Reclaiming Wellness: A Guide for Black Women on Self-Care, Community, and Empowerment
Wellness for Black women is more than just a journey of self-care—it’s about reclaiming space in a world that often overlooks the unique pressures they face. For many Black women, wellness extends beyond just physical health, encompassing mental well-being, emotional balance, and community support. As Brandi Bridges and Cassandre Dunbar highlight in their conversation on the "Be Well, Sis" podcast, embracing self-care is essential not only to thrive but to ensure a long-lasting, meaningful impact on families and communities.
This post explores key self-care tips and practices tailored specifically for Black women, along with a curated list of wellness books that provide insight, encouragement, and practical advice.
The Power of Community
For Black women, community support is essential. Dunbar shares how her community has served as a lifeline, particularly during challenging times. Having a supportive circle, whether it’s family, friends, or a neighborhood network, helps with childcare, provides companionship, and creates a space where Black women can truly be themselves. As Cassandre notes, building a supportive community is essential for creating a strong foundation that supports wellness goals. If you’re just starting out, try reaching out to local groups, wellness centers, or online communities where Black women focus on self-care and collective growth.
Tip: Consider hosting regular check-ins with your community members. Whether it’s a quick coffee meet-up or a monthly book club, consistent support builds stronger, reliable bonds.
Identifying and Combatting Burnout
Burnout often looks different for Black women, who might suppress their own needs to fulfill family, work, and community obligations. Signs of burnout can include irritability, difficulty sleeping, fatigue, and even apathy toward activities once enjoyed. Cassandre emphasizes that recognizing these signs is the first step. When you feel burnout setting in, take a moment to reflect on your day and pinpoint where you can carve out moments for yourself.
Tip: Dedicate 20-30 minutes a day to something solely for you, like reading, journaling, or meditating. Small acts can make a big difference in managing stress.
Rediscovering Joy in Everyday Life
Sometimes, rediscovering wellness means reconnecting with the simple joys of childhood. Reflecting on what you loved as a child—whether it was reading, painting, or dancing—can help you reconnect with your inner joy and creativity. As Dunbar shares, many wellness journeys begin by rekindling the passions and hobbies from our youth that brought us happiness.
Tip: Start a weekly ritual to revisit an old hobby or try something new. This time can help rejuvenate your mind and body while rediscovering what makes you truly happy.
Prioritizing Physical and Mental Health Through Nutrition and Supplements
Eating a balanced diet and taking essential supplements can be transformative for mental and physical well-being. Cassandre suggests a colorful diet that includes a range of fruits and vegetables to ensure you’re getting the nutrients needed to feel energized. She also emphasizes the importance of Vitamin D, especially for Black women, who may have lower levels due to limited sunlight exposure.
Tip: If possible, invest in a high-quality multivitamin and make Vitamin D supplementation part of your daily routine.
Wellness Books for Black Women
For Black women seeking wellness resources tailored specifically to their experiences, here’s a list of powerful reads that support mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
"Real Self-Care" by Pooja Lakshmin, MD
This book delves into sustainable self-care practices that go beyond spa days, focusing on emotional well-being, boundary-setting, and reclaiming agency over one’s life."Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself" by Nedra Glover Tawwab
This powerful book offers practical advice on setting boundaries, an essential tool for reclaiming personal space, time, and energy in a demanding world."Sister Outsider: Essays and Speeches" by Audre Lorde
A timeless collection of essays, Lorde explores themes of race, sexuality, and self-love that empower readers to embrace their identity and demand wellness as a right, not a privilege."Rest is Resistance: A Manifesto" by Tricia Hersey
Hersey’s book reclaims rest as a radical act of self-love, encouraging Black women to rest unapologetically in a society that often demands relentless productivity."Black Woman’s Guide to Black Men’s Health: How to Create Emotional Wellness" by Michele Phillips
A practical guide that emphasizes the importance of emotional and relational wellness, particularly for Black women navigating relationships and community roles."The Strong Black Woman: How a Myth Endangers the Physical and Mental Health of Black Women" by Marita Golden
This book examines the toll of the “Strong Black Woman” stereotype, advocating for self-care, vulnerability, and mental health."Sacred Woman: A Guide to Healing the Feminine Body, Mind, and Spirit" by Queen Afua
This holistic guide offers insights into traditional and spiritual wellness practices designed to help Black women connect with their bodies, minds, and spirits.
As Brandi and Cassandre remind us, wellness is a personal journey that each woman must embark on for herself. By reclaiming time, building supportive communities, and learning from those who’ve walked the path, Black women can prioritize self-care in a way that not only nurtures them but also strengthens their families and communities.