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Shot of two attractive young women holding a mirror with their reflection in it against a sky background

Mother's Day. It arrives each year with a swirl of emotions, doesn't it? For some, it's a day overflowing with joy, gratitude, and the sweet embrace of a cherished bond. For others, it can be a complex, with longing, grief, or the quiet ache of unresolved wounds.As Black women, we understand the multifaceted nature of motherhood. We know that "mother" isn't always defined by biology. It's the auntie who stepped in, the grandmother who raised us, the older sister who guided our steps, the chosen family who nurtured our hearts. It's the fierce love, the support, the countless sacrifices made by those who poured they’re very being into shaping us.<figure id="figure-qqubj740qmagz4mau"><img id="qqubj740qmagz4mau" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2106860004/photo/top-view-of-women-holding-flowers-joining-hands.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=P6V6CK0Y-KcoyK4DFv0rpV_qfEO6yuNS0uLjHowtVbk=" alt="Top view of women holding flowers joining hands" title="Top view of women holding flowers joining hands" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2106860004/photo/top-view-of-women-holding-flowers-joining-hands.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=P6V6CK0Y-KcoyK4DFv0rpV_qfEO6yuNS0uLjHowtVbk=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure> I want us to broaden our lens and honor all those who embody the spirit of mothering. The ones who offered a safe harbor, a listening ear, a gentle hand to hold. The ones who instilled in us strength, resilience, and the belief in our own potential.Motherhood, in all its forms, carries its own weight of pain. The worry that never truly fades, the sleepless nights, the heartache of watching our children navigate their own challenges. There's a vulnerability that comes with loving so deeply, a constant awareness of the fragility of those we hold dear.And for some of us, Mother's Day can also bring to the surface the pain carried by our mothers, biological or otherwise. The wounds they endured, the sacrifices they made that may have left scars. The weight of societal expectations, the struggles against systemic injustices, the personal battles fought often in silence. As daughters, granddaughters, nieces, we sometimes carry the echoes of that pain, the unspoken burdens passed down through generations.<figure id="figure-nz65t5nykmagz82co"><img id="nz65t5nykmagz82co" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1457480498/photo/black-woman-with-curly-hair-meditating-at-home.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=1vaiDQTH9w1B8OOYzJMD9XeI2QV85MoEc1B-nwhjtzQ=" alt="Black woman with curly hair meditating at home" title="Black woman with curly hair meditating at home" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1457480498/photo/black-woman-with-curly-hair-meditating-at-home.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=1vaiDQTH9w1B8OOYzJMD9XeI2QV85MoEc1B-nwhjtzQ=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>This day can be a potent reminder of the need for healing – not just for us, but for the mothers in our lives, past and present. It's an opportunity to offer empathy, understanding, and perhaps even forgiveness. To acknowledge the imperfections, the mistakes made not out of malice, but often out of their own woundedness or the sheer weight of circumstance.Healing the mother's wounds, whether our own or those of the women who raised us, is a journey of compassion. It requires us to see them not just as the strong figures we often rely on, but as individuals with their own stories, their own struggles, their own vulnerabilities. It means creating space for open conversations, for acknowledging pain, and for offering the gentle balm of understanding.<figure id="figure-pcdh3idfxbmagzwe9d"><img id="pcdh3idfxbmagzwe9d" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1398077109/photo/closeup-father-and-son-holding-hands-while-walking-outside-in-the-garden-a-great-role-model.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=7HHMtKyMkomZBZ46pnNEV_Srj0JPEJa3xUdzXBsTHec=" alt="Closeup father and son holding hands while walking outside in the garden. A great role model and mentor for his boy child. A son will always look up to and follow in their dad's footsteps" title="Closeup father and son holding hands while walking outside in the garden. A great role model and mentor for his boy child. A son will always look up to and follow in their dad's footsteps" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>Maybe today, beyond the flowers and the cards, we can offer the gift of presence. A listening ear, a heartfelt conversation, a moment of quiet connection. Acknowledging the full spectrum of the mothering experience – the love, the joy, the pain, and the potential for healing – allows us to truly honor the profound impact these women have had on our lives.And on this day, my heart feels a special tug. Today is my own mother's birthday, and there's a certain longing that comes with that. I find myself missing the sound of her voice, the warmth of her laughter. While Mother's Day carries its complexities, it's those simple joys that feel most absent today.On Mother's Day, celebrate the love in all its forms. Offer grace and understanding. And hold space for the healing that can bloom when we acknowledge the full, complex heart of motherhood. If you're missing your mother's presence in your life today, for whatever reason, know that you are not alone in that feeling.<figure id="figure-8407mqirfumagzkk0t"><img id="8407mqirfumagzkk0t" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2168777512/photo/curly-black-mother-and-daughter-holding-hands-smiling-on-brown-background.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=CJWOk_o-jhpWE2-PjoKygCQSqlRWkDLcSUlR2m7ZC_U=" alt="Curly Black Mother and Daughter Holding Hands Smiling on Brown Background" title="Curly Black Mother and Daughter Holding Hands Smiling on Brown Background" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2168777512/photo/curly-black-mother-and-daughter-holding-hands-smiling-on-brown-background.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=CJWOk_o-jhpWE2-PjoKygCQSqlRWkDLcSUlR2m7ZC_U=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure> &nbsp;

More Than a Day: Unpacking the Heart of Motherhood

Thinking about how to improve her business

Alright, fam, let's dive into something a little… spicy. You know I'm a Kendrick Lamar fan through and through, right? His lyrical genius just hits different. But, the hip-hop airwaves have been crackling with something else entirely: a good old-fashioned rap beef, specifically the Kendrick vs. Drake saga. And honestly? As a mental health advocate, it's got me thinking about this whole concept of "pettiness" and how we see it play out, even in the brilliance of artistry.Let's be real, there's a certain human satisfaction in a well-executed clapback, a perfectly landed diss track. It's like watching a verbal chess match, and when your favorite player (Kendrick, in my case, obviously!) delivers a knockout punch with his words? Whew, there's a certain thrill to it. It taps into that part of us that enjoys seeing someone stand their ground, call out perceived wrongs, and be a little bit petty about it.Now, in our everyday lives, "petty" often gets a bad rap, and for good reason. Holding onto grudges, focusing on minor slights, and letting bitterness fester can be seriously detrimental to our mental and emotional well-being. It keeps us stuck in negativity and drains our energy. As someone who champions mental health, I'm all about letting go of what doesn't serve us and cultivating peace.But here's where it gets interesting with this rap battle. On one level, it is a display of lyrical dominance, a competition for the crown. The clever wordplay, the intricate rhymes, the sheer artistry of crafting such pointed verses – that's undeniable brilliance. Kendrick, in his element, is a force to be reckoned with. And yes, some of those lines? They definitely have a sharp, even petty, edge.Yet, isn't there also a way to see this as… just that? A rap battle. A high-stakes game of verbal sparring within a specific cultural context? It's a tradition within hip-hop, a way for artists to prove their lyrical superiority. In that arena, a bit of well-crafted pettiness can be part of the game, a display of confidence and skill.For me, as a Kendrick fan, I'm here for the lyrical fireworks, the intellectual jabs, the sheer artistry of it all. Do I want to see real-world harm or negativity spill over? Absolutely not. But can I appreciate the brilliance of a well-placed, even slightly petty, line within the context of a rap battle? Honestly, yeah. There's a certain entertainment value, a display of verbal dexterity that's hard to ignore. It makes you think about how we define "petty" and where the lines are drawn. Is it different in the context of artistic expression, a competitive sport of words? Can we appreciate the skill without endorsing real-world negativity?Ultimately, I'm here for Kendrick's brilliance, his ability to dissect society, tell powerful stories, and yes, even deliver a lyrically savage line when the moment calls for it. And, we can enjoy the spectacle of a rap battle for what it is – a display of linguistic prowess, a competition for the mic, and just a little bit of that human tendency to enjoy a well-aimed verbal jab. What are your thoughts on all this? How do you see the line between artistic expression, competition, and plain old pettiness?&nbsp; &nbsp;

Thought of the Day: Kendrick Lamar's Brilliance and the Art of (Maybe) Being a Little Petty

Hey sis, let's keep it real today. I'm writing this with a bit of bleariness around the edges, a testament to something I know many of us experience: the frustrating, energy-draining dance with sleeplessness. Lately, the nights have felt long, the mind has been racing, and the sweet escape of deep rest. Well, it's been playing a serious game of hide-and-seek in my world.<figure id="figure-n40twtu5mcm9suongw"><img id="n40twtu5mcm9suongw" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1074802182/photo/you-have-to-let-it-all-out.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=QksEPYGQFcjPwS14TT3shdVm-yeh24DQ0UlWhgHSQRs=" alt="You have to let it all out!" title="You have to let it all out!" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1074802182/photo/you-have-to-let-it-all-out.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=QksEPYGQFcjPwS14TT3shdVm-yeh24DQ0UlWhgHSQRs=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>And as I sit here, a thought keeps nagging at me: am I the only one staring at the ceiling when the rest of the world is sound asleep? Am I the only one feeling that foggy-brained exhaustion that seeps into every corner of the day? Because if there's one thing I've learned on this journey, it's that we, as women, often carry so much – our families, our work, our communities, our own hopes and dreams. And sometimes, that weight, those swirling thoughts, can make it incredibly difficult to simply… switch off.Maybe it's the beautiful, but sometimes energetically charged, springtime air here in Tulsa. Maybe it's the lingering to-do lists that replay in our minds like a broken record. Maybe it's just that our bodies, in their wisdom, are going through their own unique rhythms. Whatever the reason, the struggle with sleep can feel incredibly isolating.We try all the "rules," don't we? The warm milk, the lavender sprays, the "no screens before bed" decree (which, let's be honest, sometimes feels impossible). We create the perfect sleep sanctuary, yet our minds still feel like a busy highway at rush hour.<figure id="figure-lsu7twdp8um9surxqe"><img id="lsu7twdp8um9surxqe" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1454818722/photo/beauty-sleep.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=KPsHwU5zlxRHn-g9eFHx5J3En_UQDaJLhRsBQrZYDPk=" alt="Beauty sleep." title="Beauty sleep." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1454818722/photo/beauty-sleep.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=KPsHwU5zlxRHn-g9eFHx5J3En_UQDaJLhRsBQrZYDPk=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>So, I'm putting it out there, with a transparency that feels a little vulnerable but also necessary: are you feeling this too? Are you also finding yourself counting sheep that just won't jump the fence? Are you also navigating your days on less sleep than you know you need?Because if we are, then let's acknowledge it. Let's create a space where we can say, "Yeah, sleep has been a challenge lately," without feeling like we're failing. Maybe by sharing our experiences, we can find comfort in knowing we're not alone. Maybe we can even stumble upon some collective wisdom, some tips and tricks that have helped one of us find a little more rest.For me, lately, I've been making a conscious effort to increase my Vitamin D intake, hoping that plays a role in regulating my sleep cycles. I've also been incorporating gentle yoga stretches in the evenings to try and calm my body before bed. And when my mind feels like it's running a marathon, I've found some solace in reading a physical book – the blue light from screens definitely doesn't help! Plus, I recently discovered a free app called "Balance" that has some really soothing meditations and stories designed to help you drift off. Some nights these things help, others… well, the sheep are still putting up a good fight.<figure id="figure-t11l5d5jdpm9suwkv1"><img id="t11l5d5jdpm9suwkv1" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/885328878/photo/christmas-pov.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=GpmYX3HRB9zDg1BHA5P2-G3nebC297Ce5mE7FtpMHXE=" alt="Christmas POV" title="Christmas POV" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/885328878/photo/christmas-pov.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=GpmYX3HRB9zDg1BHA5P2-G3nebC297Ce5mE7FtpMHXE=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>So, if you're reading this with tired eyes, know that I see you. I feel you. And maybe, just maybe, by opening up about this shared experience, we can all find a little more peace and a little more rest in the nights to come. What about you? Has sleep been elusive lately? What, if anything, has been helping (or not helping)? Let's talk.Resource:<a href="http://www.therapyforblackgirls.com" data-mce-href="http://www.therapyforblackgirls.com" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">www.therapyforblackgirls.com﻿</a> &nbsp;

Counting Sheep and Finding Shadows: When Sleep Plays Hide-and-Seek (and You're Not Alone)

Smiling woman standing on a doctors office scale

We know our bodies are amazing, constantly changing and adapting throughout our lives. As we journey through our 40s, 50s, and beyond, one of the most significant shifts we experience is in our hormones. These powerful chemical messengers influence everything from our mood and sleep to our energy levels and, yes, our weight. Understanding how these hormonal changes can interact with our body's natural "set point" can bring a new level of self-awareness and compassion to our wellness journey.Remember that "set point" we talked about? That weight range your body naturally tries to maintain? Well, the hormonal shifts we experience, particularly during perimenopause and menopause, can gently nudge that set point.The Estrogen Connection:As estrogen levels naturally decline during perimenopause and menopause, several things can happen that might influence our weight:Lower estrogen levels can encourage the body to store more fat around the abdomen, rather than the hips and thighs. This shift in fat distribution is a common experience and is linked to various health considerations.While not solely attributed to estrogen, the hormonal changes, combined with natural aging and potential loss of muscle mass, can contribute to a gradual slowing of our metabolism. This means we might burn fewer calories at rest.Some studies suggest that declining estrogen can impact insulin sensitivity, potentially making it easier to store fat.Hormonal fluctuations can lead to hot flashes and night sweats, disrupting our sleep. Poor sleep can, in turn, affect our hunger hormones (ghrelin and leptin), potentially leading to increased appetite and cravings for less nutritious foods.It's Not Just About Estrogen:While estrogen plays a significant role, other hormonal shifts can also be at play. Changes in progesterone and even slight shifts in testosterone levels can also influence body composition and metabolism.What This Means for Your Happy Weight:Understanding these hormonal influences on our set point doesn't mean we're powerless. Instead, it empowers us to approach our health with greater awareness and self-compassion:If you notice your body settling into a slightly different weight range during this time, remember that hormonal shifts are a natural part of this life stage. Avoid harsh self-criticism and focus on overall well-being.Instead of solely focusing on weight, prioritize habits that support hormonal balance and overall health. This includes a whole foods-based diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, regular joyful movement (including strength training to maintain muscle mass), stress management techniques, and prioritizing quality sleep.Pay attention to your hunger and fullness cues. Embrace intuitive eating principles and nourish your body with what it truly needs.If you're struggling with significant weight changes or other menopause-related symptoms, don't hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider. They can offer personalized advice and support.Our bodies are wise and resilient. Understanding how our hormones influence our natural weight range allows us to navigate this chapter with grace, focusing on sustainable health and celebrating the incredible journey we're on.

Hormones and Understanding Set Point Shifts Through the Decades

Cropped shot of an unrecognizable woman tying her shoelaces while exercising at the gym

It's a new week, and often, that brings a fresh wave of intentions. But before we automatically jump to the familiar territory of numbers on a scale, let's pause for a moment, sis. Let's truly check in with ourselves and consider what real health means to us, especially as we navigate this chapter of our lives.For so long, the conversation around health has been dominated by weight. We've been conditioned to believe that a certain number dictates our well-being. But the truth is, our health is so much more complex and deeply personal than that. It's about how we feel, the energy we have, the joy we experience, and our overall quality of life.<figure id="figure-mo5jc1ypbm961wbej"><img id="mo5jc1ypbm961wbej" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2193745863/photo/thin-man.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=sSoMWwLKwhkxJkqcAiIgHA9UxJhL3DeCeDKPl2uE_pE=" alt="Thin man." title="Thin man." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>This week, I invite you to shift your focus. Let's move beyond the scale and tune into the more meaningful indicators of our health. What are some of your real health goals? Maybe they look something like this:1. Instead of focusing on pounds lost, what if your goal was to wake up feeling more rested and have sustained energy throughout the day? This could involve prioritizing sleep, incorporating movement into your routine, or making mindful choices about your nutrition.<figure id="figure-hlwtrh1dem9614ijc"><img id="hlwtrh1dem9614ijc" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1269497255/photo/young-african-american-woman-is-relaxing-in-nature.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Df64BtFGx1HAvpUrRThomWa31TN8VfY3YjdFY68Q0MY=" alt="Young African American woman is relaxing in nature" title="Young African American woman is relaxing in nature" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1269497255/photo/young-african-american-woman-is-relaxing-in-nature.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Df64BtFGx1HAvpUrRThomWa31TN8VfY3YjdFY68Q0MY=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>2. Maybe your aim is to cultivate a greater sense of peace and manage stress more effectively. This might mean incorporating mindfulness practices, spending time in nature, or setting healthy boundaries.3. Forget about hitting a specific number of steps or reps if it feels like a chore. What if your goal was simply to find a movement that you genuinely enjoy? Whether it's dancing in your living room, taking a leisurely walk, or trying a new activity, joyful movement is sustainable movement.<figure id="figure-8ew9v6zs7qm9619q40"><img id="8ew9v6zs7qm9619q40" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2198589689/photo/young-businesswoman-relaxing-on-chair-with-arms-raised-and-smiling.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=VfHOpnKqf73qE7DcaceYQXYbgjdo9FNnSMRuDkWTsdc=" alt="Young businesswoman relaxing on chair with arms raised and smiling" title="Young businesswoman relaxing on chair with arms raised and smiling" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2198589689/photo/young-businesswoman-relaxing-on-chair-with-arms-raised-and-smiling.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=VfHOpnKqf73qE7DcaceYQXYbgjdo9FNnSMRuDkWTsdc=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>4. Instead of restricting calories, what if your focus was on incorporating more vibrant, whole foods into your diet? Think about adding more fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains that make you feel good from the inside out.5. Our social and emotional well-being is just as crucial as our physical health. Maybe your goal is to nurture your relationships, spend quality time with loved ones, or connect with your community.6. Quality sleep is foundational for so many aspects of our health. Perhaps your goal is to establish a consistent sleep routine and wake up feeling refreshed.<figure id="figure-b0m29st5ttm961hi3n" class=""><img id="b0m29st5ttm961hi3n" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/882894362/photo/deep-in-dreamland.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=CKDkdtJBgdmB2ONpwNf7AVJ0raPFfrFm4cZO_LktFh8=" alt="Deep in dreamland" title="Deep in dreamland" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/882894362/photo/deep-in-dreamland.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=CKDkdtJBgdmB2ONpwNf7AVJ0raPFfrFm4cZO_LktFh8=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>This week, take some time to reflect on what truly matters to your well-being. What are the internal shifts you desire? What are the ways you want to feel healthier and more vibrant?Write down these real health goals. Keep them visible. And as you move through your week, check in with yourself. Are you making choices that support these goals? Are you tuning into how your body and mind are responding?Redefine what health looks like, focusing on the internal metrics that truly reflect well-being. This week, commit to nurturing energy, peace, joy, and overall vitality. Because true health is about so much more than a number on a scale. It's about living a life that feels good from the inside out.<figure id="figure-trngbxa5lqm961r6l5"><img id="trngbxa5lqm961r6l5" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/174933038/photo/beautiful-woman.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=IHkQ9ydBmQrwSpufL00aE14M9fW8g3tF4uAuZW92x8Q=" alt="Beautiful Woman" title="Beautiful Woman" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/174933038/photo/beautiful-woman.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=IHkQ9ydBmQrwSpufL00aE14M9fW8g3tF4uAuZW92x8Q=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>

Beyond the Scale: Tuning In to Your Real Health Goals This Week

It's Monday, and the week is officially in full swing. Between work, family, and all the beautiful chaos life throws our way, it's easy to feel like we're just trying to keep all the plates spinning. But before you get too caught up in the hustle, let's talk about something vital: taking a moment for you.Self-care doesn't have to be a grand, elaborate affair. Sometimes, the most powerful acts of nurturing are the simplest ones, especially when they align with our values and nourish us from the inside out. As we embrace a plant-based lifestyle, focusing on whole, vibrant foods, even our moments of self-care can reflect that beautiful connection to nature.Think about it: What small, vegan-friendly act could you weave into your Monday to bring a little peace and rejuvenation? Maybe it's brewing a fragrant herbal tea and savoring each sip mindfully. Perhaps it's stepping outside for five minutes to feel the warmth of the (hopefully!) sunshine on your face and appreciate the budding signs of spring. Or maybe it's preparing a small, colorful smoothie packed with fresh fruits and leafy greens—a delicious and nourishing way to fuel your body and soul.These small moments remind us to breathe, to reconnect with ourselves, and to honor our well-being amidst the demands of the day. And if you're interested in exploring a whole foods vegan lifestyle further and discovering more ways to nourish yourself with delicious plant-based goodness, my e-book, 'Everything you always wanted to know about veganism: Benefits, Risks, and what to eat,' offers a wealth of information and support for making this a sustainable and healthy choice. You can find it here: <a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Everything-always-wanted-about-veganism-ebook/dp/B09S2WTDRW/ref=sr_1_18?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.YvnLQU-MP1OOHsMODOsKPsTSNCQ3H5P4Q4r3wDow53quCtMHm4qFcA-mLMpdxZ7Hu_mBm4Q3kt1sugrCTUUHHusV1F5IsGEwm6BKwv3qupFeB2tODsJn6JNb8utj2bmu.hBXMAWc09s8x2BPDQ7cj0MMRCmrYrZtH9BASKE3MW2k&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=Dr.+Debra+Lewis&amp;qid=1743444195&amp;sr=8-18&amp;xpid=jIBNb7hXdY4DH" href="https://www.amazon.com/Everything-always-wanted-about-veganism-ebook/dp/B09S2WTDRW/ref=sr_1_18?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.YvnLQU-MP1OOHsMODOsKPsTSNCQ3H5P4Q4r3wDow53quCtMHm4qFcA-mLMpdxZ7Hu_mBm4Q3kt1sugrCTUUHHusV1F5IsGEwm6BKwv3qupFeB2tODsJn6JNb8utj2bmu.hBXMAWc09s8x2BPDQ7cj0MMRCmrYrZtH9BASKE3MW2k&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=Dr.+Debra+Lewis&amp;qid=1743444195&amp;sr=8-18&amp;xpid=jIBNb7hXdY4DH" title="Veganism e-book" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Amazon.com</a>So, take a breath, sis. Choose one small act today—something that feels good, something that nourishes you in a way that aligns with your values. You deserve that moment of gentle care. You deserve to start your week feeling a little more grounded and a little more connected to yourself. You've got this.<figure id="figure-4jognc0kfnm8xduzcf"><img id="4jognc0kfnm8xduzcf" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1132520490/photo/ripe-and-ready-to-get-in-my-belly.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=JKze_Tt2K6hIsOsX-6TW5CvgteewNJo4FCukE-l7l6M=" alt="Ripe and ready to get in my belly" title="Ripe and ready to get in my belly" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1132520490/photo/ripe-and-ready-to-get-in-my-belly.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=JKze_Tt2K6hIsOsX-6TW5CvgteewNJo4FCukE-l7l6M=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>

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