Category: Reflection

Here’s what I’ve been reflecting on this week. As Haruki Murakam once said, “If you only read the books that everyone else is reading, you can only think what everyone else is thinking.” I believe this is applicable to everything we read.

 

 

READ

I use Thinx all the time especially when I travel. Softdisc were my go to before I learned about Nixit. Prior to my prolapses Nixit was the only thing I used which is a more sustainable option than Softdisc. This list is a MUST see. These 11 Convenient Period Products Are the Move the Next Time You Travel, POPSUGAR

Yes, please and thank you! How Toni Morrison Wrote Her Most Challenging Novel, The New York Times

Interesting. Black or Bot? The Long, Sordid History of Co-opting Blackness Online, Mother Jones

Loving this! Wonder what Tina Turner thinks. Mattel Introduces Tina Turner Barbie Doll To Celebrate 40th Anniversary of “What’s Love Got To Do With It”, My Modern Met

I’m not a believer in forgive and forget. I forgive and let go with reflection, time and applying tons of grace. What Is Toxic Forgiveness? And Is It Really Possible to “Forgive and Forget”?

After suffering from two prolapses personally, please, please, please read this and take it very seriously. The Secret Is Out: You Can Hire a Rehab Pro to Help Rejuvenate Your Lady Parts, Sisters From AARP

Interesting. Powerful and Multifaceted: Maya Phillips on the Responsibility of Black Superheroes, LitHub

Good question for those who don’t. If you don’t care for apps use a journal or pencil and paper. Why Aren’t You Tracking Your Period?, Thinx

WATCHING

‘Sherman’s Showcase’ Is Back, Silly Smarts Intact, The Mew York Times

LISTEN

Because being a superwoman is unrealistic and unsustainable. Shedding Your Superwoman Status, Therapy For Black Girls

WRITE

I added this one because I like Mary Karr 😏. But also, all of what I write relies on my memory. Mary Karr on Navigating Memory While Writing Memoir, LitHub

 

What I Do: I don’t have access or a subscription to various newspapers or magazines i.e. the New York Times. So, I checked with my local library. I’ve learned I have access to the New York Times free with my library card. Always check with your local library to see what offerings are available to you.

 

Here’s what I’ve been reflecting on this week. As Haruki Murakam once said, “If you only read the books that everyone else is reading, you can only think what everyone else is thinking.” I believe this is applicable to everything we read.

 

 

READ

Yassssss! The Nap Bishop Is Spreading the Good Word: Rest, The New York Times

I’ve seen this several times. Thoughts? Hair-Straightening Chemicals Can Double the Risk of Cancer; Here’s What to Know, PopSugar

Yessssss, learn how to respond but also avoid giving one accidentally. When You’re Told, ‘You Look Good for Your Age,’ Here’s How to Reply, Sisters From AARP

I’m not a minimalist. Tried it and it just wasn’t for me. This article presents an interesting concept. Easier said than done but interesting nonetheless. Present Bias: How It Affects Us and How to Overcome It, Becoming Minimalist

To answer the question, atrociously bad. I’ve had one in the past. How Bad Can A Lawyer Be?, The Atlantic

Good read. Self-Care Is Only the First Step to Wellness, Says Author Fariha Róisín In ‘Who Is Wellness For?’, PopSugar

Did you know about this? I Survived Stage 0 Breast Cancer, Shondaland

I read this when it first posted but came across it again. How Would You Describe Yourself in Five Words?, Cup Of Jo

I’m always working to strengthen my relationship with myself. 9 Ways to Build a Stronger Relationship With Yourself, Wit & Delight

Since Shadow Work is number 3 of the previous article this is fitting. The Power of Shadow Work, Therapy For Black Girls

I’ve had to advocate for myself time after time when it comes to my health. Let me tell you, entering into perimenopause, a phase no one talks about, has been difficult. Educating myself, tracking my cycle, speaking up for myself and continuously openly communicating with my Primary Physician and Gynecologist has been a game changer. Doctor Not Hearing You? Try Menstrual Cycle Charting, Thinx

LISTEN

Therapy for Black Girls podcast. Here are a few episodes that might be helpful.

Session 115: What to Expect At Your First Session

Session 107: Am I Doing This Right? And 5 Other Questions About Therapy

Session 127: Your Questions About Therapy Answered

WRITE

Just a reminder. One is never too old to start a writing career. Five debut authors over 50 share their stories, Poets & Writers

 

What I Do: I don’t have access or a subscription to various newspapers or magazines i.e. the New York Times. So, I checked with my local library. I’ve learned I have access to the New York Times free with my library card. Always check with your local library to see what offerings are available to you.

 

Here’s what I’ve been reflecting on this week. As Haruki Murakam once said, “If you only read the books that everyone else is reading, you can only think what everyone else is thinking.” I believe this is applicable to everything we read.

 

 

READ

Interesting read. How The “NEW YORK TIMES” Covers Black Writers, Public Books

I have PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) so anxiety and depression are apart of my everyday life. Do You Have Adult ADHD, Anxiety, or Depression?, Therapy for Black Girls

I also experience monthly PMDD coupled with PMS symptoms. I know, I know, how do I do it? I educate myself and have learned to apply tons of self care. Is Your PMS Really PMDD?, Thinx

This is yet another good article on PMDD. I Thought I Had Depression. Turns Out It Was Undiagnosed PMDD., Thinx

I’m not a believer in the Superhero/heroine or Strong woman… What I am an avid believer in is having a toolkit/arsenal. Peloton’s Robin Arzón Shares Her “Superhero ToolKit” For Times of Stress, PopSugar

Thoughts? I Got Pregnant at 48, Shondaland

Yasssssss! The New Rule That Completely Changed My Friendships, The EveryGirl

Indeed it is. Normal marital hatred is real. Here’s what to do about it.

This is a must! Why Setting Healthy Boundaries Is Good for You (And How to Do It), Wit & Delight

Yes, please and thank you. 40 Foods Every Black Woman Over 40 Should Consider Eating, Sisters From AARP

LISTEN

Revealed: A new formula for lifelong happiness, Fast Company

WRITE

Interesting. On Seeing and Being Seen: Poet Ama Codjoe in Conversation with Maggie Millner, LitHub

 

What I Do: I don’t have access or a subscription to various newspapers or magazines i.e. the New York Times. So, I checked with my local library. I’ve learned I have access to the New York Times free with my library card. Always check with your local library to see what offerings are available to you.

 

Because of Paris Fashion Week and the change in season (Yay FALL!!!) this week my inbox was flooded with tons of fashion articles. I included a few. Admittedly, I don’t follow trends. I wear whatever I feel comfortable, confident and classy in. Sooooo, whatever makes me feel like myself. Here’s what I’ve been reflecting on this week. As Haruki Murakam once said, “If you only read the books that everyone else is reading, you can only think what everyone else is thinking.” I believe this is applicable to everything we read.

 

 

READ

I own several of the styles listed. 15 Stylish Coats I Love for Fall and Winter 2022, Wit & Delight

The classic staples on this list I agree with but the more trendy items, no. Thoughts? 14 Fall Trends We’re Ready to Wear… Like, Now, Byrdie

Want to make sure you have options. 23 Wardrobe Staples Our Editors Are Wearing This Fall, Camille Styles

Doable. But is it too basic? It’s Here: The Everygirl’s Fall 2022 Capsule Wardrobe, The Everygirl

Which made me go back to this. The 9 Fashion Trends That Are Dominating Fall 2022, The Everygirl

Oh, yes they are. 7 Sisters Who Are Shaping the Conversation About Black Women’s Bodies, Sisters From AARP

Absolutely! Always! Do You Tell Your Friends ‘I Love You’?, Cup of Jo

Vogue’s November cover star! Michaela Coel on the Persistent Problem of Subconscious Prejudice, Vogue

LISTEN

As per ush, catching up on Jill Scott Presents: J.ill the Podcast

Writing

This made me pause and think. 21. Brute Force, A Writer’s Notebook

 

What I Do: I don’t have access or a subscription to various newspapers or magazines i.e. the New York Times. So, I checked with my local library. I’ve learned I have access to the New York Times free with my library card. Always check with your local library to see what offerings are available to you.

 

Here’s what I’ve been reflecting on this week. As Haruki Murakam once said, “If you only read the books that everyone else is reading, you can only think what everyone else is thinking.” I believe this is applicable to everything we read.

 

 

READ

Please. Think Before You Comment on Someone’s Body, Thinx

While we’re on the subject. Why (And How) I Stopped Body-Shaming Myself, Thinx

You’re welcome. If you didn’t know. Yes, Lizzo is a classically trained flutist. Lizzo Plays New Notes on James Madison’s Crystal Flute from 1813, New York Times

Then there was this: Conservatives Very Offended by Lizzo Twerking With Slave Owner’s Crystal Flute, Jezebel

Loving this. Cropped and Lovely, Sisters From AARP

Because self care is more than going to a spa. Even though it can indeed include it. 12 Self-Care Practices You Haven’t Thought Of (That Are Completely Free), The Everygirl

Interesting. Why ‘Passive Income’ Is a Myth, lifehacker

YESSSS!!! From prison to the art gallery, New York Times

I want to know. Why Everyone’s So Afraid of the Clitoris, Dame

I’m here for it! Own Your Presence and Get Mad Respect, Sisters From AARP

LISTEN

As per ush, catching up on Jill Scott Presents: J.ill the Podcast

 

What I Do: I don’t have access or a subscription to various newspapers or magazines i.e. the New York Times. So, I checked with my local library. I’ve learned I have access to the New York Times free with my library card. Always check with your local library to see what offerings are available to you.

 

Here’s what I’ve been reflecting on this week. As Haruki Murakam once said, “If you only read the books that everyone else is reading, you can only think what everyone else is thinking.” I believe this is applicable to everything we read.

 

 

READ

Put this in your period arsenal. A Dermatologist Explains “Cycle Syncing”—and Why It Could Be the Cure for Your Hormonal Acne, Camille Styles

I may have posted this before but it’s worth thinking about. Are You Friends With a Trauma Dumper?, PopSugar

In case you needs it. After My Emotional Well Ran Dry, I Learned to Uplift Myself From A to Z, Sisters From AARP

I’m listening and taking notes. 9 Ways to Build a Stronger Relationship With Yourself, Wit & Delight

Eeeeeeeeppppp, YASSSSSS!!! This is EVERYTHING!!!!! Wash Day Diaries, Lithub

Alright. Head Turners: Photographer Flo Ngala on Finding the Light, Shondaland

Can we chat about Hip Hop for a sec? The Good Spirits of “Drinking Champs”, The New Yorker

Now well into my 40s, I learned this. Regardless of your age, if you’re unaware of this take note. This is applicable to all relationships. Many Women Over 40 Who Seem ‘Lucky’ in Love Actually Know This, Sisters From AARP

LISTEN

As per ush, catching up on Jill Scott Presents: J.ill the Podcast

I have also been listening to tons of rap. I know right! A majority of the rappers are women and I’m LOVING them!!! I listen as I walk and let me tell you, they keep my feet moving and my heart rate up. Yes, please and thank you!

WRITE

Telling the Story of Yourself: 6 Steps to Writing Personal Narratives

 

What I Do: I don’t have access or a subscription to various newspapers or magazines i.e. the New York Times. So, I checked with my local library. I’ve learned I have access to the New York Times free with my library card. Always check with your local library to see what offerings are available to you.

 

Here’s what I’ve been reflecting on this week. As Haruki Murakam once said, “If you only read the books that everyone else is reading, you can only think what everyone else is thinking.” I believe this is applicable to everything we read.

 

 

READ

Yes, please and thank you. Read & download the ‘Abbott Elementary’ pilot script, No Film School

I love natural hair stories. Nathalie Emmanuel on The Pivotal Moment That Helped Her Love Her Natural Hair, Byrdie

I’m a life long learner, I mean seriously, soooooo I’m just going to put this right here. These sites offer thousands of free online classes on just about everything, Fast Company

Thoughts? Black Women Are Embracing the Soft Life: “I Deserve Good Things All the Time”, PopSugar

I shared an article on this previously. Here’s an update. Slack publishes playbook for hiring formerly incarcerated workers, Fast Company

While we’re on the topic. I came across this a while ago and am still pondering ‘soft life’. I appreciate Precious Mayowa Agbabiaka perspective. Why you’re probably using ‘soft life’ wrong, INews

WATCHING

It’s interesting seeing how the world of natural haircare has evolved. Now there are a lot more products for naturals. Taraji P. Henson is building a haircare empire, Fast Company

LISTEN

Had to do it. You’re welcome. If you haven’t seen her at the Emmys PLEASE do. Actor Sheryl Lee Ralph, NPR

We shall see. Serena Williams’s Final Run, The Daily

WRITE

Pondering this. The Memoir Method: 7 Steps to a Powerful Personal Story, ProWritingAid

 

What I Do: I don’t have access or a subscription to various newspapers or magazines i.e. the New York Times. So, I checked with my local library. I’ve learned I have access to the New York Times free with my library card. Always check with your local library to see what offerings are available to you.

 

Here’s what I’ve been reflecting on this week. As Haruki Murakam once said, “If you only read the books that everyone else is reading, you can only think what everyone else is thinking.” I believe this is applicable to everything we read.

 

 

READ

There is so much talk about self care, wellness and well being but in order for any of that to happen we must first do the work of addressing the unseen. A Path to Well-Being: Understand and Face Trauma, Shondaland

Yes, please and thank you. Nonperformative Yoga Is the Breath of Fresh Air Your Practice Needs, PopSugar

Hmmmmm. Something to think about. How Can I Cure My White Guilt?, The New York Times

Numbers 8 and 9 are my go to. Having a Bad Day? Here Are 11 Simple Reminders to Help You Feel Better, Wit & Delight

A reminder to please don’t forget to: ‘Check on Your Strong Friends’, Sisters from AARP

LISTEN

As per ush, catching up on Jill Scott Presents: J.ill the Podcast

I love their playlists! Our Top 10 Playlists Now Feature Hot New Music. Listen for Free, Sisters From AARP

 

What I Do: I don’t have access or a subscription to various newspapers or magazines i.e. the New York Times. So, I checked with my local library. I’ve learned I have access to the New York Times free with my library card. Always check with your local library to see what offerings are available to you.

 

Here’s what I’ve been reflecting on this week. As Haruki Murakam once said, “If you only read the books that everyone else is reading, you can only think what everyone else is thinking.” I believe this is applicable to everything we read.

 

 

READ

It’s time for the U.S. Open. Billie Jean King: What Makes Serena Williams So Watchable, New York Times

While we’re on the subject, if you don’t know, now you know. Serena Williams’s Fashion Smash, New York Times

Good things to keep in my arsenal. 28 5-Minute Tasks That Help Me Make Better Use of My Time, Wit & Delight

Yes. Please. Thank you. My Wellness Manifesto? Learn How to Choose Yourself, PopSugar

Hmmmmmm. These haunting, moving monuments honor enslaved people in Charlotte, North Carolina, Fast Company

Saving this. The Art of Friendship: How to Flourish When Working With Friends, Shondaland

This has some really good points. I’m a Relationship Therapist, and This Is the Biggest Thing People Get Wrong About Compatibility, Well + Good

Yes, please and thank you. Looking for Your Travel Tribe? 4 Ways to See the World With Other Sisters

WRITE

Voice seems to always be a concern when it comes to writing. If You’re Struggling to Write, Lead with Voice, Lit Hub

 

 

What I Do: I don’t have access or a subscription to various newspapers or magazines i.e. the New York Times. So, I checked with my local library. I’ve learned I have access to the New York Times free with my library card. Always check with your local library to see what offerings are available to you.

 

Here’s what I’ve been reflecting on this week. As Haruki Murakam once said, “If you only read the books that everyone else is reading, you can only think what everyone else is thinking.” I believe this is applicable to everything we read.

 

 

READ

Nothing new and we should keep this discussion going. Home Appraised With a Black Owner: $472,000. With a White Owner: $750,000, The New York Times

Hubbs has a beard. Enough said. Beard care. Beard Oil vs. Beard Balm: Which Is Better for a Clean Look?, Byrdie

Interesting read. 6 of the Best Ways to Cultivate a Relationship That Lasts, Wit & Delight

Things to keep in mind when stepping back into working out. 7 Deadly Sins of Getting Back in Shape, Lifehacker

Oh, updated information. How Often Should You Work Out? Here’s What New Research Says, PopSugar

While we’re on the topic. Lift Weights, Eat More Protein, Especially if You’re Over 40, The New York Times

Did you hear about this? The USPS ‘Holiday Season’ Just Got Longer and More Expensive, lifehacker

LISTEN

As per ush, catching up on Jill Scott Presents: J.ill the Podcast

Came across this gem and had to share. My birthday is in September hence why this is my one of my favorites. The Song That Never Ends: Why Earth, Wind & Fire’s ‘September’ Sustains, NPR

I love their playlists! Our Top 10 Playlists Now Feature Hot New Music. Listen for Free, Sisters From AARP

WRITE

Food for thought. Lucy Sante on Writing with the Back Brain, LitHub

 

What I Do: I don’t have access or a subscription to various newspapers or magazines i.e. the New York Times. So, I checked with my local library. I’ve learned I have access to the New York Times free with my library card. Always check with your local library to see what offerings are available to you.