What does Depression look like in Black Women?
What does Depression look like in Black Women?
I recently watched a TikTok that seems to be going viral and it’s all about Black Women having Depression. I’m back in school to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (currently in my second semester at Walden University) and I am enjoying it so far. Anytime, I hear a creator discuss Black Women’s mental health my ears perk up. Keep reading for my why behind going back to school. And shout out to this creator for linking the NYU article in her blog and writing her own blog post regarding the article. Thank you for the inspo.
The article will also be linked at the bottom of my blog post so you can read it yourself. The main point the article is making is that Black Women have Depression, however we show it differently than our counterparts. In this study they tested over 200 Black women who were actually doing a study about high blood pressure related to pregnancy and were doing a general Depression screening as a part of the protocol. Within that Depression screening is where the researchers found a whole new set of research regarding how Black women show Depression.
Side bar, my corporate job is in the NICU department and a lot of our patients have their babies prematurely due to preeclampsia, which is pregnancy high blood pressure. I find it interesting and exciting that the researchers were able to get so many Black women to participate even if it was originally for high blood pressure reasons. The reason I am excited is because I recently posted a TikTok video saying I was sad that there is limited research on Black women and someone commented “very common because we are not typically apart of control groups”. This made me sad, and fueled the fire under me as to one of the reasons I am back in school.
As I am back in school, I want to stay relevant to the trends in social media related to Black Women’s Health and hearing that we as Black Women are Depressed it just looks different has felt liberating for me. That might sound strange to some, but for the people that this article is meant for, I know you get me. Finally there is an answer for US.
I have had my own mental health scares postpartum. I was not diagnosed with Postpartum Depression, instead I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety. I remember being in a complete blur during that time of diagnosis (I just wanted to feel better and also wanted my insurance to cover my therapy visits) by my therapist and feeling very alone because I did not have anyone to confide in about what the diagnosis did or did not mean. I remember taking that diagnosis and running with it. I made sure to do everything my therapist recommended which did help. But could I have received even more help if I received a second opinion?
I recently connected with someone who mentioned, maybe my therapist misdiagnosed me? I was taken a back by this statement but then realized, maybe they are right. According to the NYU article, clinicians can miss the depression symptoms in Black women because we portray it as fatigue and low libido. This makes me think maybe that person I connected with a few months ago was right?…
I did get the help that I needed, but what about the other women after me or that I currently encounter in my yoga classes that I teach, in my everyday life, that may be depressed but think that they just are not keeping up….
This is why I am back in school.
My mental health postpartum coupled with transforming my own life with therapy and life coaching is what has led me to advance my degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner because there needs to be more Black Women in the mental health space to make other Black women feel safe enough to want to share their stories. To want to participate in research. Research changes lives. Research saves lives. Have you participated in a research study before? Lemme know.
Disclaimer: I am not a licensed mental health professional. Please speak with a licensed mental health professional if you need help.
References
https://www.nyu.edu/about/news-publications/news/2022/december/depression-Black-women.html
Happy Black Business Month
In honor of Black Business Month, we're excited to share three incredible ways
you can amplify your wellness journey and support a thriving Black-owned business:
Lesline's offerings are here to inspire, uplift, and transform your path to wellbeing.
Let's explore how you can embark on this journey together!
🧘🏾♀️ Lesline’s Virtual Yoga Studio – Your Personal Sanctuary
Imagine a world where your yoga practice seamlessly fits into your life, no matter
where you are or what time it is. With Lesline’s Virtual Yoga Studio, this dream
becomes a reality. Tailored sessions that resonate with your rhythm are at your
fingertips, from sunrise salutations that greet your day with positivity to serene
evening sessions that help you unwind. This virtual mat is your constant companion,
empowering you to unleash the transformative power of yoga on YOUR schedule.
Whether you're a seasoned yogi or just starting your journey, Lesline's Virtual Yoga
Studio provides a safe and welcoming space for you to nurture your mind, body, and
spirit. Embrace the beauty of practicing yoga wherever you are, and let its profound
impact ripple through every aspect of your life.
🎙️ Speaking Engagements & Mindfulness Workshops – Ignite Positivity in Your Workplace
Mindfulness is a superpower that can uplift not only individuals but entire
communities, including your workplace. Lesline offers Speaking Engagements and
Mindfulness Workshops that infuse your professional environment with positivity,
creativity, and tranquility. Imagine a workspace where employees are empowered
with mindfulness habits that nurture their overall wellbeing.
By integrating mindfulness into your workplace culture, you're not only elevating
moods and sparking creativity but also fostering an environment that thrives on
collective growth. Together, you and Lesline can inspire positive change and cultivate
a harmonious atmosphere that encourages both personal and professional
development. Let’s chat here about having me at your next women empowerment
conference.
🌌 Escape with Lesline Weighted Eye Pillows – Embrace Tranquility
In today's fast-paced world, finding moments of peace and relaxation is essential for
your overall wellness. Enter Escape with Lesline Weighted Eye Pillows – a portal to
pure relaxation. These custom-made pillows are designed to help you escape the
hustle and unwind, providing a soothing sensation that melts away stress and invites
tranquil sleep.
As the gentle weight of the eye pillow cradles you, a sense of calm washes over you,
allowing you to cherish quiet moments and fully embrace the present. These pillows
are more than just accessories; they are tools that enable you to prioritize self-care
and find solace in the midst of life's demands.
Ready to Make Waves of Well-being? Let's Connect and Create Magic!
Your wellness journey is a unique and beautiful path, and Lesline is here to walk
alongside you, offering guidance, inspiration, and transformation. As we celebrate
Black Business Month, joining forces with Lesline means not only supporting a Black-
owned business but also embarking on a voyage towards a more balanced, mindful,
and joyful life.
So, whether you're stepping onto the virtual yoga mat, exploring mindfulness in your
workplace, or embracing tranquility with weighted eye pillows, let's connect and
create magic together. Elevate your wellness journey and be a part of a movement
that celebrates holistic wellbeing, positivity, and the power of coming together.
Cheers to a month of growth, connection, and transformation. Here's to you and your
thriving wellness journey! 🌟🌿🌸
[Disclaimer: This blog post is not sponsored and is intended to highlight the offerings of Lesline Does Wellness, a Black-owned wellness business, during Black Business Month.]
Stop saying Representation Matters
Today I posted on Linkedin my thoughts on the upcoming Barbie Movie.
“I figured it out.
The reason I’m super pumped to take my kids to see The Barbie Movie this weekend is because of representation.
The phrase “Representation matters” kinda rubs me the wrong way when I hear some people say it because I don’t think you get it until you’re a Black Girl who becomes a Black Woman and finally starts to see people like Issa Rae as Barbie and you literally shed a tear.
Or when you go see Little Mermaid with Halle Bailey and cry at the end and during the entire movie because you see Black and Brown mermaids swimming with locs, with their natural hair.
You ask yourself wow, we really weren’t represented as kids and it kinda hurts 🥹
But now we’re healing.
And now I’m going to be just as excited as my kids if not more excited than my kids this weekend.
I also found a super cute bar in my city that has an ENTIRE BARBIE photo op so best believe I played Barbie and became my own Barbie.”
Let’s dive deeper into my Linkedin Post:
Representation Matters
The concept of representation can be a bit of a buzzword, but for many marginalized groups, it holds deep and personal meaning. As a Black girl who grew up not seeing herself or her culture represented in mainstream media, the lack of diversity in children's movies and toys was disheartening. But now, with the upcoming Barbie Movie featuring the talented Issa Rae as Barbie, and the memorable portrayal of Halle Bailey as the Little Mermaid, there's a profound shift happening.
Seeing Ourselves on the Big Screen
When I watched the trailer for The Barbie Movie and saw Issa Rae as the iconic doll, I couldn't contain my excitement. It was a moment of joy and validation. Finally, there was a Barbie who looked like me, who represented my experiences, and who shattered the traditional standards of beauty. Seeing Black and Brown mermaids with their natural hair in the Little Mermaid remake was equally moving, making me reflect on the lack of representation during my own childhood.
The Impact of Representation on Children
As a mother, it's essential for me to expose my children to diverse role models and characters. By doing so, I hope to instill in them a sense of inclusion, empathy, and respect for all individuals. When children see themselves represented positively in the media they consume, it boosts their self-esteem and allows them to dream bigger, knowing they can achieve anything regardless of their background.
Healing and Empowerment
Seeing characters who defy stereotypes and embrace their uniqueness brings about a sense of healing and empowerment. It helps us overcome the limiting beliefs we might have internalized due to the lack of representation during our own formative years. Embracing diversity in media can also help bridge gaps between different communities, fostering a more inclusive society for everyone.
Creating Our Own Narratives
Dressing up like Barbie allowed me to become my own version of the iconic doll, showing that we can create our narratives and redefine what it means to be represented.
So, this weekend, as I take my kids to see The Barbie Movie, it's not just about sharing a fun moment together. It's about celebrating the representation of diversity and breaking away from the limiting narratives that have prevailed for far too long. Let's embrace the power of representation, support diverse media, and create a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. Remember, we can all be our own Barbies and embrace our uniqueness with pride!
Is IV therapy worth it?
Is IV therapy worth it?
Your Favorite Nurse Yogi has added another self care tool to her tool belt; IV therapy. Special shout out to Hydrolux Wellness Lounge in Maitland. That’s where I go!
Have you tried it?
As a woman who wears multiple hats, and does a ton of physical labor teaching my yoga classes, it is important that I continually pour into myself. Hahah, see what I did there.
The benefits are freaking incredible 🔥 As a nurse I’m super hesitant about what I put in my body, so trust and believe this is good good. Also my husband who is sensitive to a bunch of stuff has started IV therapy for the past 6 months and his sleep 😴 has improved significantly.
Here’s a few benefits if you’re still on the fence ⬇️
1️⃣ Rapid Rehydration: IV hydration provides immediate replenishment by delivering fluids and electrolytes directly into your bloodstream. It's a faster and more effective method compared to oral hydration alone, especially when your body is unable to absorb fluids properly due to illness, dehydration, or other factors.
2️⃣ Enhanced Energy and Vitality: Feel like your energy levels are constantly running low? IV hydration can give you the boost you need to power through your day. By restoring proper hydration and delivering essential vitamins and minerals, IV therapy helps improve your energy levels, mental clarity, and overall vitality.
3️⃣ Faster Recovery: Whether you're recovering from an intense workout, a hangover, or an illness, IV hydration accelerates the recovery process. The infusion of fluids, electrolytes, and nutrients supports tissue repair, replenishes lost nutrients, and promotes faster healing, getting you back on your feet in no time.
4️⃣ Immune System Support: A well-hydrated body is better equipped to fight off infections and illness. IV hydration bolsters your immune system by providing vital nutrients such as vitamin C, B vitamins, and antioxidants. These immune-boosting elements can help strengthen your body's defenses and keep you healthier in the long run.
5️⃣ Beauty and Skin Radiance: Healthy, hydrated skin is the key to a youthful glow. IV hydration delivers essential vitamins and antioxidants that nourish your skin from within, promoting a radiant complexion and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Say hello to a vibrant and rejuvenated you!
Check out my YouTube channel 📺 for the in depth video where I share my IV therapy experience.
Trouble Sleeping? Listen to Brown Noise
Trouble sleeping? Can’t stop your racing thoughts? I have your answer right here.
Do you tend to have racing thoughts right before you go to bed? Listen to my brown noise to help you fall asleep with ease. Sleep is a vital pillar of your overall wellness, and incorporating brown noise into our nightly routine can work wonders in promoting a peaceful slumber. You can check out my brown noise for a peaceful sleep here.
What is Brown Noise?
Similar to white noise, brown noise is a type of sound masking that helps create a serene auditory environment. Unlike white noise, which contains a wide range of frequencies at equal intensity, brown noise emphasizes the lower frequencies. It has a deep, rumbling quality, often compared to the sound of a gentle waterfall or rustling leaves. Brown noise possesses a rich, calming quality that can effortlessly lull your mind and body into a state of tranquility.
Benefits of Brown Noise for Sleep:
Enhanced Relaxation- Brown noise creates a consistent ambient sound that helps mask disruptive noises from our surroundings, such as traffic, neighbors, or snoring partners. By masking these distractions, brown noise creates a relaxing atmosphere that can ease the mind and promote a sense of calm.
Improved Sleep Quality- Listening to brown noise while falling asleep has been found to improve sleep quality. The steady, monotonous sound can help slow down brain activity, allowing you to drift into a more profound and restful sleep. It can be particularly beneficial for individuals who struggle with racing thoughts or find it challenging to quiet their minds before bedtime.
Increased Focus- While brown noise is primarily associated with sleep, it can also have positive effects on focus and concentration during waking hours. Studies suggest that the ambient nature of brown noise can help improve cognitive performance and enhance productivity, making it a useful tool for those needing to concentrate on work, study, or creative endeavors.
Stress Reduction - The gentle, enveloping sound of brown noise has a soothing effect on the nervous system, aiding in stress reduction. By promoting a relaxed state, it can help lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone, and alleviate the physical and mental tension accumulated throughout the day. Incorporating brown noise into your bedtime routine can facilitate a smoother transition into a peaceful sleep.
How to Incorporate Brown Noise into Your Sleep Routine
White Noise Machines or Apps: Many white noise machines or apps offer a variety of sound options, including brown noise. These devices or apps can provide a consistent and customizable sound experience, allowing you to adjust the volume and tone to your liking.
Nature Sounds: If you prefer a more natural approach, recordings of nature sounds like rainfall, thunderstorms, or gentle waves can also provide a similar effect to brown noise. Experiment with different nature soundtracks to find the one that resonates with you the most.
Online Resources: Numerous online platforms provide free access to brown noise tracks that you can play directly from your computer or smartphone. Explore these resources to find the perfect brown noise ambience that aligns with your preferences.
Remember, each individual is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Take the time to explore different techniques and find the sleep routine that suits you best. Incorporating brown noise into your nightly ritual can become a peaceful and comforting habit that promotes restful sleep.
Wishing you nights filled with serenity and rejuvenating slumber!
Here’s 3 ways you can celebrate yourself after Mother’s Day
So I don’t know about you but something about us moms only getting 2 days out of the year to celebrate ourselves really irks my nerves.
Follow with me now. Those 2 days are typically Mother’s Day and your Birthday Day, but for some reason the other 363 days we don’t take care of ourselves. We “save” all the self-care for those 2 “big” days and wait in anticipation for our partners, friends, community to pour into us to then being incredibly disappointed because it didn’t meet our expectations.
Mind you our expectations are typically what we see on social media…
Cause have you really asked yourself what you would want if money was no option? Like what would your best day ever look? And I’ll let you have just those 2 days, your birthday and Mother’s Day to visualize what you would do if there was no budget.
Take a minute and visualize how you would spend the day right now. Close your eyes and paint the picture of your BEST DAY EVER.
For me. It would actually be very simple.
I would be in a cabin-heyyyy Getaway cabin and just allow my mind to wander and decompress.
But enough about me, back to you, that’s why you’re here. You’re trying to figure out how to really celebrate yourself every single day.
Before we get into the 3 tips I wanna give you the definition of celebrate. Well part of it-HA!
Celebrate: the first portion of the word “Celeber” in latin means to honor. To honor.
Wow, that is so powerful. It is important as moms, especially as new moms that you honor yourself daily. This in itself is a mindset shift because when you realize that honoring yourself can be whatever you want it to be the expectations and judgements tend to slip away.
So here are those tips….
The first way is to move your body.
Are you saying exercise, Lesline? Sure if you wanna call it that. But all I said was move your body AND do it outside. I know I am fortunate to live in Florida where it is ALWAYS sunny and majority of the world doesn’t have that blessing, so I encourage you to make sure you are getting your vitamin D in other ways if that be vitamins, purchasing a sun lamp, whatever it is you have to do to boost that mood so you can really celebrate the incredibleness that is YOU. Remember celebrating yourself means to honor yourself and one way you can honor yourself is by moving your body. Your body will thank you later.
2. The second way to celebrate you daily is to eat bright and colorful foods.
Foods that are bright and colorful tend to have antioxidants, vitamins and minerals which will help boost your mood and make you want to actually celebrate YOU.
3. The third way to celebrate you daily is to take a nap.
Taking a 10-15 minute nap daily will boost your mood, make you overall happier, and make you want to celebrate the incredible you that you really are. And if you find it challenging to fall asleep in the middle of the day, grab an Escape with Lesline weighted eye pillow to block out the sunlight so you can get those z’s and decompress.
By practicing these 3 tips daily you will find yourself wanting to show yourself love in other ways daily if that be taking a bath, FaceTiming your besties, or taking yourself out to eat at your favorite restaurant.
Don’t wait till Mother’s Day and your birthday to celebrate you. Do it nowwwwwwww.
What I’m doing for Stress Awareness Month?
Can I be real with you for a minute? I haven’t taken a vacation in over 5 years.
And I know I’m not the only one.
Yes, I’ve taking staycations here and there, but I haven’t taken that vacation vacation where I will leave the kids and the husband and just sit on a beach not doing anything.
During these 5 years being pregnant, birthing 2 children back to back, I have found myself jealous of everyone taking these luxury vacations.
Y’all seeing the same things I’m seeing in these internet streets?!
The girls are LIVING IT UP!!
Don’t get me wrong I’m so here for the luxury life, but right now I ain’t there. And that’s why I decided to create the first of its kind, Escape With Lesline Weighted Eye Pillows.
To make luxury living more accessible for the new mom who is waist dip in poop literally and figuratively.
So let’s go back to this jealous feeling I mentioned earlier…
After working through the jealously (heyyyy therapist) I realized that I was jealous because I was grieving my life before kids…
Am I allowed to say that?
Well, I did.
(Deep exhale)
My life before kids went by extremely fast and I never got a moment to really appreciate that life. I don’t say that for you to feel bad for me, but to just say it because I feel like a lot of us just hold our shit in and it’s important to let it out. This is a judgement free zone cause it’s my blog!
Now here I am, a mom, a small business owner, an employee, a wife, a friend, a sister and I used to find myself spiraling questioning everything about my existence.
One way I got out of that spiral was through therapy.
Therapy transformed my life. I started finding my purpose which is serving new moms and sharing my personal journey on social media. It has been both scary and exhilarating at the same time. By finding my purpose I have stopped having those existential moments and have now used that energy into uplifting new moms around me. Showing new moms that it’s ok to not always want to be around your children. That its ok to get frustrated.
This transformation led me to wanting more out of my life, so I decided to invest in a life coach in 2019 and then in 2020 I became a Certified Yoga Teacher.
You would think that my life would be perfect after all of this investment, but life still has its moments and I have become more mindful of the curveballs but one curveball in particular I did not see coming…
2020…
During 2020 I had a mental health scare and had thoughts of wanting to harm myself and my newborn daughter. (I did NOT harm anyone, but the thoughts alone scared the shit out of me)
It was in the moment after having the thought of wanting to harm my baby girl that I sought out a therapist and confided in her what I was thinking. I was too embarrassed to share any of this with my family, friends, not even my husband.
Fast forward to 2022 I became Certified as a Life Coach because I wanted to serve moms just like me, and show moms that you can find peace while raising your kids. It is possible! Specifically the new moms.
Who is a new mom you ask?
Anyone who has kiddos between the ages of newborn- 5 years old. As I mentioned, There have been challenging moments during my motherhood journey.
But out of these challenges I decided to create my first TANGIBLE product because I wanted to create a solution for those new moms like me who haven’t had a vacation in a long ass time or ever. And who also feel lonely and too afraid to share with anyone what they are thinking.
So can we give a round of applause, hell, a STANDING ovation for my FIRST TANGIBLE product?!
These weighted eye pillows provide the new mom the escape she needs without leaving her house.
Weighted Eye Pillows are very similar to weighted blankets. The major difference with Escape With Lesline Eye Pillows is that you can throw this in the diaper bag, in your glove compartment, or whatever bag you’re carrying around while juggling the kiddos. Plus, each purchase comes with an immersive meditation to take your relaxation to the next level.
In addition to that escape the new mom gains 3 key things:
✨A better night’s sleep
✨Lowers her chances of Postpartum Depression
✨Reduced Stress
How can a pillow do all of that Lesline? I know I know.
Lemme explain.
The weight of the eye pillow initiates gentle pressure stimulation which helps releasee serotonin and melatonin, hormones that promote relaxation and improved mood.
New moms experience more stress than their counterparts who are not parents due to the hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, and physical recovery they are going through.
Studies have shown that high levels of stress in new moms can lead to Postpartum Depression. By new moms using weighted eye pillows they will be able to take that time to disconnect and lower their cortisol levels which can improve their bonding time with baby and their breastfeeding experience.
Lastly, in honor of Stress Awareness Month I will be launching my pillows at my next yoga experience. You can join us here!
How are you going to stress less this month?
5 Wellness Tips for Moms This Holiday Season
5 Easy Wellness Tips for Moms This Holiday Season
12-21-2022
Being a mom is hard enough, but during the holidays it can feel downright impossible to keep up with everything. Between cooking, cleaning, shopping, and entertaining, it's easy to let your own health and wellbeing fall by the wayside. But if you want to be able to enjoy the holidays with your family, it's important to take care of yourself first. Here are 5 simple tips to help you stay well this holiday season:
1. Get enough sleep: When you're constantly on the go, it can be tempting to skimp on sleep. Trust me I get it, the night time for moms is our only ME time to watch Tik Tok videos or binge watch our favorite show. But running on empty will only make you more susceptible to illness. Make sure you're getting at least seven hours of sleep each night.
“7 hours, Lesline?! I’m lucky if I get 5. I have too much going on in my head.”
Ok here are a few tips to help you wind down for bed this holiday season:
-Put your phone on Do Not Disturb starting at 8pm. Eliminating notifications will help your brain relax.
-Buy Lavender essential oils and a diffuser. Once you put your phone on DND turn on your diffuser and close your bedroom door. By closing your bedroom door you’re allowing the lavender smell to fully permeate your room while you get the kids and yourself ready for bed.
-Place your phone in another room that is NOT your bedroom.
-Then when you come back to your room it will smell like pure relaxation.
2. Eat healthy: It's easy to indulge in all the holiday sweets and treats, but too much sugar can wreak havoc on your immune system. Balance out the holiday feast with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
I am all about enjoying your life and not depriving you. One way I incorporate fruits and vegetables in my life during the holiday season is doing it FIRST thing in the morning. I also live by the rule of getting at least one vegetable and one fruit in my belly every day.
3. Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated is essential for good health all year round, but it's especially important during the winter months when cold and flu viruses are circulating. Keep a water bottle with you at all times and drink throughout the day. And make sure you clean this bottle every night! Even though it's just water in your bottle, our mouths contain a lot of bacteria that can get us sick.
Rule of thumb for water intake: drink half your body weight in ounces of water. For example, if you weigh 150 lbs it is suggested to drink 75 ounces of water. If you are choosing to drink alcohol this holiday season make sure you are drinking more than half of your body weight for your water intake. Alcohol is dehydrating.
4. Take breaks: Once the holidays are over, you'll be glad you took some time for yourself. Whether it's getting a massage or taking a long bath, make sure you schedule some time into your busy holiday schedule just for YOU. By taking care of yourself this holiday season, you'll be able to enjoy all the festivities stress-free. One way to incorporate your breaks is by scheduling it in your calendar. Take 10 minutes every day and just be by yourself. Here is a quick meditation that I created that will help you start your day refreshed.
5. Exercise- I know, I know. “Really, Lesline? Where am I supposed to find time to exercise when I have to buy presents, food, etc.”
Moving your body for at least 15 minutes a day can alleviate holiday stress and help you be more responsive versus reactive to that family member that irks you. You know the family member that I’m talking about.
One way I like to incorporate my 15 minutes a day of movement is by dancing with my kids. I’m doing 2 things at once, and as moms we love to multiple task!
I am spending time with my kids AND 2) I'm getting those endorphins flowing. Currently Gracie’s Corner is what my kids love to dance to and boy do we get moving!
If you are still struggling with finding time to move your body, don’t worry. I have a virtual yoga studio that is perfect for you. As a busy mom I know how precious your time is so I have created a studio that fits your schedule. In my virtual yoga studio I have daily yoga videos, journal prompts, meditations, and more to help you feel less stressed this holiday season. You can check it out here.
The holiday season can be overwhelming but remember that YOU get to decide how you respond to every single situation that comes your way. My hopes is that you take at least 1 of these tips this holiday season so that you can truly enjoy your family.
I leave you with this.
Don't be afraid to ask for help from friends and family. Delegate tasks and accept offers of assistance graciously. You are NOT a super woman. That is NOT a badge of honor. So when your mother in law offers to wash the dishes graciously receive this act of service.
Lastly, make sure to schedule in some fun! Whether it's going out with friends or taking a class, make time for activities that bring you joy. Following these tips will help you feel your best during the hectic holiday season. Happy Holidays!
Yogi Holiday Gift Guide 2022
Are you a yogi? Or do you have a friend who recently got into yoga and wellness? Check out my 2022 Holiday Gift Guide so you can get them the perfect gift.
TOP 9 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE- YOGI STYLE
It’s your favorite nurse yogi, Lesline, and if you’re anything like me and you panic at buying your yogi friend a gift, I got you.
These are my top 9 favorite gifts that I’ve bought myself that have made my wellness journey so good. And will be perfect for your favorite yogi.
Also if you are new to yoga, or your friend is new to yoga or starting their wellness journey these are the perfect gifts to gift them this holiday season.
the modern fanny pack. I love using my Flex I Bag on my mid-day walks. As a yogi I like to live minimal in some aspects of my life, and purchasing this bag has helped me focus on what I actually need when I take those mid-day walks or when I’m running errands with my kids.
Also! The founder of Flex-N-Fly is a Black Woman named Youmie Jean Francois and she is a beautiful soul. Go check her out.
This is not false advertisement y’all. It really is unseen. When you squeeze it out of the bottle it is clear and as you rub it in you forget that you even put it on. I double up because it is so light! Every morning I put my sun screen on like clock work and this is my go to sunscreen. Especially living in Florida, the Sunshine State it is mandatory to wear sunscreen. But hey, don’t think just because you don’t live in Florida that you are excused from sunscreen. WRONG! EVERYONE I repeat everyone needs sunscreen, no matter where you live. Wearing sunscreen prevents skin cancer. And don’t think just because it is Winter that you are excused. Wrong again! Sunscreen needs to be applied all year ‘round. Even if you are sitting inside working from home. PUT YOUR SUNSCREEN ON.
These are my go to sandals for my mid day walks. They are super light and make walking an enjoyable experience. As a yogi I like to get my movement in a variety of ways, so not only do I stretch but I also walk art least 30 minutes Monday-Friday (during the week is the most convenient time for me to get my movement in because my kids are in school)
Yoga blocks help make your yoga practice more relaxing and enjoyable. One of my mentors, Angie, founder of Afro Yoga created these Cork Yoga Blocks and I had to buy 1 from her. These blocks are way sturdier than the foam blocks you may see in the gym or yoga studios. They have additional support which makes me feel more safe in my yoga practice.
If you are new to yoga I highly encourage you to buy at least 1 one yoga block. Here is a yoga class where I show you how to use that yoga block.
5. Yoga Mat
Every yogi needs a reliable yoga mat, Angie’s Ma’at yoga mat is reliable AND you can throw it in the washing machine. Like whatttt! It is a travel yoga mat meaning you can fold it up and put it in your carry on bag making is also very convenient.
Therapy transformed and saved my life. I’ve had a couple mental health scares and if it was not for my therapist I would not be here with you today. So when I say I’m an advocate I mean it. Which leads me to My Therapy Cards created by Dr. Ebony, a licensed psychologist who has Black Woman at the front of mind. She is a Black Woman herself and again, did I say she’s LICENSED so she knows what she is talking about when it comes to mental health for Black Women.
My Therapy Cards are cards that you can use to help you dive deep into your mental health journey in between your therapy sessions or can be used if you are not able to afford a therapist. Each card has a question that you can answer either by journaling or in your notes app on your phone. The choice is yours.
(If you are currently going through a mental health crisis please call 988 at this time.)
I like to buy a new water bottle every 3-6 months, but let’s be real, whenever I get bored! HAHA.
This water bottle is an Iron Flask and I absolutely love it because it fits in my cup holder in my truck. I had a previous galloon water bottle that did not fit, obviously in my cup holder and it needed its own seat. So annoying! I decided I needed something more sleek and opted in to purchasing the Iron Flask. I am so happy I purchased this water bottle. When you purchase you receive a couple of lips and straws so you can even change up how you drink your water.
I love options!
As a yogi I am all about setting the mood before I meditate or do my stretches. One way I do that is with essential oils. My favorite essential oil smell is Eucalyptus. I love using this oil to start my day. It wakes me up and allows me to tackle my day ahead.
9. Diffuser
And of course you need a diffuser to drop your oils in. This one that is linked is actually my husband’s! He bought it himself and I loved it so much that I stole it from him- HAHAH! I really like this diffuser because of the style and shape. It’s like modular but modern. Just go with it y'all. I’m not an interior decorator- LOL.
Which gift are you going to gift your favorite yogi or yourself? Lemme know in the comments box below.
Happy Holidays and Happy Shopping!
Some of these links are affiliated so if you chose to click and buy with THE affiliate link I will get a small kick back. TIA!
Where are you from, Lesline?
The question that makes me cringe
11-17-2022
Every time I hear this question I kinda cringe. And I think I cringe because I feel like I don’t have the “correct” answer.
So you may have come to my website to get yoga poses because you’re a busy mom like me. But before we dive into all things yoga I want to share who the heck I am and why I am so loud in these internet streets lately.
So who am I? Where am I from?
I am Lesline (Les-Leen) a first generation Jamerican. My dad was born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica and my mom was born in England. She moved to Jamaica as a child and met my dad.
My maternal and paternal grandparents were both born and raised in Jamaica. So that’s why I say I’m Jamerican. It wasn’t until recently that I was comfortable saying that I was Jamerican, because growing up my parents instilled in my sister and I, well drilled into our heads, YOU ARE AMERICAN.
That’s where the Jamerican comes into play because my heritage is Jamaican, and I recently found out, well a couple years ago, found out that my root roots are Nigerian. So what does that make me now? Nigerian-Jamaican-American (more specifically New York, and no I wasn’t born in a borough, I was born in Goshen, New York).
I feel like that’s a lot, right?
As a first generation, and the oldest sibling (I have a younger sister), my parents took great pride in having my sister and born in the USA. I saw first hand all of the struggles my parents went through growing up.
I remember seeing my dad study for his citizenship exam and all of us packing in the car to go to Epcot to see him officially become a citizen in America at Epcot. It was such a cool day. And just seeing the look on my dad’s face that he finally became a citizen after living in this country for over 12 years, priceless.
I think that’s part of the reason I care so deep about my people. And when I say my people I mean Black people. The amount of struggle we have gone through is well thats a whole ‘nother blog. But just knowing how hard my parents, my ancestors have worked so that I can be where I am at today.
That’s why I go so hard.
But not like I’m burning the midnight oil. Ya girl loves her sleep.
But I’m constantly thinking of how I can share my story, how can I better articulate my story because I know someone needs to hear it so they can move forward in their life.
My story is important because it is multifaceted. Just like the quesiton: “Where are you from” Its multificated because my story is layered with questioning my identity, marrying outside my race, and most recently the want of stepping away from my nursing career all together so I can pursue my passion of becoming a Wellness Enterpreneur.
So where am I from?
I am from many places and I feel like I have lived a couple lives already.
“I am Lesline”
I am me.
Is that the answer you’re wanting?
The next time you ask someone where they are from, specify.
Cause for me its like, what do you really want to know?
Where my parents are from? Where are my ancestors are from? Or where was I born?
You see how this one question can literally go 3 different ways. Face palm.
Or maybe I’m too in my feelings about this question.
Anyways reader, welcome.
Welcome to my world where you will see my unique perspective on what its like to be a mom to toddlers, married, working a full time job while chasing my dream of being a Wellness Entrepreneur.
Sit back, grab a snack, and enjoy this ride.
It’s going to be a good one.
Let me know reader, when have you questioned your identity? I’d love to hear below.
