Day: May 11, 2023

Posted on by

Embracing Our Mothering and Healing Nature but Eliminating the Desire to Heal Our Romantic Partners

Within us lies a profound mothering and healing essence, rooted in our innate nature. As caregivers and nurturers, we are often drawn to partners who are in need of healing, hoping to extend our love and support. However, it is crucial for us to recognize the importance of prioritizing our own well-being and eliminating the desire to heal our romantic partners. In this article, we explore the significance of embracing our mothering and healing nature while redefining our approach to relationships.

The Power of Embracing Our Mothering and Healing Nature: As women, our capacity to mother and heal is extraordinary. We possess a natural inclination to care for and nurture those around us. Embracing this essence allows us to create loving, supportive environments that foster growth and well-being. However, it is essential to understand that healing others should not come at the cost of our own emotional and mental health.

The Need for Self-Nurturing: Amidst our desire to heal, it is imperative that we prioritize self-nurturing. By acknowledging our own needs, practicing self-care, and setting healthy boundaries, we ensure our emotional reserves are replenished. By nurturing ourselves, we not only enhance our well-being but also establish a strong foundation from which we can genuinely support and care for others.

Recognizing the Limitations of Romantic Partnerships: Although the desire to heal our romantic partners may stem from a place of love, it is crucial to acknowledge the limitations of such partnerships. Romantic relationships should not be the sole avenue for healing. Instead, we must encourage personal growth and individual responsibility in our partners, allowing them to embark on their own healing journeys.

Shifting Focus to Mutual Growth and Support: Rather than seeking to heal our partners, we can foster relationships based on mutual growth and support. By creating an environment of open communication, active listening, and shared aspirations, we can cultivate a space where both partners can thrive, evolve, and support each other’s personal healing journeys.

Embracing Individual Healing Paths: Each person’s healing journey is unique, and it is essential to recognize that we cannot heal others without their consent or desire for growth. Instead, we can offer love, understanding, and encouragement as they embark on their own paths of healing. By honoring their autonomy and supporting their choices, we create an atmosphere of empowerment and respect.

Seeking Alternative Avenues for Healing: In our quest to heal, it is vital to explore alternative avenues beyond romantic relationships. Engaging in friendships, seeking mentorship, participating in support groups, or pursuing individual therapy can provide spaces for growth, healing, and meaningful connections. These alternative avenues expand our support network and provide diverse perspectives on our healing journeys.

Conclusion: Embracing our mothering and healing nature is a powerful and beautiful aspect of our being. By prioritizing self-nurturing, recognizing the limitations of romantic partnerships, and embracing individual healing paths, we redefine our approach to relationships. Let us nurture ourselves, encourage personal growth in our partners, and seek alternative avenues for healing. In doing so, we foster healthy connections, empower ourselves and others, and embark on transformative journeys of personal and collective healing.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

Posted on by

Healthy Habits for Busy Moms: Simple Self-Care Practices for Optimal Health

As a busy mom, it can be challenging to prioritize self-care and maintain healthy habits. Between juggling work, family, and other responsibilities, it can feel like there’s never enough time in the day. However, by incorporating simple self-care practices into daily routines, moms can improve their overall health and well-being. In this article, we will explore some healthy habits for busy moms that are easy to incorporate into daily routines.

One of the simplest self-care practices that busy moms can incorporate into their daily routines is staying hydrated. Drinking enough water throughout the day can help improve digestion, boost energy levels, and support overall health. To make sure you’re drinking enough water, keep a water bottle with you throughout the day and set reminders to take sips regularly.

Another important self-care practice for busy moms is getting enough sleep. While it may be tempting to stay up late to catch up on work or take care of household tasks, getting enough sleep is crucial for overall health and well-being. To prioritize sleep, set a consistent bedtime and create a relaxing bedtime routine that helps you unwind and prepare for a restful night’s sleep.

In addition to staying hydrated and getting enough sleep, incorporating physical activity into daily routines is another important self-care practice for busy moms. This can be as simple as taking a walk around the block during lunch breaks, doing a quick yoga routine in the morning, or playing with the kids outside. Regular physical activity can help reduce stress, improve mood, and support overall health.

Eating a healthy, balanced diet is another important self-care practice for busy moms. This may involve meal planning and prepping ahead of time to make sure there are healthy options available throughout the week. Incorporating nutrient-dense foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, can help support overall health and provide sustained energy throughout the day.

In addition to these self-care practices, finding ways to manage stress is also important for busy moms. This may involve setting boundaries and saying no to commitments that feel overwhelming, finding ways to relax and unwind, such as reading a book or taking a bath, or seeking out support from friends, family, or a therapist.

Finally, incorporating moments of joy and connection into daily routines is also an important self-care practice for busy moms. This may involve taking a few minutes to connect with a loved one, indulging in a favorite hobby, or simply taking a few deep breaths and focusing on the present moment. These small moments of joy and connection can help boost mood and support overall well-being.

In conclusion, incorporating simple self-care practices into daily routines is crucial for busy moms to maintain optimal health and well-being. By staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, incorporating physical activity, eating a healthy diet, managing stress, and finding moments of joy and connection, moms can prioritize self-care and improve their overall health and well-being. While it may feel challenging to prioritize self-care as a busy mom, these simple habits can make a big difference in supporting optimal health and well-being.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

Posted on by

Cultivating Joy and Gratitude in Motherhood: Finding Beauty Daily

Motherhood is a journey filled with both joy and challenges. For many mothers, the daily tasks of parenting can become overwhelming and lead to feelings of stress and burnout. However, by cultivating joy and gratitude in motherhood, mothers can find beauty in the everyday and experience a greater sense of fulfillment and contentment. In this article, we will explore the importance of cultivating joy and gratitude in motherhood and offer tips for finding beauty in the everyday.

The first step in cultivating joy and gratitude in motherhood is to practice mindfulness. Mindfulness involves being present in the moment and fully engaged in the task at hand. By practicing mindfulness, mothers can become more aware of the beauty and joy that surrounds them in the everyday moments of motherhood.

One way to practice mindfulness in motherhood is to engage in self-care. Self-care is an important part of motherhood and involves taking time to nurture oneself physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Whether it’s taking a relaxing bath, going for a walk, or practicing yoga, self-care can help mothers feel more relaxed and centered, and increase their ability to find joy and gratitude in the everyday.

Another way to cultivate joy and gratitude in motherhood is to focus on the positive aspects of parenting. This may involve making a conscious effort to appreciate the small moments of joy and connection that occur throughout the day, such as a child’s laughter, a hug, or a shared moment of play. By focusing on the positive aspects of parenting, mothers can shift their mindset and develop a greater sense of gratitude for the joys of motherhood.

Gratitude journaling is another powerful tool for cultivating joy and gratitude in motherhood. By taking a few minutes each day to write down the things for which they are grateful, mothers can shift their focus towards the positive and cultivate a greater sense of gratitude for the everyday moments of motherhood. Gratitude journaling can also help mothers develop a more positive outlook on life and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.

In addition to practicing mindfulness and gratitude, finding beauty in the everyday can also involve incorporating small moments of joy into daily routines. This may involve creating rituals and traditions that bring joy and beauty to everyday tasks, such as lighting candles during mealtime or listening to music during bath time. By incorporating these small moments of joy into daily routines, mothers can create a sense of beauty and joy in the everyday.

Finally, it’s important for mothers to remember that finding beauty in the everyday doesn’t mean that everything is always perfect or easy. Motherhood is a journey filled with ups and downs, and it’s important to acknowledge and honor the difficult moments as well. By accepting and embracing the challenges of motherhood, mothers can cultivate a greater sense of resilience and gratitude for the joys of parenting.

In conclusion, cultivating joy and gratitude in motherhood is an important way to find beauty in the everyday and experience a greater sense of fulfillment and contentment. By practicing mindfulness, focusing on the positive aspects of parenting, gratitude journaling, incorporating small moments of joy into daily routines, and accepting the challenges of motherhood, mothers can find beauty and joy in even the most mundane moments of parenting. Motherhood is a journey filled with ups and downs, but by cultivating joy and gratitude, mothers can create a life that is full of beauty and fulfillment.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

Posted on by

Celebrating our Ancestors: Honoring Cultural Traditions in Motherhood

Motherhood is a journey that is shaped by cultural traditions and practices that have been passed down through generations. For women of color, motherhood is not just about raising children but also about honoring and celebrating the cultural traditions of their ancestors. In this article, we will explore the importance of honoring cultural traditions in motherhood and how it can help create a sense of connection and belonging for both mothers and their children.

For many women of color, cultural traditions and practices are an integral part of their identity and upbringing. These traditions and practices are often passed down from generation to generation, and they serve as a way to connect with one’s ancestors and cultural heritage. From food to music, clothing to language, these traditions are an important part of motherhood and can help create a sense of community and belonging.

One of the most important cultural traditions in motherhood is the practice of honoring one’s ancestors. In many cultures, ancestors are seen as a source of wisdom, guidance, and protection. By honoring and remembering our ancestors, we can connect with our cultural heritage and pass down their wisdom and traditions to our children.

Honoring our ancestors can take many forms, from setting up an altar in our homes to participating in cultural celebrations and rituals. An altar, also known as a shrine, is a sacred space where one can honor and connect with their ancestors. It can be a simple arrangement of candles, photos, and offerings, or it can be a more elaborate display that includes sacred objects and symbols.

Participating in cultural celebrations and rituals is another way to honor our ancestors. These celebrations and rituals are often tied to significant events in our cultural history, such as harvest festivals, religious holidays, and cultural ceremonies. By participating in these events, we can connect with our cultural heritage and pass down the traditions to our children.

In addition to honoring our ancestors, cultural traditions can also play a role in daily motherhood practices. For example, many cultures have specific practices around prenatal care and childbirth. In some African cultures, pregnant women are encouraged to eat certain foods and avoid others, while in many Asian cultures, the mother’s diet is carefully monitored and adjusted during pregnancy. These practices not only help ensure the health of the mother and baby but also connect them to their cultural heritage.

Cultural traditions can also play a role in raising children. Many cultures have specific practices around child-rearing, such as communal child-rearing or storytelling. These practices are often based on the wisdom and experience of past generations and can help create a sense of community and belonging for both parents and children.

Incorporating cultural traditions into motherhood practices can also help children develop a strong sense of identity and connection to their cultural heritage. By passing down cultural traditions, children can learn about their ancestors, their culture, and their history. This can help create a sense of pride and belonging that can have a positive impact on their self-esteem and well-being.

In conclusion, honoring cultural traditions in motherhood is an important way to connect with one’s ancestors, cultural heritage, and community. From setting up an altar to participating in cultural celebrations and rituals, there are many ways to incorporate cultural traditions into daily motherhood practices. By passing down these traditions, we can help our children develop a strong sense of identity and connection to their cultural heritage. Motherhood is not just about raising children; it is also about celebrating and honoring the cultural traditions of our ancestors.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

Posted on by

Motherhood and Mental Health: Breaking the Stigma and Seeking Support

Motherhood is a beautiful and transformative experience, but it can also be challenging and overwhelming, especially when it comes to mental health. Unfortunately, there is still a stigma around mental health, and mothers are often hesitant to seek help for fear of being judged or seen as a failure. In this article, we will explore the importance of breaking the stigma around mental health in motherhood and seeking support when needed.

The reality is that motherhood can be stressful, and it is not uncommon for mothers to experience mental health challenges. According to the American Psychological Association, up to one in seven women experience postpartum depression, and many more experience anxiety, mood disorders, and other mental health challenges throughout motherhood. These challenges can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, lack of sleep, isolation, and the pressure to be the perfect mother.

Despite the prevalence of mental health challenges in motherhood, there is still a stigma around seeking help. Many mothers feel ashamed or embarrassed about their mental health struggles, and they may worry that seeking help will make them appear weak or incompetent. This stigma can be especially prevalent in communities of color, where there may be cultural and societal pressures to appear strong and resilient at all times.

However, the reality is that seeking help for mental health challenges is a sign of strength and resilience, not weakness. It takes courage to admit when something is not right and to take steps to address it. By seeking help, mothers can get the support they need to overcome their challenges and become better mothers to their children.

So how can mothers break the stigma around mental health and seek support?

The first step is to recognize that mental health challenges are normal and that seeking help is a sign of strength. It is important to remember that seeking help does not make a mother a failure, but rather a proactive step towards becoming a healthier and happier parent.

The second step is to find a support system. This can be a trusted friend or family member, a therapist or counselor, or a support group for mothers such as the Kuponya Group. It is important to find someone who can provide a safe and non-judgmental space for sharing and listening.

Additionally prioritizing self-care is so important. Mothers often put the needs of their children and families before their own, but it is crucial to take time for oneself. This can include practicing mindfulness, getting regular exercise, engaging in creative activities, or simply taking a break when needed.

Fourthly, It is also important to create a support system that includes healthcare professionals. This can include a primary care physician or OB/GYN, as well as a mental health professional. These professionals can provide screening and treatment for mental health challenges, as well as referrals to specialists if needed.

Lastly, it is important to recognize that seeking help is an ongoing process. Mental health challenges may come and go throughout motherhood, and it is important to continue seeking support as needed. This may involve regular check-ins with a mental health professional or participating in a support group.

Breaking the stigma around mental health in motherhood is crucial for the well-being of mothers and their families. By recognizing that mental health challenges are normal and seeking support when needed, mothers can become better equipped to handle the stresses and challenges of motherhood. This can lead to happier, healthier families and a brighter future for all.

In conclusion, motherhood can be challenging, and mental health challenges are not uncommon. However, there is still a stigma around seeking help, which can prevent mothers from getting the support they need. By breaking the stigma and seeking support, mothers can become better equipped to handle the challenges of motherhood and become happier, healthier parents. It is time to prioritize mental health in motherhood and create a supportive and non-judgmental space for mothers to seek help when needed.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American motherhood aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

Posted on by

The Power of Sisterhood: Building Strong Communities for Mothers of Color

Sisterhood is a powerful force, especially for mothers of color who often face unique challenges and obstacles in their lives. Building a strong community of support is crucial for the well-being and success of mothers of color and their families. In this article, we will explore the power of sisterhood and how it can help mothers of color build strong communities.

First and foremost, sisterhood provides a sense of belonging and support. When mothers of color connect with other women who share similar experiences and struggles, they feel validated and seen. They know that they are not alone in their journey, and that there are others who understand and can relate to their challenges. This sense of belonging can provide a source of comfort and strength, helping mothers of color to face their challenges with renewed determination and resilience.

Sisterhood also provides a space for sharing knowledge and resources. Mothers of color often face systemic barriers that can make it difficult to access resources and support. But when women come together in a community of sisterhood, they can share their knowledge, expertise, and resources, creating a network of support that benefits everyone. This can range from sharing tips on navigating the school system to providing career advice or simply sharing recipes for healthy meals.

Furthermore, sisterhood can provide opportunities for personal and professional growth. When women connect and collaborate, they can create new opportunities for themselves and others. For example, a group of mothers of color might start a business together, or create a mentorship program to help younger women navigate their careers. By working together, women can uplift and empower each other to achieve their goals and dreams.

Another important aspect of sisterhood is the opportunity to heal and grow. Many mothers of color face trauma and discrimination in their lives, and these experiences can have a profound impact on their well-being. By coming together in a community of sisterhood, women can share their stories and support each other in healing and growing from their experiences. This can include everything from therapy referrals to wellness workshops to simply creating a safe space for sharing and listening.

So how can mothers of color build strong communities of sisterhood? The first step is to seek out other women who share similar experiences and struggles. This can be done through online groups, social media, or local organizations and events. The key is to find a space where women can connect and share in a safe and supportive environment.

Once a community of sisterhood is established, it is important to prioritize communication and collaboration. This means creating regular opportunities for women to connect and share, whether it be through group meetings, online forums, or social events. It also means being open to sharing knowledge, resources, and expertise, and being willing to collaborate on projects and initiatives.

In addition, it is important to prioritize self-care and wellness within the community. This means creating spaces and opportunities for women to prioritize their own well-being, whether it be through wellness workshops, meditation groups, or simply taking a day off to rest and recharge.

Finally, it is important to recognize that building a community of sisterhood is an ongoing process that requires patience, dedication, and commitment. Women may face challenges and setbacks along the way, but by staying connected and supporting each other, they can create a powerful force for positive change in their lives and communities.

In conclusion, sisterhood is a powerful force for mothers of color. By building strong communities of support, women can find a sense of belonging, share knowledge and resources, create opportunities for growth, and heal from trauma and discrimination. To build a strong community of sisterhood, it is important to prioritize communication, collaboration, self-care, and ongoing commitment. By doing so, mothers of color can create a brighter future for themselves, their families, and their communities.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.