Healing and caregiving are part of the natural essence of the Black woman. From the dawn of time, Black women have been the ones who bring healing, comfort, and care to those around them. We are born nurturers and have always been throughout history.
But as Black women, we often put others’ needs before our own, forgetting that we must first care for ourselves before we can pour into others. It is crucial to remember that self-care is not selfish. It is essential to take care of ourselves first so that we can show up fully for others.
When we care for ourselves, we show ourselves love and respect. We honor our bodies, our minds, and our spirits. This self-care is necessary because it allows us to be our best selves, the ones who show up for our loved ones, and for the world.
If we pour into others before looking after ourselves, we may experience exhaustion, burnout, and even resentment. It’s like pouring water from an empty cup. When we take care of ourselves first, our cups become full, and we can pour into others from a place of abundance, love, and strength.
The practice of self-care can take many forms. It can be as simple as taking a few minutes each day to breathe, meditate, or stretch. It can be as indulgent as a spa day or a solo vacation. It can be as practical as making time to exercise, eat healthily, or get enough sleep.
Self-care also means setting boundaries and saying no when we need to. As Black women, we are often expected to be the ones who take care of everything and everyone. But we must remember that we are not superheroes. We have limits, and it’s okay to say no when we need to rest, recharge, or prioritize our own needs.
When we care for ourselves, we set an example for others. We show our children, our partners, and our communities that it is essential to prioritize self-care. We break cycles of harm and neglect that have been passed down from generation to generation.
Self-care is not a luxury; it is a necessity. By prioritizing our own health and well-being, we show ourselves love and respect. We set an example for others and break cycles of harm and neglect. When we take care of ourselves, we can show up fully for our loved ones and for the world, pouring from a place of abundance, love, and strength.
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.
