Valentine's Day often highlights our romantic relationships, but it's also a perfect time to reflect on the love we offer ourselves. Inspired by the teachings of bell hooks, I encourage you to look inward and ask if you're providing yourself with the same level of acceptance and love that you seek from others. Her poignant reminder that "You can never love anybody if you are unable to love yourself" is a powerful call to embrace self-love not just today but every day.

As we reflect on the state of wellness in Black America this February, it's clear that the journey to health—mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual—is fraught with challenges yet filled with potential. My workshops often end with heartfelt confessions from women of color who admit to neglecting their self-care. These admissions are a crucial first step. The real question becomes about commitment: How ready are we to invest our time, energy, and resources into genuinely healing ourselves? Here, I explore the profound necessity of breaking free from the chains of our past to reclaim our well-being and honor our ancestors.

As the New Year approaches, I reflect on a pivotal moment from my recent cross-country road trip. Upon receiving mixed course evaluations—something new for me—I learned an invaluable lesson in accepting and utilizing feedback. This experience reminded me of the importance of separating constructive criticism from mere noise, recognizing our achievements, and identifying areas for personal growth. Join me as we explore using life's feedback to refocus and create a more fulfilling future.

This Thanksgiving, amidst the joy of perfect mac and cheese and the magic of "Home Alone" played by the NC Symphony, I reflected on our roles within our families. Traditionally cast in the role of caretaker from a young age, I have consciously shifted towards a role that allows me to enjoy being a daughter, sister, and aunt on my terms. This holiday season marks a significant transition in how I interact with my family, moving away from exhausting obligations towards mutual respect and personal happiness.

As the holidays roll in, so do the endless offerings of food. This season, from holiday parties to leftover casseroles, challenges even the most health-conscious among us. But fear not! Here are practical tips to enjoy the festivities without compromising your well-being. Learn how to savor your favorite dishes, incorporate physical activity, and balance your eating habits throughout the most "gluttonous" time of the year.

As someone known for action, I often found myself rushing through the milestones of starting my own business, driven by a "get it done now" mentality. However, a pivotal insight from my sister circle reminded me to "enjoy the journey," transforming my approach to life and work. This shift allowed me to appreciate the small victories and understand that slowing down can be just as productive as speeding through tasks. Join me as I share how embracing patience has enriched my personal and professional life, helping me grow and thrive unexpectedly.

Last week at a mindfulness workshop in Durham, a seemingly trivial chat about the weather with fellow professionals became a profound connection over shared childhood experiences. This unexpected moment of vulnerability led to a heartfelt "me too" exchange, highlighting the transformative power of sharing and receiving personal stories. As a coach, these moments reinforce the importance of vulnerability in fostering genuine connections and healing for myself and those I guide.

As hurricane season unfolds, it’s a potent reminder of the storms we encounter, from the literal to the symbolic. Storms, while disruptive, are influential teachers. They bring communities together, change our behaviors, test our foundations, and teach us about resilience. Understanding the lessons storms teach can help us navigate the mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges, transforming turmoil into opportunities for growth and deeper connection.