Being

It goes without saying: 2020 has been an unforgettable year. For me personally it's been one of many ups and downs but it's also been a time to go within.

In uncertain times I painted this piece to remind me that dark days don't last always. It probably goes without saying- this pandemic can take a toll on the mental. The course of life, where to go, what is safe, who to listen to, and what to do has left a deep feeling of uncertainty. It can be challenging to surrender and unfold to the unknown. I realized-Nature is always surrendering to the unknown.

With fall quickly plunging into winter, I realized there's no way to escape darkness, but prepare and embrace it. Upon returning from my visit with family, I took notes on how important self care will be during these seasonal changes. As a melanated human, it's not always easy to remain in a state of just being. Self care is not something necessary taught nor passed down in my family ancestry. I decided to cultivate some personal practices that make me feel like light. I also remind myself that I too am like a plant that needs light, and proper care. Here are some things that have assisted me along this change:

-I like any plant it is necessary to ensure proper water, vitamins, and mineral intake. One thing this experience has taught all of us is that-health is key. I personally take Nutrilite™ vitamins and supplements for focus and immunity. As always please consult a physician if you intend to take any supplements or make any dietary changes.

-Like a plant: Embrace sunshine. I personally like to go for long walks on sunny days to soak in some rays. It's no secret that the sun is important for Vitamin D synthesis in the body. Vitamin D is known to boost immunity within the body and is a great way to boost mood.

-Meditate. Meditation has been a great way for me to find answers needed within. Since I've gotten back to this practice, I have noticed an overall feeling of peace and wellbeing. I particularly love the Liberate app as it addresses my personal cultural needs. I also cut out unnecessary distractions such as the news. I realized most news reports create a an energy of anger, fear, and agitation adding fuel to anxiety.

-Be grateful. Something that has helped is a gratitude mindset. I've taken to writing or reciting 3 things I'm grateful for each day. Even if it's for the same thing 3 days in a row. This year has been a loss of so much for so many, myself included. I've learned to cherish some of the smallest things in life. For me gratitude breeds hope.

- Create. The most fascinating thing about "being" is the ability to create. From art to science, it's no secret that we are innovative, and limitless of what we can birth to the world. I created this piece to remind me that light resides within and around. That I too am like a plant that needs to be nurtured. Even when days feel more hopeless than others, light will always find its way in the dark. The yellow symbolized the brighter days ahead, the green represents the abundance we are already blossoming with. the white are the specks of hope and the red is the passion for possibilities.

This is not a "once size fits all" list, however these are some things that have helped along my personal journey. As someone who suffers from bouts of depression and anxiety these are some things that have allowed me to cultivate better methods of self care.

As we approach the darkest days of the season, I want to encourage everyone to stay well, be safe and know that we're in this together-it's ok to be human.

Disclosure: I am not a doctor or a dietician. The information I provide is based on my personal experience, spiritual practitioner. Any recommendations I may make about nutrition, supplements or lifestyle, or information provided on this website should be discussed between you and your doctor if any of these recommendations involves risks to you.The information you receive do not take the place of professional medical advice.