Join Kim, Marquia, and Ednesha as they explore the importance of choosing oneself, particularly for Black women who often prioritize the needs of others. They discuss cultural conditioning that leads to self-sacrifice, the consequences of neglecting personal well-being, and the necessity of self-love and preservation. They emphasize the need for Black women to reclaim their time and energy, advocating for a shift in mindset that prioritizes individual needs alongside community responsibilities. The hosts also explore the themes of self-sacrifice, the importance of self-care, and the hard lessons learned when choosing oneself. Keywords: healing, self-care, mental health, Black women, self-love, cultural conditioning, personal growth, emotional well-being, self-preservation, community support, self-care, mental health, relationships, personal growth, education, boundaries, emotional labor, self-reflection, toxic relationships, empowerment Takeaways Choosing yourself is essential for your well-being. Black women often feel overwhelmed and exhausted from self-sacrifice. Cultural conditioning teaches us to prioritize others over ourselves. Self-love and self-preservation are not selfish acts. Many Black women are conditioned to be caretakers from a young age. The strong Black woman trope can be detrimental to mental health. It's important to articulate gratitude and reflect on personal growth. Consequences of not choosing oneself can lead to depression and anxiety. Finding your voice in family dynamics is crucial for self-care. Reclaiming time and energy is a radical act of self-love. Sacrificing oneself for others can lead to emotional and mental health issues. Choosing yourself is essential for personal growth and well-being. Setting boundaries is crucial in maintaining healthy relationships. Self-reflection helps in understanding personal needs and desires. It's important to recognize toxic patterns in relationships. People may react negatively when you prioritize yourself. Time lost in unhealthy relationships cannot be regained. Grace and compassion towards oneself are necessary during the healing process. Listening to your body is key to self-care. Creating a support system can aid in making difficult choices.

Join Ednesha, Marquia, and Kim as they discuss Black Girl Day Off and the need for rest. The hosts discuss the importance of healing, self-care, and the collective experience of Black women. They explore current events, the significance of taking a day off for rest and rejuvenation, and the guilt often associated with prioritizing self-care. The conversation emphasizes the need for Black women to reclaim their time and focus on their well-being amidst societal pressures. In this conversation, the hosts explore the nuanced differences between self-care and productivity, emphasizing the importance of engaging in activities that genuinely nourish the soul rather than merely checking items off a to-do list. They discuss the critical role of boundaries in maintaining mental health and how personal relationships can complicate these boundaries. The conversation also touches on the idea of celebrity rest days, reflecting on the importance of personal reflection and the need for effective tools to enhance self-care practices. The hosts conclude with practical tips for creating a personal rest plan and the significance of journaling and digital detoxing. Keywords: healing, self-care, mental health, Black women, joy, rest, wellness, connection, community, empowerment, self-care, productivity, mental health, boundaries, personal reflection, rest, wellness, self-care tools, emotional well-being. Takeaways • Healing and self-care are essential for being whole. • Black women often feel guilty about taking time for themselves. • Current events can significantly impact mental health. • Taking a day off is crucial for rest and rejuvenation. • It's important to prioritize self-care without guilt. • Community and connection are vital for Black women's well-being. • Navigating societal expectations can be challenging. • Rest is not just a luxury; it's a necessity. • Engaging in wellness practices can improve overall health. • We must learn to give ourselves grace in our journeys. Self-care should be nourishing, not just a checklist. • Productivity culture can overshadow genuine self-care. • Setting boundaries is crucial for mental health. • We often break our own boundaries, impacting our well-being. • Personal reflection is key to understanding our needs. • Creating a rest plan can enhance self-care. • Digital detoxing helps reduce distractions. • Journaling can clarify emotional and mental states. • Engaging in joyful activities is essential for self-care. • Every day can be a day off if we prioritize our well-being.

Join Marquia, Ednesha and Kim as they dis cuss summer and fall

Join Ednesha, Marquia, and Kim as they discuss the connection between mental health, relationships, and how to balance social activities and personal time during the summer to maintain mental health. They also talk about BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month and the importance of raising awareness about mental health in the Black community. They share strategies such as taking PTO, setting boundaries, and prioritizing activities that bring joy and relaxation. They also emphasize the importance of reconnecting with friends and family, whether through sharing calendars or sending out invitations to join in on activities. Keywords: healing, self care, mental health, relationships, summer, BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month, connection, reconnection, summer, mental health, balance, social activities, personal time, PTO, boundaries, reconnecting, friends, family, strategies, memorable experiences, professional help, safe spaces, self-care, volunteering Takeaways Raising awareness about BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month can lead to positive changes in Black women's mental health by addressing their unique cultural needs and providing a safe space for open conversations. The summer season can have a positive impact on mental health, as it allows for more outdoor activities, socializing, and self-care. It's important to prioritize mental health and take the initiative to educate oneself and others about mental health issues. Creating safe spaces in friendships and relationships where real issues can be discussed is crucial for supporting each other's mental health. Open conversations about mental health can help reduce stigma and make people feel less alone in their struggles. Take PTO during the summer to prioritize personal time and social activities. Set boundaries and learn to say no to overcommitments to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Reconnect with friends and family by sharing calendars or inviting them to join in on activities. Engage in fun physical activities like weighted hula hooping or walking to improve mental health. Support your own mental health by taking breaks, getting adequate sleep, and prioritizing activities that bring joy and relaxation. Support the mental health of others by creating safe spaces for open conversations, offering regular check-ins, and promoting self-care. Consider seeking professional help and encouraging others to do the same. Volunteer together to support the community and build connections

Join Kim, Marquia, and Ednesha as they discuss importance of Juneteenth. Juneteenth is an important celebration for Black communities to reclaim their history and culture. It is crucial for parents to teach their children about Juneteenth and other aspects of Black history, as schools often fail to do so. Celebrating Juneteenth can help people feel more connected to their cultural heritage and create a sense of joy and belonging. It is a form of resistance against erasure and a way to honor the struggles and resilience of Black people. Keyword: shealing, self-care, mental health, Juneteenth, history, struggles, hard conversations, news stories, family reunions, community events, commercialization, erasure, Black history, identity, community, Black rights, Juneteenth, Black history, culture, celebration, resistance, joy, belonging, mental well-being, personal journey, collective journey, connection, community, agenda, cultural practices, elders, art, literature, self-care, therapy Understanding and remembering the history of Juneteenth is important for reconnecting with roots and strengthening identity and community. The erasure of Black history and the suppression of Black voices are ongoing issues. It is crucial to fight for Black rights and to be aware of attempts to control and manipulate historical narratives. Parents should teach their children about Juneteenth and Black history Celebrating Juneteenth can create a sense of joy and connection to cultural heritage Juneteenth is a form of resistance against erasure and a way to honor the struggles and resilience of Black people To maintain connection, community, and well-being, have an agenda, participate in cultural practices, connect with elders, engage in art and literature, practice self-care, and consider therapy --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Marquia, Ednesha, and Kim as they discuss travel and its impact on personal growth and self-discovery. They share their experiences, motivations, and preferences for travel, highlighting the transformative nature of travel and its influence on their lives. The conversation covers the topics of solo travel, group trips, self-care through travel, travel tips, and cultural experiences. They share personal experiences, insights, and practical advice for travelers. Travel provides opportunities for self-discovery and personal growth. Cultural exploration through travel leads to new experiences and perspectives. The style of travel, whether solo or group, impacts the overall experience and relaxation level. Solo travel offers freedom and the opportunity to have unique experiences. Group trips can be enjoyable but require careful curation of travel companions. Travel serves as a form of self-care, allowing individuals to disconnect, recharge, and experience different ways of life. Research and preparation are essential for safe and enjoyable travel experiences. Keywords: travel, self-discovery, personal growth, cultural exploration, solo travel, group travel, transformative experiences, solo travel, group trips, self-care, travel tips, cultural experiences, American men, international travel, travel safety --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Kim, Marquia, and Ednesha as they discuss  the connection between beauty standards, relationships, and mental health for Black women. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the pressure and expectations placed on Black women regarding beauty standards and relationships. They explore the influence of social media, the impact of harmful beauty ideals, and the need for self-care and positive self-image. They emphasize the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive friends and family and resisting conforming to damaging standards. Takeaways Beauty standards can have a significant impact on Black women's mental health and self-esteem. Media, including reality TV shows, often promote unrealistic and toxic relationship ideals. It is important for Black women to challenge societal beauty standards and embrace their own unique beauty. Self-love and self-acceptance are crucial for healthy relationships and overall well-being. Black women face pressure and unrealistic expectations regarding beauty standards and relationships. Social media can be toxic and damaging to self-esteem, so it's important to consume media that positively represents Black women. Prioritizing self-care that nurtures the mind and body is crucial for maintaining a positive self-image. Surrounding oneself with friends and family who reinforce positive messages about beauty and self-worth can provide a strong counterbalance to negative external messages. Resisting conforming to harmful beauty and relationship standards is essential for maintaining one's authenticity and mental well-being. Keywords: beauty standards, relationships, marriage, mental health, Black women, self-love, media, reality TV, beauty standards, relationships, social media, self-care, positive self-image, support --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Ednesha, Marquia, and Kim for a great discussion about the digital detoxing! We're talking about the importance of digital well-being and the need to unplug and set boundaries with technology. We explore the balance between staying informed vs. being overloaded with information and offer tips for maintaining a healthy relationship with technology. Takeaways Unplugging and setting boundaries with technology is essential for digital well-being and mental health. Excessive use of digital devices can lead to exhaustion, eye strain, distraction, sleep disturbances, and decreased productivity. Being intentional about device usage and taking breaks from technology can help maintain a healthy relationship with technology. Prioritizing real-life connections and spending quality time away from screens is crucial for overall well-being. Setting digital boundaries and detoxing from excessive screen time is important for mental well-being. Notifying others and involving them in the detox can help with accountability and support. Finding a healthier balance with technology is essential for maintaining mental well-being. Keywords: digital well-being, unplugging, setting boundaries, addiction, mental health, staying informed, information overload, digital boundaries, digital detox, screen time, social media addiction, mental well-being --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Marquia, Ednesha, and Kim and they wrap up season 3! Looks like we made it... we may have took the long way but nigga we made it. It’s the last episode of the season that never ended. We appreciate y’all being patient and bearing with us this season. We wanted to take some time today to reflect back on this season, some of our favorite moments, things we’ve learned about ourselves and one another, and our wish list for season 4.  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Kim, Marquia, and Ednesha as they talk about communication! Communication is more than just words exchanged… it shapes relationships with yourself and others, our understanding, and ultimately, our well-being. Whether it's spoken or unspoken, communication brings us together, keeps us together and can separate us, or tears us apart. And there are so many things that make up communication: from the words we use, the way we say it, the cadence, the tone, our body language etc.  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Ednesha, Marquia, and Kim for a great discussion about the new year. We’re talking about the New Year and the various resolutions, vision boards, goals and planning that we often talk about every New Year. What does the New Year represent for you? For some of us it represents another chance in life, another year to live, another year in which you can live out your dreams. time of rejoicing and of serious introspection, a time to celebrate the completion of another year while also taking stock of one's life and looking ahead. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Kim, Marquia, and Ednesha as they discuss community care. According to Mental Health America Community care is critical to an individual’s mental health as it responds to the isolating factors often experienced by individuals who may feel disconnected to their community due to life circumstances, the impacts of racism, marginalization, violence, trauma, and other societal factors. Community care enables individuals to find belonging, connection, purpose, and collective support in a welcoming environment. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Ednesha, Marquia, and Kim for a great discussion with Katara McCarty, Founder of EXHALE⁠, the first emotional well-being app designed specifically for Black Women and Women of Color. EXHALE recently published “⁠The State of Self-Care for Black Women⁠” report, providing an in-depth look at Black Women's experience with mental, emotional, and physical health. Some of the findings were: Nearly half of the Black Women surveyed indicate that stress impacts their daily lives, and 25% report being hospitalized or needing medical care due to stress. An overwhelming 76% think there is a prevalence of people who believe Black Women are stronger than most people and should be able to manage more stress than others. And 66% say they overexert themselves to excel in the workplace and to take care of personal responsibilities. While resources to manage stress have become more abundant, the report further confirms that Black Women face many barriers in accessing formal mental health resources, with the majority of resources failing to address the unique experiences of Black Women. As a result, 77% of respondents believe there is a need for more well-being tools and resources tailored to support their specific needs. 47% said there is an insufficient number of well-being resources and tools specifically tailored for Black Women. Katara is a sought-after coach, author, speaker and podcast host, as well as the Founder and CEO of Katecha Corp, a technology startup dedicated to expanding access to health and well-being for Black Women. She is also the founder of Katecha Cares Foundation, a non-profit committed to systemic change that prioritizes and ensures culturally responsive care for Black Women’s mental and emotional health is the norm. Katara is committed to amplifying the richness of Black Women and their stories while advocating for and providing well-being resources through her app EXHALE.  Let us know what you think of this episode on our social media! ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ Check out our website! www.blackwomanbewhole.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Marquia, Ednesha, and Kim for a great discussion with Dr. LaWanda Hill Bout burnout. “Burn-out is a syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. It is characterized by feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion, increased mental distance from one's job, feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one's job, and reduced professional efficacy. Burnout can show up in a lot of different ways Dr. Hill is the owner of Dr. LaWanda Hill, LLC, and Hill Psychological and Consultation Services. Dr. Hill holds both a Doctorate of Philosophy in Counseling Psychology and a Masters's degree in Professional Counseling from the University of Houston as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Southern University and A&M College. Dr. Hill is a licensed psychologist in California and Texas, a consultant, and a curator of transformative spaces. She is a proud native of northern Louisiana and possesses an enduring love for assisting others, specifically Black women, in their journey of self-discovery and holistic growth.  You can find Dr. Hill at the following link: drlawandahill.com Let us know what you think of this episode! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Marquia, Ednesha, and Kim for a great discussion about healing journeys. Healing is not linear, and because you are healing or have healed from something, it's okay if you still get triggered or revisit the same issue. When you think of healing/being healed, what does that look like/mean for you? What are some ways that your triggers show up for you? When you think of a thing/person/incident, you’re healing from. Is there a specific scenario that comes to mind and how do you handle when those old feelings pop up? What or who are the supports you have in place as you navigate your healing? Let us know what you think of this episode on our social media! ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ Check out our website! www.blackwomanbewhole.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Ednesha, Marquia, and Kim for a discussion about Social Wellness Month July is considered Social Wellness Month as well as BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month, National family Reunion Month, National Watermelon month, National Black Family Month, and National Grilling Month amongst other things. Since the early 2000s it’s been used as a way to encourage people to practice healthy social behaviors and build meaningful relationships with others. Social wellness is all about fostering positive connections, not just with family and friends, but also with our communities, colleagues, and strangers we meet at the bar, library, park or anywhere on your journey. Our social wellness is just as important as our physical and mental wellness. Having healthy meaningful relationships in your life is a vital component of your well-being. Let us know what you think of this episode on our social media! ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ Check out our website! www.blackwomanbewhole.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Kim, Marquia, and Ednesha as they discuss the importance of mid-year check-ins We're halfway through 2023 and we thought it would be fitting to discuss mid year check in and making the most of the rest of your year. Looking at the things you said you were going to do, the things that you said were important to you and checking in to see if those things are still relevant and how you're doing with them.  The most basic question you can ask yourself is How am I doing so far on the personal and professional goals I set for this year?  How do you feel about what has happened this first half of the year? What have been my proudest accomplishments so far this year? M/E/K Have you been building and cultivating your relationships?  Have you been taking care of your mental and emotional needs? Let us know what you think of this episode on our social media! ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ Check out our website! www.blackwomanbewhole.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Ednesha, Kim, and Marquia as they talk about the harmful and unsustainable Strong Black Woman trope. As a result, we are suffering from depression and anxiety, and sacrificing our mental, emotional, and physical health trying to live up to this unrealistic expectation. Black women need support from their families, and communities, to be vulnerable and to redefine what "strong" really means. For more information on Black Woman Be Whole, check out the links below: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackwomanbewhole/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blackwomanbewhole/ ***We want to hear from YOU!*** Drop us a note and let us know your thoughts about this episode.​ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join Marquia, Ednesha, and Kim for a great discussion with Dr. LaWanda Hill Bout burnout. “Burn-out is a syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. It is characterized by feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion, increased mental distance from one's job, feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one's job, and reduced professional efficacy. Burnout can show up in a lot of different ways Dr. Hill is the owner of Dr. LaWanda Hill, LLC, and Hill Psychological and Consultation Services. Dr. Hill holds both a Doctorate of Philosophy in Counseling Psychology and a Masters's degree in Professional Counseling from the University of Houston as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Southern University and A&M College. Dr. Hill is a licensed psychologist in California and Texas, a consultant, and a curator of transformative spaces. She is a proud native of northern Louisiana and possesses an enduring love for assisting others, specifically Black women, in their journey of self-discovery and holistic growth.  You can find Dr. Hill at the following link: drlawandahill.com Let us know what you think of this episode! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message

Join, Ednesha, Kim, and Marquia as they discuss self-care, the messages they received about self-care, and the impact of that on them now.  They examine what is it like being a Black woman who chooses to focus on self-care, while trying to not feeling selfish, and the many ways they access self-care. Lastly, they talk about their decision to be self-care advocates and what they want Black women to know about the importance of taking care of themselves. For more information on Black Woman Be Whole, check out the links below: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackwomanbewhole/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blackwomanbewhole/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/black-woman-be-whole/message