bewellsis_podcast

I had the pleasure of speaking with the incredible Dr. Chinwe Williams, a trauma therapist and bestselling author, who shared invaluable insights on emotional resilience for both kids and parents. Here are three key takeaways from our enlightening conversation: Understanding the Signs of Mental Health Distress: Dr. Williams emphasized that mental health issues in children and adolescents can manifest differently than in adults. While adults may express their struggles through sadness or withdrawal, young people often display anger, irritability, or defiance. It’s crucial for parents to recognize these signs and understand that they may indicate deeper emotional challenges. By fostering open communication and checking in regularly, we can better support our children’s mental health. The Impact of Modern Stressors: We discussed how today’s youth face unique stressors that we didn’t encounter in our own childhoods. From the pervasive influence of social media to the anxiety stemming from global events, today’s children are navigating a complex world. Dr. Williams pointed out that nearly one in three teenagers will experience an anxiety disorder, highlighting the importance of being proactive in addressing mental health. As parents and caregivers, we must create safe spaces for our children to express their feelings and seek help when needed. The Importance of Self-Care for Parents: Caring for our children’s mental health starts with us. Dr. Williams shared practical self-care strategies that parents can implement to maintain their own well-being. From scheduling time for relaxation to engaging in activities that bring joy, prioritizing our mental health allows us to be more present and supportive for our children. Remember, it’s not about being perfect; it’s about being “good enough” and consistently showing up for our kids. Be Well, Sis is available on your favorite podcast app and Youtube! Tune in!

In this episode, we dive deep into the science of habit formation and how we can leverage our brain’s natural tendencies to create positive changes in our lives. Here are three key takeaways that I believe will resonate with many of you: 🌿Understanding the Habit Loop: Every behavior we engage in follows a pattern known as the habit loop, which consists of three key elements: cue, routine, and reward. By identifying these components in our daily habits, we can begin to understand why we do what we do. For instance, if you find yourself mindlessly scrolling on your phone at night, recognize that the cue might be getting into bed, the routine is scrolling, and the reward is the dopamine hit from engaging content. Awareness is the first step toward change! 🌿Harnessing Neuroplasticity: Our brains are capable of forming new pathways, a concept known as neuroplasticity. This means that we can rewire our habits over time. Just like learning a new route to a familiar destination, establishing new habits requires conscious effort and repetition. By intentionally changing our environment and cues, we can create new routines that align with our goals. For example, if you want to wake up earlier, consider placing your phone out of reach at night to avoid late-night scrolling. 🌿Practical Strategies for Success: Implementing new habits doesn’t have to be overwhelming. I shared practical strategies like habit stacking—pairing a new habit with an existing one—and environmental design, which involves setting up your space to support your goals. For instance, if you want to eat healthier, prepare nutritious snacks in advance so they’re easily accessible. Remember, small changes can lead to significant results over time! Have you tuned in yet? Tune in on your favorite podcast player! Be well, Sis.

🍽️ What does an “eating imbalance” look like? In our latest episode, with @blackandembodied , we redefine how we think about our relationship with food and our bodies. Discover how to nourish yourself and find balance in a world that often tells us otherwise. I’m excited to share the conversation on Be Well, Sis, where I had the incredible opportunity to speak with Alishia McCullough, author of Reclaiming the Black Body. This conversation was not only enlightening but also deeply resonant, especially because of the recent events that have left many of us feeling exhausted and overwhelmed. I encourage you all to listen to this episode and reflect on these takeaways. Let’s start a conversation about how we can reclaim our bodies, prioritize our well-being, and support one another in this journey. The Be Well, Sis podcast can be found on your favorite podcast player and YouTube- tune in!

I had the pleasure of speaking with @dr.zann - certified perinatal mental health clinician and childbirth educator on all things relating to the perinatal period. Our convo is packed with insights that are not only relevant for birthing people but for everyone in our community. Here are my top three takeaways from this episode: 🌿The Importance of Representation in Perinatal Care: Dr. Zann emphasizes how crucial it is for birthing people to have providers who understand their unique experiences. Representation matters! Having a provider who looks like you or shares similar life experiences can make a world of difference in feeling seen, heard, and supported during such a transformative time. This is especially vital for Black and queer birthing folks, who often face additional challenges in traditional healthcare settings. 🌿The Power of Community Support: We discussed how vital it is for friends and family to educate themselves about the perinatal experience. Instead of asking, “How can I help?” when someone is in postpartum, it’s more effective to come prepared with specific offers of support. Whether it’s dropping off meals, helping with baby care, or simply being present, understanding the needs of new parents can alleviate some of the overwhelming pressure they face. Remember, it’s about creating a supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable and cared for. 🌿Healing Through Cultural Practices: Dr. Zann shared beautiful insights about incorporating cultural practices into postpartum care, such as the Closing of the Bones ceremony and the Tukula ceremony. These traditions not only honor the birthing experience but also provide essential healing for the body and spirit. It’s a reminder of the importance of connecting with our roots and the wisdom of our ancestors during significant life transitions. Can’t wait for you to tune in- if you haven’t already! Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast player. Be Well,Sis.

🔍 Did you know that many women of color are at a higher risk for thyroid issues? This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with @drromie, a board-certified physician and author of The Busy Brain Cure. Our conversation was not only enlightening but also packed with actionable insights that I believe can truly help us navigate the challenges of chronic stress and busy brains. Here are three key takeaways from our discussion that I think you’ll find valuable: 🌿Understanding the Busy Brain: Dr. Romie breaks down what a “busy brain” really means. It’s not just about having a lot on your plate; it’s a state of chronic stress that can lead to symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, and difficulty focusing. Many of us might dismiss these feelings as just part of life, but recognizing them as signs of a busy brain is the first step toward healing. If you’ve ever found yourself wide awake at 3 a.m. with a million thoughts racing through your mind, you’re not alone! 🌿The Importance of Thyroid Health: We often overlook how our thyroid health impacts our mental well-being, especially as women of color. Dr. Romie emphasizes the need for a comprehensive thyroid panel, as many common symptoms of thyroid dysfunction can manifest as mental health issues. If you’re feeling off, it’s crucial to advocate for yourself and ensure that your healthcare provider checks all necessary labs. Remember, your health is your wealth! 🌿Actionable Steps to Combat Stress: Dr. Romie shares practical strategies to help manage a busy brain, including the “Do, Delegate, Ditch” method. This approach encourages us to identify what tasks we need to focus on, what we can delegate to others, and what we can simply let go of. Additionally, incorporating sound healing and taking intentional brain pauses can significantly improve our mental clarity and overall well-being. This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling overwhelmed, struggling with chronic stress/mental. Let’s break t

✨ We’ve done the talk therapy. We’ve processed. We’ve analyzed. But what about the wisdom our bodies hold? @thatgirl_jmarie, founder and author of @blackgirlsbreathing, breaks down why breathwork isn’t just another wellness trend – it’s a powerful tool for releasing trauma stored deep in our bodies. Because sis, sometimes the healing we need isn’t in our minds, but in our breath. 🫁 Her new book “Black Girls Breathing” isn’t just about breathing techniques – it’s about rewiring those subconscious beliefs that keep us stuck and choosing a new lens to view life through. One that isn’t clouded by past traumas, disappointments, or mistakes. Tune into the full episode on your favorite podcast app or catch the visual on YouTube (link in bio) to learn how to use your breath as a pathway to deeper healing. 🎧 #BlackGirlsBreathing #BlackWellness #Breathwork #TraumaHealing #BlackMentalHealth #Healing #SelfCare #BlackWomen #WellnessJourney #BeWellSis

This conversation could not have come at a better time! We had this conversation just days after the election results and by the end of the convo, my spirit felt so much lighter, brighter, and clearer. The brilliant Tracey Michae’l Lewis-Giggetts, author of Black Joy and the Black Joy Playbook: 30 Days of Intentionally Reclaiming Your Delight, and I discussed how joy is an inside job that requires cultivation, how to cultivate it, and how grief can lead to a deeper understanding of joy. This conversation is a must listen especially if you’re navigating through your feelings and concerns for what the next 4 years will bring. Be Well, Sis is available on all podcast streaming platforms and YouTube!

And these Black girls turn into Black women who don’t give themselves the time or space to process. Why? Black girls routinely experience Adultification Bias. Black girls feel they have been stereotyped to act older than their age. As a result, they felt they received less protection or nurturing from adults.This week’s conversation is all about nurturing, and features Ashley Iman who is the author of Ruby Renee Had So Much to Say, a children’s book that encourages young girls to embrace their curiosity and is beautiful reminder for us adults to nurture the little ones in our lives.

In this episode, @theptonomad shares her journey from news reporter to travel expert, content creator, & self-care advocate. The conversation delves into the significance of planning travel for mental well-being, prioritizing self-care, and the systemic issues affecting the perception of African heritage globally. #wellness #wellnesspodcast #bewellsis #selfcare

Came on camera cause I needed to document a good hair day AND remind you that every Wednesday is a brand new episode of the podcast. #bewellsis #wellnesspodcast #podcast

In this episode, I had an insightful conversation with Dana Roberts, the co-founder of Red Drop, a tween-focused feminine care brand. We delved into the importance of empowering tweens and teens to better understand their periods and navigate the changes in their bodies. Here are three key takeaways from this episode: Start the Conversation Early: It's crucial to start conversations about menstrual health and puberty early on with young girls. By providing them with accurate information and the right products, we can empower them to feel confident and informed about their bodies. Support Caregivers: Red Drop not only focuses on providing products for tweens but also offers resources and education for caregivers. By supporting parents, teachers, and other caretakers, we can ensure that girls receive the guidance and support they need during this important transition. Destigmatize Menstruation: By normalizing conversations about periods and the human body, we can help reduce the stigma surrounding menstruation. Open and honest discussions can empower girls to advocate for their own health and well-being. If you haven’t already- definitely tune in especially if you’re a parent, educator, care-taker, or simply in community with young people navigating puberty. Be Well, Sis.