|
I love my (almost) daily nap/daydream/"do nothing" times
"Embracing Rest in August: Nourishing Black Wellness"
As we observe Global Black Mental Health Awareness Month this August, I'm reminded of the importance of rest and renewal for our well-being. As my responsibilities and businesses grow, I've made a conscious decision to prioritize my self-care days and adjust my expectations regarding my productivity. Amid life's demands, we activate our "rest and digest" system. Our rest and digest system refers to the parasympathetic nervous system that promotes relaxation, recovery, and restoration of the body. We activate this system through practices like deep breathing, mindfulness, and setting boundaries. This can be a powerful way to counterbalance stress and nourish our mental health. By prioritizing rest, we honor our strength and cultivate resilience.
I've been finding nourishment to my soul in simple rituals such as starting each day with prayer and gratitude, snuggling up with my new afghan on my loveseat - (the cover- a handmade parting gift from a friend), and taking mid-afternoon and evening walks along the shores of Lake Chapala. After decades on the grind, and in being in the business of "professsional helping" in its many forms," I'm still unpacking all the messages that tied my producing and doing to my sense of self-worth. So, I'm creating this newsletter as a quiet offering not only to you, but to myself – a reminder of the importance of tending to our holistic wellness.
Thank you to those of you who reach out each month and have written encouraging responses to this newsletter. I'm thankful for you.
Today, I also give a special shout-out to LaPronda Spann in Charlotte, NC, for her beautiful Facebook reflections on rest in July. And special thanks to Francine Greene in Charlotte for unexpected love and support in unexpected places. <3
With warmth and gratitude,
Sunya
Resources for your consideration:
- The Healing Power of Rest" by The Nap Ministry*: Explore how rest can be a radical act of self-care.
- Self-Care for Black Women: 150Ways to Radicaloy accept and Prioritize Your Mind, Body, & Soul by Oludara Adeeyo
- Get Good With Money: Ten Simple Steps to Becoming Fnancially Whole by Tiffany Aliche
Join us for our Upcoming Retreat:
AI generated art lovingly created by Emunah McLaughlin
We're excited to share that we'll be hosting our Jumpstart Your Souljourn Retreat September 19-25, 2025, focused on rest, renewal, and community for Black women. Stay tuned for more details later this week, as we still have early-bird pricing available.
https://sfolayan.coachesconsole.com/jumpstart-your-souljourn-2-51-html
|
