Happy My Ancestors Built This Country Month! 

For the two issues of February, I want to honor some historic Black women that I believe exalted wellness through their lives. Tina Turner has been someone that I admired for how she carried herself in public and cared for herself in private. The Tina documentary she produced before her passing is my favorite bio doc. I admire how she unapologetically spoke about overcoming so much pain and sadness through things that brought her joy and peace, like her Buddhist practices. I always thought she was brave for finding her spirituality outside of a religion she was raised in, and sharing her experiences. She mentioned how it gave her strength, motivation, and a taste of wellness. It's important to Black women to see imagery of ourselves in states of bliss, calm, joy, and happiness. I remember some years ago, seeing a rare photo of Rosa Parks doing yoga. I remember reading about her love for exercise, and how she enjoyed attending or teaching yoga classes. It made me curious, as I wondered if this was why she looked so good in her 80s and seemed so serene even when speaking about traumas of her past.

Now, growing up, nobody was doing any type of yoga or chanting in my immediate family. But, seeing Rosa Parks do it planted the seed in me to simply seek more. It made me believe there are many things out in the universe that could contribute to a better version of me. I just have to remain a student and tap in. I'm proud to witness and experience this shift of consciousness with women of color pouring into their care and wellness. I think today we are more equipped with resources and tools to advance our health than ever before. Community is what pushes us forward by sharing information and experiences. Imagine how many women and girls started practicing yoga after a class with Rosa Parks. Imagine the impact of Tina Turner chanting on the Larry King show had on many Black women that were seeking a different path. We need to see each other and ourselves in our light. I'm grateful for all of the positive images (new and vintage) I now have access to. I like to imagine someone reading through one of these newsletters and finding an article or book about something that could help save their life. Or help save their womb! In the U.S. January is recognized as cervical cancer awareness month. It's crazy how there's no campaigns around this disease that annually takes out about 4,000 women between the ages of 35-44. I've made my doctor's appointment for a screening. This edition includes some articles that hopefully will encourage you to schedule one for yourself, if you're over 35 years old.

Listen, we have to take care of ourselves and each other. It's real out here.