Rest Sis
Today, on National Black Women's Day of Rest, I'm calling for a revolution. ✊🏾 We're reclaiming our right to pause, to breathe, to simply be. For generations, we've carried the weight of the world, embodying the 'I make it do what it do' spirit. We've pushed ourselves to the brink, echoing phrases like, 'I'll rest when I'm dead' or 'If I don't do it, who will?' But today, we lay those burdens down. They are not ours to carry.
Did you know that Black women are disproportionately affected by stress-related illnesses? Studies show we experience higher rates of hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease, often linked to the chronic stress of systemic racism and societal pressures. 💔 We're also more likely to be caregivers, juggling work, family, and community responsibilities, leading to burnout.
I learned this the hard way. I was a burnout statistic, driven by the need to prove my worth, living by the mantra of working 10 times harder than everyone else. I was always 'on,' always available. The result? Insomnia, resentment, work mistakes, strained relationships, high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, a diabetes diagnosis, and uncontrollable PCOS flares. My mental health suffered, anxiety and depression crept in, and I was forced to stop.
Looking back, I know I could have avoided so much. If I had simply said, 'No, today I rest,' if I had set boundaries, I wouldn't have faced the medical expenses, the work setbacks, the damaged relationships. Preventive self-care is not a luxury; it's a necessity.
That's why, in 2025, I don't wait for a national day of rest. I rest daily. I prioritize self-care as a non-negotiable part of my life.
For my girlies who don’t know where to start, here's your Guide to Revolutionary Rest:
Daily Rest Rituals:
💃 Dance it Out: Put on your favorite music and dance in your living room.
🛁 Soak it Up: Indulge in a hot bath with music and aromatherapy.
🌳 Nature Walk: Leave your phone behind and connect with nature.
Intentional Self-Care for Deeper Restoration:
🎨 Creative Expression: Paint, write, color, or engage in any creative activity that brings you joy.
🍽️ Mindful Eating: Savor your meals, paying attention to the textures, tastes, and the effort that went into preparing them.
🧘 Mindfulness and Breathing Exercises: Practice mindfulness to stay present and centered.
✍️ Journaling: Use a journal to process your thoughts and emotions.
Boundary Setting:
🚫 Learn to Say No: It's okay to decline requests that drain your energy.
⏱️ Set Time Limits: Establish clear boundaries for work and other commitments.
🛡️ Protect Your Time: Prioritize your self-care time as non-negotiable.
Workplace Actions:
🥪 Take Your Lunch Break: Step away from your desk and fully disconnect.
⏰ Clock Out On Time: When your workday ends, leave work behind.
☀️ Enjoy Sunshine: If possible, take a moment to be outside.
Preventative Self-Care:
👂 Listen to your body: Pay attention to the signals your body gives you.
🧠 Prioritize mental health: Seek help when you need it.
🩺 Regular health checkups: Schedule and keep your appointments.
This National Black Women's Day of Rest, and every day forward, I urge you to be revolutionary about your rest. Prioritize yourself, set boundaries, and embrace self-care. Your well-being is worth it.
Love,
The Browngirl - Creator of The Browngirl Experience
#BlackWomenRest #SelfCare #RevolutionaryRest #MentalHealth #Wellness #BlackHealth"
