Hi there!
It’s been awhile. With so much going on in the world, I haven’t had the words or desire to write. Between COVID-19 and the injustice in our country towards Black people, it’s been a heavy few months. The stories of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, Elijiah McCain and so many other Black individuals breaks my heart.
I love the outpouring of support for Black people that I have seen, but unfortunately I’ve also seen comment sections on social media that are full of hate and show how much work really needs to be done. It’s disappointing to say the least. It makes me angry and upset but I will not let the ignorance of others get in the way of my support for Black people. I am listening, learning, reading, signing petitions and will be using my vote in the upcoming election. This is not a political statement – it’s a human rights movement. We need to show up and support black people. There is no excuse not to.
Here are some resources I’ve been learning from:
- 13th – A must-watch document on Netflix about the racial injustice in America’s prison system
- I’m Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness (I’ve mentioned this book by Austin Channing Brown before, and highly recommend it)
- How to Be an Anti-Racist by Ibram X. Kendi (great book to listen to on audio if you like audio books)
- Yoga Girl Podcast: Black Lives Matter (great episode on inclusivity in the yoga community)
- The Anti-Racism Daily is a daily newsletter by Nicole Cardoza that has been very educational for me
- Diversify your social media feed. Some of my favorite follows: Austin Channing Brown, Sincerely, Lettie and Rachel Cargle
The posts above are really resonating with me. I am grateful that social media has brought much needed attention to the racial inequality in America, but the constant news and social media can be very draining. Don’t forget to take breaks from the 24/7 news cycle. We can’t get burnout – there’s a lot of change to be made.
Life Lately
Summer is in full-swing here in Memphis. It is hot — high 80s to 90s every day. We have been spending a lot of time by the pool at our apartment complex, which I’m so grateful for. I haven’t been back to any yoga studios even though they are open with social distancing guidelines. I haven’t felt comfortable enough to go back yet so I’ve been practicing on my own or on YouTube.
I’ve been walking a lot and doing pilates as well. I’ve found that low intensity workouts feel best in my body. Since I have anxiety, my cortisol is already elevated, so high intensity workouts can leave me feeling depleted rather than rejuvenated. I love yoga, walking and pilates because of the mind/body connection. It lowers my stress and I feel more at ease in my own body. When I crave something sweatier, I get outside and go for a jog. A run in nature always helps to clear my mind.
It’s hard to believe we have been in Memphis for more than eight months! We are really enjoying it here. There’s fun things to do, the people are kind and the BBQ is great 🙂 Due to COVID-19, we haven’t seen our families since Christmas time and are really looking forward to seeing them this summer.
I hope you are doing well and taking care of yourself!
-Morgan