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Dear Black Women,
I hope you are finding yourself safe and in good health during this new normal. This blog space is dedicated to you. I thought this would be a good time to check in. While we are still facing emotional unrest in the Black community, including waiting for arrests to be made for the murder of Breonna Taylor and still grieving all those who have died at the hands of police brutality, I ask: How are you taking care of yourself?
As Black women, we are often seen as the caretakers of our families and communities. Whether it is in the role of girlfriend, wife, mother, sister, caretaker, friend, or employee, we give out a lot, and in fact, are expected to. We proudly serve in these roles but become exhausted in doing so.
Often referred to as “the strong black woman,” a widespread myth focused on the perceived strength of Black women, we neglect our psychological needs. As mental health specialist and life coach, Asha Tarry, stated in The Black Doctor, “The S on my chest is for self-care, not superwoman." It’s time to reclaim our time, as Aunty Maxine would say. So, ladies, I ask you again: How are you taking care of yourself?
One way to explore this further is to ask yourself: What does my body need? I ask myself this question daily and sometimes multiple times during the day. It may be awkward or uncomfortable at first but you will soon get the gist of it. One thing I have realized is, every day it looks different. Some days I need connection while other days I need rest. And that’s okay.
Take a look at the list below and ask yourself: What do I need? Is it:
- Sunlight
- Connection
- Disconnection
- Affirmation(s)
- A hug
- A fast
- Water
- Good food
- Space
- Rest
You get to define what each of these look like for you. No matter your role, position, or status, I encourage you to ask yourself this question daily. And don’t hesitate in discovering what you can add to this list!
There is only one of you — and we need you — so take care!
