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Welcome Back! As we settle into the rhythm of 2025, let’s continue to enrich our minds and expand our horizons. This week’s edition of “Reflecting On” is brimming with insights and stories designed to spark curiosity and foster growth. From the elegance of fashion exhibitions to the practicalities of everyday life enhancements, each article invites you to embrace new perspectives and challenge your norms. So, get comfortable and delve into a curated selection of reads that promise to enlighten and entertain.

Read

• Artistry Unveiled: Delve into the intricacies of Dolce & Gabbana’s Alta Moda exhibition in Paris, a celebration of heart and craft. Explore the Exhibition
• Wardrobe Wisdom: Gain insights on how to make your wardrobe work better for you this year. Smart Tips on TheEverygirl
• Quiet Luxury: Understand how the quiet luxury movement is influencing the fashion industry’s approach to authenticity over imitation. Insights from Vogue Business
• A New Year of Yes: Shonda Rhimes inspires us to embrace the possibilities that come with saying yes to life’s opportunities. Read on Shondaland
• Friendship and Finances: Navigate the tricky waters of discussing money with friends to maintain healthy relationships. Financial Guidance from PS
• Thrifting Like a Pro: Uncover expert strategies for scoring the best finds while thrifting. Thrifting Guide on TheEverygirl
• Cherish Idleness: Rediscover the joy of doing absolutely nothing with your favorite people. Reflections from Self
• Beyoncé Bowl: Unpack the deeper meanings behind every costume detail at Beyoncé’s unforgettable performance. Fashion Insights by Harper’s Bazaar
• Affordable Escapes: Explore six budget-friendly beach destinations loved by Black women. Travel Tips fromSisters From AARP

Watch

• The Six Triple Eight: Discover the untold stories of the only all-Black, all-woman battalion in World War II. Watch on YouTube

Listen

• Estate Planning 101: Equip yourself with the knowledge to plan thoughtfully for the future with Therapy for Black Girls. Listen and Learn

In Closing:

As we march forward in 2025, let’s carry the momentum of new beginnings throughout the year. Each week, we strive to bring you stories that not only inform but also inspire a richer, more deliberate life. Thank you for joining us on this journey of reflection and discovery. Here’s to finding joy in the little things and making every moment count. Stay curious, stay inspired, and above all, stay connected with us at “Reflecting On.”

Welcome to the final edition of “Reflecting On” for 2024. As the year draws to a close, we take a moment to ponder on the fleeting moments and lasting impressions of the past months. This week’s collection of articles, watches, and listens is curated to inspire reflection and anticipation for what lies ahead. May these selections serve as food for thought as you transition into the new year.

Read

• Art Meets Fashion: Dive into Takashi Murakami’s reflections on his iconic Louis Vuitton collection, celebrating two decades of vibrant collaboration. Read on Vogue
• Luxury’s Lament: Explore critical perspectives on the soaring prices and perceived declining quality within the luxury goods industry. The New York Times critiques
• Fashion for All: Investigate the ongoing challenges and strides towards true size diversity in fashion. Insight fromThe New York Times
• The Joy of Nothing: Discover why spending downtime with loved ones can be the best form of rejuvenation. Selfexplains
• Emotional Maturity: Learn to recognize signs of emotional immaturity in conversations and how to navigate them. Guidance from Sisters From AARP

Watch

• Halftime Magic: Don’t miss Beyoncé’s electrifying performance at the NFL Christmas halftime show 2024, set to captivate and thrill. Ensure you catch this spectacular event.

Listen

• Intentional Living: Embrace a new approach to New Year’s resolutions with “New Year, New Mindfulness,” focusing on thoughtful intentions and self-compassion. Listen on Amazon Music
• Holiday Vibes: Join Questlove for a unique Christmas experience on ‘Fresh Air,’ perfect for holiday relaxation. Tune in on NPR

In Closing:

As we say goodbye to 2024, let’s carry forward the lessons learned and the joy experienced into 2025. May the articles and insights from this week inspire you to enter the new year with curiosity and enthusiasm. Thank you for sharing this year with us at “Reflecting On.” Here’s to a refreshing start and a fulfilling new year!

Welcome to this week’s edition of “Reflecting On,” where we embrace the festive spirit and a fresh perspective on personal growth.
As we step into the bustling holiday season and the closing chapters of the year, it’s the perfect time to enrich our minds with insightful reads, captivating watches, and soul-soothing tunes. This selection is crafted to inspire, challenge, and delight you as you wind down the year.

Read

• Biographies and Memoirs: Dive into the top biographies and memoirs of the year and find inspiration in the lives of others. Explore on NPR
• Discover Your Style: Uncover your personal style with actionable tips that promise lasting wardrobe happiness. Read more on The Everygirl
• Financial Resolutions: Kickstart your financial goals with expert advice for the new year. Learn more at CharlesSchwab
• Holiday Heartstrings: Thinking about reaching out to an ex? Pause and read this first. Check out Popsugar
• Signs of Overdoing It: Recognize when you’re stretched too thin and learn how to step back for a breather. Insights from Sisters From AARP
• Photogenic Tips: Discover how to look your best in photos with confidence-boosting techniques. NPR has thesecrets
• Medical Advocacy: Learn how to identify and address medical gaslighting effectively. Popsugar explains
• Accepting Imperfections: Understand why you can’t ‘fix’ everyone and how to embrace acceptance. Self delvesdeeper

Watch

• Hermès Spotlight: Discover the story behind Hermès and the iconic Birkin bag on “60 Minutes.” Watch here

Listen

• Holiday Tunes by Robert Glasper: Refresh your holiday playlist with the unique sounds of Robert Glasper’s Christmas album. Listen on YouTube

In Closing:

This week, as you navigate the complexities of personal connections and self-awareness, let each article serve as a guide to better understanding yourself and the world around you. Embrace the end of the year with an open heart and an open mind—ready to learn, ready to grow. Happy reading, happy watching, and happy listening!

Welcome to this week’s edition of “Reflecting On.”
As the year winds down and the holiday cheer ramps up, it’s a wonderful time to explore realms of personal growth, love, and self-care. This week, our selection touches on everything from relationship insights to navigating the changes life throws our way. Grab your favorite winter drink, get cozy, and let’s dive into these thought-provoking reads and exciting listens.

Read

• Nikki Giovanni’s Universe: Explore the profound and impactful works of Nikki Giovanni and get inspired by her poetic prowess.
• Stepping Out: Discover expert advice on moving beyond your comfort zone to embrace life’s challenges. Readmore
• Love’s Green Flag: Learn about the dating sign that could signal it’s time to take a leap of faith in love. Divedeeper
• Understanding Menopause: Join The Menopause Society to gain insights into menopause and its effects. Visitnow
• Perimenopause Explained: Is it just heat or something more? Unpack the early signs of menopause. Explore
• Reverse Gift List: A strategy to reduce holiday stress by flipping the script on traditional gift-giving. Learn how
• Color of the Year – Mocha Mousse: Embrace the warmth and versatility of Pantone’s new color for a stylish year ahead. See the color
• Romanticize Your Winter: 27 enchanting ways to add a magical touch to the chilly season. Get inspired
• Talking to Strangers: Reconsider the old warning and find out the benefits of making new connections. Read why
• Letting Go: Accepting that you can’t ‘fix’ others can be liberating. Learn to make peace with it. Understand more

Watch

• Jamie Foxx and Daughter: Don’t miss Jamie Foxx and his daughter light up the stage in their latest performance.

Listen

• Doechii at Tiny Desk: Enjoy the vibrant and energetic performance of Doechii at NPR’s Tiny Desk. Watch now

In Closing:

This week, as we explore from the pages of introspection to the steps of the Emerald City, let each story guide you towards a fuller, more vibrant understanding of yourself and the world around you. Remember, the journey is as wonderful as the destination. Happy reading, and happy reflecting!

 

Welcome to this week’s Reflecting On!

As the days shorten and the year draws to a close, it’s a perfect time to dive into stories and insights that challenge, comfort, and inspire us. Whether it’s exploring the depths of personal growth or understanding the nuances of cultural phenomena, each article is selected to enrich your perspective. Let’s embrace the wisdom and wanderings this week offers!

Read

A Hidden Racial Divide in Health
Explore a compelling analysis on psychosis and race within America, shedding light on long-overlooked disparities. Readmore

Unraveling Our Voice Aversion
Delve into the science behind why the sound of our own voice often makes us cringe. Discover why

5 Strategies to Shine Before Year’s End
Empower yourself with five transformative strategies to ensure you end 2024 on a high note. Learn more

Casual Comfort with Saweetie
Join Saweetie as she shares her simple joys, from vintage Disney to cozy socks, on her days off. Take a peek

Journey to Wellness After 40
Explore how travel can profoundly impact health and weight loss, especially after 40. Read the full story

Friendship and Fitness Combined
Uncover a joyous method to forge strong connections while staying fit. Read how

The Emotional Toll of Online Shopping
A reflective piece on how virtual retail therapy might not be as therapeutic as we hope. Understand more

Becoming More Fascinating
Sprinkle a little intrigue into your life with these seven habits that promise to make you captivate any room. Discover thehabits

Rethinking Gift Giving
Ease your holiday stress with a fresh perspective on why striving for the perfect gift might be unnecessary. Explore theidea

Listen

Soulful Tunes by Teedra Moses
Experience the melodic and heartfelt performance of Teedra Moses in her latest Tiny Desk Concert. Enjoy the concert

As we navigate another bustling week, let’s take a moment to reflect on our interactions and the quiet spaces between our tasks. Whether it’s through insightful readings or soul-stirring melodies, each moment offers a chance to grow and glow. Enjoy diving into this week’s selection, crafted to enlighten, educate, and inspire.

 

Welcome back to another edition of “Reflecting On.” This week, we invite you to explore a dynamic range of articles that not only highlight the artistry of costume design but also delve into sports narratives, emotional intelligence, and self-improvement. Join us as we traverse different landscapes—from the racetracks of F1 to the emotional terrains of our relationships.

Read:

1. I See You OHIO! Dressing for the Emerald City by The New York Times. Dive into the mesmerizing world of costume design for the anticipated movie adaptation of “Wicked,” featuring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. Read here.
2. Grandma with Chunky Sunglasses Becomes Unlikely Fashion Icon by BBC. A delightful tale of how age is just a number in the fashion world, featuring a grandma who’s setting trends. Read here.
3. These Black F1 Fans Are Changing the Narrative Around the Sport by Popsugar. Explore how Black fans are reshaping the F1 viewing experience and bringing new perspectives to the motorsports community. Read here.
4. What to Ask When a Loved One is Upset by Sisters From AARP. Gain insight on the right questions to ask to offer support without overstepping boundaries. Read here.
5. 5 Signs You Complain Too Much—and What to Do Instead by Self. Reflect on whether your venting habits are constructive or if they’re spiraling into negativity, and learn how to adjust. Read here.
6. Here’s What That ‘Little Treat’ Can—and Can’t—Do For You by PS. Discover the psychological and emotional impacts of treating yourself and when it helps versus when it doesn’t. Read here.

Listen: Dive into “Gather Me” by Glory Edim, a memoir that narrates the journey of finding one’s identity amidst the challenges and triumphs of life. Listen and be inspired by the story of resilience and self-discovery. Listen here.

Since we mentioned Well Read Black Girls very own Glory Edim, here’s a starter list of must-read memoirs from WRBG:

• Gather Me by Glory Edim
• I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou
• Breathe: A Letter to My Sons by Imani Perry
• Wrong Is Not My Name by Erica Cardwell
• Memorial Drive by Natasha Trethewey
• Letter to My Daughter by Maya Angelou
• Finding Me by Viola Davis
• Bone Black by bell hooks
• Somebody’s Daughter by Ashley C. Ford
• How To Say Babylon by Safiya Sinclair
• Undiplomatic by Deesha Dyer
• White Supremacy Is All Around by Dr. Akilah Cadet
• Thicker Than Water by Kerry Washington
• Lessons for Survival by Emily Raboteau

These memoirs explore a breadth of experiences and are an essential addition to anyone’s reading list, providing deep insights into personal and collective histories of resilience and identity.

Closing: This week, as we reflect on the myriad ways our lives intersect with culture, relationships, and self-awareness, let’s embrace the learning and growth that come from diverse experiences and perspectives. Each story we’ve shared today invites us to think deeper, feel more profoundly, and engage more authentically with the world around us. Thank you for joining us on this journey of reflection and discovery. May you find inspiration and insight in every page you turn and every story you encounter.

Welcome to this week’s edition of the Reflecting On newsletter! As the holiday season fast approaches, it’s the perfect time to celebrate and support Black-owned businesses. Dive into our curated selection of insightful reads and stirring discussions, highlighting everything from must-shop brands to thought-provoking commentary on today’s cultural and wellness landscapes.

Read:

1. I Shop For a Living — Here Are the Black-Owned Brands I’m Gifting This Holiday by Popsugar. Discover Jessica Andrews’ top picks for gifting this holiday season and why she chooses these vibrant, Black-owned brands. Read here.
2. A Luxury Giant, a Reclusive Heir and the Case of the Missing $13 Billion by The Wall Street Journal. Dive into the mysterious world of luxury, exploring a high-stakes drama involving an Hermes heir. Read here.
3. The Fearmongering in the Wellness Industry Has Gone Too Far by The Everygirl. A critical look at how fear is used to drive wellness trends and what that means for consumers. Read here.
4. Here’s The Thing My Younger Self Never Would Have Dreamed I’d Do by Sisters From AARP. Delve into personal stories of unexpected life journeys and the surprises they bring. Read here.
5. It’s Time to Own Being Grown and Sexy by Sisters From AARP. Embrace the confidence that comes with age in this empowering reflection on maturity and style. Read here.
6. So THAT’S Why You Need Noise To Fall Asleep by HuffPost. Explore the science behind why some people need background noise to drift off to sleep. Read here.
7. How Weaponized Incompetence Could Be Hurting Your Relationship by Popsugar. Uncover how this behavior pattern can undermine relationships and ways to address it. Read here.

Listen: Quincy Jones’s Legacy in 14 Essential Songs by The New York Times. Celebrate the musical genius of Quincy Jones through his most iconic songs. Listen here.

Closing: This week’s lineup invites us to look deeper into the narratives that shape our perceptions and daily choices. From challenging the norms of the wellness industry to celebrating Black excellence in various fields, each article offers a unique perspective designed to enrich, educate, and inspire. As always, thank you for taking this journey with us. Stay curious, stay informed, and let’s continue to support and uplift each other.

Welcome to this week’s edition of “Reflecting On,” a curated selection of thought-provoking reads and essential insights aimed at enriching our understanding and improving our interpersonal dynamics. As we navigate through the complexities of human relationships and personal development, this week’s articles offer valuable perspectives and strategies.

Read:

• From wanting to be challenged to predicting breakups – Dive into the thoughts your therapist might be having that could reshape your understanding of therapy.
• AMERICANS ARE HOARDING THEIR FRIENDS – Explore the social phenomenon of friend-hoarding and its psychological implications.
• The Jheri Curl Is Back and Better Than Ever – Celebrate the return of a dynamic hairstyle and what it signifies culturally.
• You’re Probably Ruining Relationships With This Passive-Aggressive Behavior – Understand the impact of the silent treatment on your relationships and how to address it.
• A Foolproof Way to Respond to Awkward Personal Questions – Learn tactics to handle invasive queries gracefully.
• The Importance of Having a “Couch Friend” – Discover the significance of having a friend with whom you can be utterly at ease.

Resources – Therapy for Black Girls:

3 Self-Care Tips to Get You Through Election Day:

1. 1. Black Women Been Ready – A powerful read on the resilience and leadership of Black women in politics. ✊🏾
   2. Why Representation Matters to Black Lives – Discover how seeing ourselves in positions of power impacts our mental health and well-being.
   3. Managing Anxiety in the Workplace After the Election – Useful strategies to stay calm and collected, especially in high-stress environments.

Closing Thoughts: This collection of articles is designed to provide you with the knowledge and tools necessary for personal growth, deeper social understanding, and improved mental health. Whether it’s strengthening your relationships, enhancing self-awareness, or simply finding joy in the everyday, let these readings inspire you to reflect and act towards a more fulfilling life. Thank you for joining us this week, and may you find both comfort and challenge in these stories.

Welcome to this week’s edition of “Reflecting On,” where we delve into practices, narratives, and innovations that can elevate our daily lives. As the autumn leaves turn and the evenings draw in, let’s gather knowledge and inspiration from various corners to enhance our wellbeing and understanding.

Read:

• How I Time Workouts to Boost My Productivity and Improve My Focus – Discover the symbiotic relationship between physical activity and mental clarity.
• How to Make New Friends as an Adult, With Input From an Expert – Navigate the complexities of forming meaningful connections in adulthood.
• COMIC: Science-backed mood boosters – A visual guide to quick strategies for lifting your spirits.
• ‘Sunset Anxiety’ Is a Real Thing – Explore why the transition from day to night might feel unsettling.
• Inside the making of What We Do In The Shadows’ final season – Peek behind the curtain of this popular series’ last hurrah.
• Toni Vaz, Stuntwoman and Founder of N.A.A.C.P. Image Awards, Dies at 101 – Reflect on the impactful life of a pioneering figure in Hollywood.
• 5 Things People of Color Need to Know About Eczema – Essential insights into managing and understanding eczema in communities of color.

Resources:

• Therapy for Black Girls offers a comprehensive directory and community to support mental health and foster connections:
  • Find a therapist
  • Join the Sister Circle community
  • Learn about friendships in ‘Sisterhood Heals’

Closing Thoughts: This week’s selection is a reminder of the importance of mental and physical health, the power of community, and the legacies that shape our society. As you move through your week, may these readings offer new perspectives and tools for personal growth and connection. Thank you for taking this time to reflect with us. Let’s carry these insights forward, enriching our lives and those around us.