moreover, as you start to plan and organize your schedule and responsibilities you’ll realize not all these task need to be yours. Recognize that you don’t have to tackle everything on your own. Delegate tasks at work and home whenever possible. Reach out to family members, friends, or trusted professionals to assist with childcare, household chores, or other responsibilities. Building a support network can alleviate stress and create opportunities for shared experiences during the summer months.
5. Embrace Flexibility
Ultimately, the goal is feel like your schedule and responsibilities are doable. Summer often presents unique opportunities for leisure and recreation. Embrace the flexibility of the season by incorporating activities that bring you joy. Whether it’s planning a family outing, taking a vacation, or engaging in outdoor hobbies, allow yourself to fully embrace the spirit of summer and enjoy the benefits of a well-deserved break.
6. Practice Mindfulness
Lastly, amidst the busyness of work and family life, practicing mindfulness can help anchor you in the present moment. Take a few minutes each day to engage in mindfulness exercises such as deep breathing, meditation, or gratitude journaling. Cultivating mindfulness can enhance your overall well-being and enable you to approach challenges with clarity and calmness.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, balancing work-life responsibilities during the summer months is a worthwhile endeavor for your overall well-being. By prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, planning, delegating, embracing flexibility, and practicing mindfulness, you can create a harmonious and fulfilling summer season. Remember, achieving work-life balance is an ongoing process that requires conscious effort and self-awareness. Dr. Dalton Smith goes as far as to call it work-life integration, in which we need to incorporate rest as a priority into our routine. So, embrace the summer with intention, and may it bring you joy, rejuvenation, and a renewed sense of restoration in all aspects of your life.
How will you incorporate work-life harmony in your life this summer? Comment below.
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Strategies for Managing the Loss of a Loved One
In the past 15 years or so I’ve had about 4 truly significant deaths in my family (or those I would consider like family). Every time I’ve experienced the loss of a loved one I’m grappled with questions like why them, why now, and why this way. I recognize that to some degree I will probably never get those questions answered, so in some way I have to find solace with their passing. Yet regardless of your belief system – the afterlife, heaven or reincarnation – accepting that you won’t be able to engage with your loved ones as you once knew them is difficult. So dealing with that sense of grief can be challenging.
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Grief is a natural response to loss and can take a toll on both our physical and mental well-being. Grief and loss can have a significant impact on mental health. The process of grieving can bring about intense emotions such as sadness, anger, and guilt. These emotions can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is important to acknowledge the pain of grief and seek support from loved ones or a mental health professional. Coping strategies such as self-care, exercise, and therapy can help individuals navigate the difficult journey of grief and promote overall mental wellness.
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Here are some coping skills that may help:
- Acknowledge and accept your feelings: It’s important to express your emotions and not bottle them up. It’s okay to feel sad, angry, or overwhelmed. Allow yourself to feel and express your emotions. This can include talking to someone, writing in a journal, or engaging in creative expression like art or music.
- Take care of yourself: Grief can take a toll on physical and emotional health, so it’s important to prioritize self-care. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, exercising, and eating well. Self-care is crucial during this time.
- Reach out for support: Grief can be isolating, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Talk to friends, family, or a professional counselor about your feelings and memories of your loved one. You don’t have to go through this alone.
- Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness can help individuals stay present in the moment and manage overwhelming emotions. Try to stay present at the moment and focus on your breathing. This can help you feel more grounded and calm.
- Engage in activities you enjoy: Doing things you love, like reading, painting, or listening to music, can help distract you from your grief.
- Stay sober: Using alcohol or drugs during this confusing time is not a good idea. It can only make the process more difficult.
- Seek out a support group: Joining a group of people who are also grieving can provide a sense of community and understanding.
Remember, grief is a process and there is no “right” way to grieve. Remember that healing takes time. Be patient and kind to yourself, and remember that it’s okay to ask for help when needed. Give yourself grace and seek out the support you need.
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Nurturing Your Mind, Body, and Soul Through Journaling
I believe when most of us hear the word “diary” or “journal” we think about an emotional preteen/teen girl venting about her feelings and experiences in a book she keeps hidden from the rest of the world. As we’ve gotten older we now know that journals aren’t only for preteen girls. I hear some of my clients say “I don’t know where to start” or “I don’t know what to write in a journal”.
To give some context, journaling is an effective method for self-reflection, personal development, and stress release. Writing down your thoughts, emotions, and experiences can help you achieve clarity, process unpleasant emotions, and get a deeper understanding of yourself. In this blog post, we’ll look at the advantages of journaling and offer some advice on how to get started.
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The Advantages of Journaling
Here are 5 specific ways journaling can be beneficial to you and your mental health:
- Reduces Anxiety and Stress
Writing about traumatic or stressful events has been found in studies to improve mental and physical health by reducing symptoms of anxiety and sadness, that you’re holding both in your mind and body. It can help you reduce tension and release pent-up feelings.
- Improves Self-Awareness
It can help you connect with your thoughts and feelings, which can lead to greater self-awareness. You can have a better understanding of your emotions, reactions, and behavioral patterns by writing down your experiences. This insight can assist you in making beneficial life adjustments.
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- Enhances Creativity
Journaling can be an excellent method to express yourself creatively. Writing might help you generate fresh ideas and explore various points of view. While journaling you can try to focus less on “perfection” and let your thoughts and voice flow freely.
- Memory and cognitive function are improved.
It has been shown to boost memory and cognitive performance. Remembering crucial details, events, and ideas can be improved by writing down your thoughts and experiences. It can also improve cognitive function and mental agility by stimulating the brain.
- Helps Process Difficult Emotions
Being about to write out your thoughts can be a useful method for dealing with tough emotions. You can acquire perspective and clarity by writing down your ideas and feelings. This might assist you in working through difficult feelings and moving forward.
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Journal Prompts & Affirmation Workbook | Mindfulness Workbook | Printable Journal | Journal Prompts| Digital Workbook | Reflection Prompt$15.00 -
Goal Setting Workbook | Self Care Journal | Step-by-Step Goal Setting Guide | Personal Growth Workbook | Mental Health | Self Care Planner$10.00 -
Guide to Managing Anxiety and Worry Workbook |Mental and Emotional Health Workbook |Therapy Worksheet |Inner Healing Selflove Digital Journal$8.00
Getting Started with Journaling
So now that we know some of the benefits of journaling, let’s list how to get started on your journaling journey.
- Select a Journal
The first step in writing is to select a journal that feels welcoming and comfortable. A regular notebook, a digital journaling app, or a bullet journal with customizable layouts are all options.
- Set aside time
Next, establish a daily routine for writing in your journal. It could be first thing in the morning, over your lunch break, or right before you go to bed. Make it a regular part of your schedule, whichever time you choose.
- Write Freely
Allow yourself to write freely and without judgment when you sit down to write. Don’t be concerned about grammar or spelling. Allow your thoughts to pour onto the page.
- Experiment with Different Approaches
Experiment with several journaling strategies to see which ones work best for you. You may try writing in a stream-of-consciousness style, following prompts, or delving into certain themes or topics.
- Reflect and Revisit
Review your journal entries on a regular basis to reflect on your progress and get fresh insights. You may discover trends in your thoughts or habits, places where you’ve evolved or improved, or repeated topics in your writing
Takeaway
Try to create a journaling routine! It’s an effective technique for processing your emotions and building on self-awareness. It can give you a safe and productive channel for self-expression, whether you’re wanting to alleviate stress, tap into your creativity, or process challenging emotions. You’ll be able to obtain fresh insights, improve your mental and emotional well-being, and develop your understanding of yourself by making writing a regular part of your routine.
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Sources:
Pennebaker, J. W. (2017) Expressive Writing in Psychological Science. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1745691617707315
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Journal Prompts & Affirmation Workbook | Mindfulness Workbook | Printable Journal | Journal Prompts| Digital Workbook | Reflection Prompt$15.00
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Goal Setting Workbook | Self Care Journal | Step-by-Step Goal Setting Guide | Personal Growth Workbook | Mental Health | Self Care Planner$10.00
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Guide to Managing Anxiety and Worry Workbook |Mental and Emotional Health Workbook |Therapy Worksheet |Inner Healing Selflove Digital Journal$8.00
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Resilience Workbook | Build Resilience Coach Workbook | Mental Health Workbook | Emotional Health Workbook | Guided Journal$8.00
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How Spring Cleaning Impacts Mental Health
Spring is in the air! As we start to get through the long dark nights, gloomy cold weather of winter – some of the symptoms of seasonal depression (seasonal affective disorder) starts to lift – it’s always a pleasant feeling to know it comes to an end. To see the trees grow their leaves, the grass starts to flourish again, birds are chirping and flowers start to bloom it feels refreshing. And this time of year is primetime to start refreshing your home.
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BENEFITS OF CLEANING, DECLUTTERING AND ORGANIZING
Improved Your Mental Health
Spring cleaning isn’t just about decluttering your physical space, it can also have a positive impact on your mental health. Clearing out your living area can reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. It can also improve sleep quality and increase productivity by creating a more organized environment for you to work, think or be in.
Sense of Control of Your Surrounding
Sometimes when we feel stressed and anxious, we feel like our lives are out of control. Cleaning or organizing your space can give you a sense of control over your surroundings. We all know that clutter can really be distracting and make it hard to focus on a particular
Cleaning Benefits Your Physical Health
Beyond the benefits of a clean and organized living space, the act of cleaning itself can be meditative and serve as a form of self-care. Engaging in physical activity, like mopping the floors or organizing furniture, can release endorphins and boost your mood. Plus, the satisfaction of completing a cleaning task can boost your confidence and provide a sense of accomplishment.
Opportunity for You to Practice Mindfulness
Spring cleaning can also be an opportunity to practice mindfulness. Instead of rushing through the process, take time to appreciate the present moment and the small details of your home. Engage all of your senses as you clean and pay attention to the sights, sounds, and smells around you.
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WAYS TO START CLEANING, DECLUTTERING, AND ORGANIZING
Organizing and decluttering can be customized to your preferences. It’s important not to burden yourself by attempting to tackle everything all at once. A thorough deep cleaning isn’t necessary.
Here are 8 ways you can start decluttering and organizing your space today:
- Sorting through paperwork and shredding documents that are no longer needed
- Sorting through your closet and donating clothes you no longer wear
- Going through your bookshelf and donating books you no longer read or need
- Organizing your desk drawers and discarding any unnecessary items
- Cleaning out your refrigerator and discarding expired food items
- Sorting through your makeup and discarding any expired or unused products
- Organizing your shoe collection and donating shoes that no longer fit or are worn out.
- Clearing out your pantry and organizing your food items by category
Comment below some other ways you can start small and declutter a space in your home.
Finally, don’t forget to take care of yourself while you clean. Stay hydrated, take breaks when needed, and listen to music or a podcast to make the experience more enjoyable. And remember, it’s okay to ask for help or hire a professional if needed.
Overall, cleaning, decluttering, and organizing can be a powerful tool for improving your mental health and well-being. So, take advantage of the season and give your home and mind a refreshing start.
7 responses to “How Spring Cleaning Impacts Mental Health”
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Yes I love this! I’m in spring cleaning mode right now and it’s a whole mental cleansing just as much as the house. I’m having major clutter anxiety lately.
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Thanks for sharing Jaz! Happy to hear you found it useful. Be well 💜
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It’s def that time of year in my house – clearing out things and getting ready fpr a garage sale. Great tips! Sometimes it seems like it will never get all done.
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Oh, a garbage sale sounds like a great idea. Happy to hear you found the tips useful 🙃
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This is so true. Purging and organizing is on my spring to-do list!
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Happy to hear it Laurie! Hope it goes well 💜
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[…] Decluttering can be overwhelming, especially for busy families. Start small by tackling one area for a specific time and donating or selling no-longer-needed items. Consider enlisting the help of a professional organizer if needed. […]
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Sources:
Anxiety and Depression Association of America. Physical activity reduces stress.
Hanley AW, Warner AR, Dehili VM, Canto AI, Garland EL. Washing dishes to wash the dishes: brief instruction in an informal mindfulness practice. Mindfulness. 2015;6(5):1095-1103. doi:10.1007/s12671-014-0360-9
Saxbe DE, Repetti R. No place like home: home tours correlate with daily patterns of mood and cortisol. Pers Soc Psychol Bull. 2010 Jan;36(1):71-81. doi:10.1177/0146167209352864. PMID: 19934011.
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The Value of Self-Love in Black History: Promoting Empowerment and Self-Care.
“Even if it makes others uncomfortable, I will love who I am.” – Janelle Monáe
Self-love is a process of recognizing one’s own potential and worth, and accepting oneself fully, flaws and all. It is about taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional needs, as well as accepting and embracing who you are. It’s more than just treating yourself kindly or thinking positively; it’s about feeling empowered by your own unique individual strengths and qualities.
Self-love is an integral part of Black history. Throughout the centuries, the African diaspora have had to navigate the world and face extreme adversity, yet have still held fast to the importance of self-care, self-reflection and self-appreciation. From Frederick Douglass to Paul Robeson to Audre Lorde, Black folks have vocally proclaimed their right to love themselves in the face of systemic oppression, inspiring generations to come. Self-love and self-affirmation are essential components of Black history, and serve as a reminder that our liberation comes through bolstering ourselves and one another.
Although self-love can be difficult to maintain, especially if you’re going through a challenging or oppressive time, it is important to remember that it is a process that takes time and effort.
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Here are some tips to help you develop a healthy practice of self-love:
1. Accept your flaws – We all have things about ourselves that we would like to change or improve, but it’s important to remind yourself that these flaws don’t define you. Instead, focus on the positive aspects of yourself and your life.
2. Say nice things to yourself – Practicing positive affirmations can help you start to think better of yourself. Make sure to focus on the things that you like about yourself, even if they are small, rather than pointing out all of the things you wish were different.
3. Praise your successes – Don’t be afraid to recognize and acknowledge your accomplishments, big or small. This will help build up your self-confidence, which is an essential part of self-love.
4. Prioritize “me time” – Taking care of yourself and engaging in activities you enjoy can help you stay connected to who you are as a person and boost your self-esteem. Whether it’s reading a book, taking a walk, or watching your favorite movie, make sure to take some time each day or week to do something just for you.
5. Find a support system – Developing relationships with people who support and accept you can be an invaluable resource for learning how to love yourself. Reach out to family, friends, colleagues, or even a therapist if needed, who can provide guidance and understanding during times when self-love may seem hard to come by.
Self-love is fundamental for overall well-being, so make sure to take the steps necessary to cultivate it in your life above all else. With patience and practice, you can learn to appreciate the qualities that make you unique and accept yourself for who you are.
As someone that identifies as a Black person, we have always had to find ways to love and accept ourselves despite pervasive external forces that have sought to tear us down. From generational trauma to racial discrimination and oppression, Black people have had to continually fight for respect and recognition as equals, while also maintaining a strong sense of self-love. This has been especially difficult throughout the decades, as societal norms have favored those who fit into certain physical and cultural standards. Even in the struggle for freedom and human rights, we must recognize how important it is to love ourselves. Self-love allows us to stay grounded in our own worth, and to serve as a source of empowerment for each other. It helps us to not only build our resilience but also effectively fight for justice. As we continue to honor our long history of Black excellence, let’s also remember to practice self-love.
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Embracing Yourself: A Journey of Self-Love
The great thing about the current encouragement and promotion of self-love is that it inspires people to improve and become conscious about their lives. People engage in self-care practices such as taking days off, beauty routines, or making time for hobbies. These practices are helpful, but to have true self love we must work internally. We have to challenge the beliefs and limitations we hold inside.
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Don’t let other people and their expectations consume you. Time spent healing, growing, and allowing yourself to simply exist is not time wasted. You are not “behind” in life or less of value because you are not where you want to be. How people treat you is not indicative of your worth.
Allow yourself to have standards and values that suit you. You don’t have to wait until you look a certain way or have certain things. Never diminish your personal standards, for when you encounter someone or something that meets your standards and it for some reason doesn’t work out you can walk away knowing that:
- You are worthy of what you want regardless of circumstances
- You have moments and memories that fulfilled your standards at the time to hold onto
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To have true self love we have to forgive ourselves, treat ourselves with respect, change the attitude we have towards life, and change the negative opinions we hold against ourselves. One of the most important relationships we will have in our lifetime is the one we have with ourselves.
Affirmations to remember:
I believe in my capabilities
I am proud of myself for getting this far
I am grateful for what I have, and I won’t dwell on what I don’t have
I attract abundance and prosperity
I am allowed to take up space and exist
I am worthy of genuine love and support
I deserve to feel safe and to be safe
Valentine’s Day is a holiday that symbolizes love and romance between loved ones. Share and show love with your friends, family, or partner(s). Most importantly, make sure to treat yourself the way you would want to be treated. If anything, self-love is an opportunity to show yourself kindness, compassion, and appreciation.“Self-love is a process. It will require time. It will require patience. It will require change, solitude, pain, and everything that isn’t much pretty in this life. But in the end, it will be worth it. It will be beautiful. It will be you.” —Juansen Dizon
You are worthy of love and deserve to be treated with respect and kindness. Remember to prioritize self-love and acceptance, as it is the foundation for a fulfilling and happy life. Embrace your unique qualities and talents, and never forget your worth!
Happy Valentine’s Day!About the Writer…
Jamaica Okech is a current Masters student studying Social Work at the University of Texas at Arlington. As a native Texan and member of the Black community she has a passion for finding ways to reduce harm in the lives of those in need. Jamaica is inspired to be in the mental health/counseling field due to the gaps she has witnessed in the treatment of historically marginalized communities.
As an aspiring clinician, Jamaica believes in the importance of therapy as a helpful tool to support individuals in their healing and self discovery journeys. In her therapeutic approach, she provides an unbiased safe space for her client to grow at their own pace. She provides support by prioritizing their wellness through trauma informed care, empowerment, and personalized treatment.
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