Season 1 Episode 12 of the Dear Black Woman Podcast
In the latest episode of Dear Black Woman, hosts Kami Redd, Lauren Edwards, and Nicole Davis dive into the transformative power of self-care. Joined by Andrea Kennington, also known as "The Boho Therapist," the panel discusses how self-care rituals help us reclaim time, energy, and peace in a world that often demands too much. From wellness habits to personal routines, the conversation provides practical advice and heartfelt encouragement for anyone looking to prioritize self-love.
Redefining Self-Care
Andrea, a licensed clinical social worker and Ph.D. student, began the discussion by debunking myths about self-care. She emphasized that self-care is not selfish but essential. "We teach people how to treat us by how we treat ourselves," she explained. Andrea shared her approach to making self-care a daily practice, likening it to "snacking"—incorporating small, manageable acts of care throughout the day.
Nicole highlighted how self-care has evolved for her, particularly as a Black woman. "For a long time, our mothers and grandmothers didn’t have the luxury of self-care," she said. Now, she strives to find balance, listening to her instincts and setting boundaries to protect her energy.
Breaking Generational Patterns
The hosts reflected on how generational trauma and societal expectations have shaped attitudes toward self-care. Lauren shared her struggles with consistently prioritizing herself, noting that Black women are often conditioned to care for others first. "We’ve been taught to suppress our needs, but we’re finally learning to put ourselves on the list," she said.
Nicole added that self-care for Black women is an act of decolonization. "Taking care of ourselves is a way of reclaiming what was taken from us—our time, our energy, and our autonomy," she said.
Practical Tips for Everyday Self-Care
Andrea offered actionable tips for incorporating self-care into daily routines:
Start Small: Incorporate short activities, like "exercise snacking," where you spread out small bursts of movement throughout the day.
Build a Routine: Make self-care as automatic as brushing your teeth.
Focus on Joy: Identify activities that make you feel good, from skincare rituals to cooking a favorite meal.
Set Boundaries: Learn to say no and protect your time and energy.
Lauren shared how small changes, like dedicating 20 minutes to the gym or spending time on her hair, have made a big impact. "These little acts remind me that I’m worth the effort," she said.
The Ripple Effect of Self-Care
Kami emphasized that self-care isn’t just about personal well-being but also about setting an example for others. "When we take care of ourselves, we show our children, partners, and community how to value themselves," she said.
Nicole shared a heartfelt moment about receiving a Thanksgiving message from a friend. "It was a simple text, but it made my day and reminded me of the power of connection and gratitude," she reflected.
A Collective Call to Action
The episode concluded with a call to action: redefine self-care as an act of empowerment, not a chore. The hosts encouraged listeners to start small, be consistent, and embrace grace in their self-care journeys.
Kami’s final words: "Self-care is not selfish; it’s self-love. You deserve to be cared for."
Tune in to Dear Black Woman for more conversations that inspire, empower, and uplift Black women globally. Listen on your favorite podcast platform today.
Comments