In 2017, after attending the first annual Black Therapist Rock (BTR) Conference I decided to be a part of a book collaboration project titled  ‘Black Therapist Rock- A glimpse through the eyes of experts. In my chapter, Don’t get it twisted! I share a joyous moment in a past love story that took place on 02.14.15 at 10:18pm. That resulted in hair loss and turned into a defining character building moment of my life!

Four (4) years later, I can appreciate that time for what it was back then. Today I have transcended to being intentionally mindful of my feelings, when I have them and processing what I need in the moment. Especially in relationships, we often default to romantic relationships however the same can be applied to friendships, interactions with relatives and peers. Life has its challenges, this part no one can escape however things do not need to be toxic. Let me repeat that again for the people in the back, Things DON’T NEED TO BE TOXIC.

According to WedMD.com stress is defined as:

“The body’s reaction to harmful situations — whether they’re real or perceived. When you feel threatened, a chemical reaction occurs in your body that allows you to act in a way to prevent injury. This reaction is known as “fight-or-flight,” or the stress response. During stress response, your heart rate increases, breathing quickens, muscles tighten, and blood pressure rises. You’ve gotten ready to act. It is how you protect yourself”

Makes sense right? It does to me, no wonder my hair was falling out! Other stress related symptoms include but are not limited to headaches, low energy, insomnia and upset stomach just to name a few.

I was so stressed with everything that was going on that my body had a build up of the stress response. I remember feeling sad and anxious on the regular basis, I was unable to sleep and could barely eat. Has stress ever hit you this hard before?

In my book chapter, I share the very moment when I realized that I was over it and made the decision that was healthy for me. I re-learned through actively implementing self care and journaling that there is not greater love than what you extended to yourself first.

What helped me get to a consistent space of healing and light was journaling.  I journaled about EVERYTHING, the weather (lol), my hair, my heart, my feelings, finances and health goals that I wanted to accomplish. Journaling kept me in a space of appreciativeness for the process.  I also learned to extended grace to myself because I was truly doing my best with what I knew at the time.

Click the image below to purchase your copy today!

-Nydia