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We’re well into the summer, and the dry air, heat, etc can be brutal on those locks sis! Since I’m always on the hunt for natural alternatives, I’ve found 5 natural ingredients for healthy hair, that seem to always score at the top of my list. Climate, stress, diet, etc can really impact the health of your hair. So for me, natural and minimal ingredients are my choice to work to heal and protect my hair and scalp. Natural ingredients will almost always out do those store bought versions that are loaded with chemicals. Have you heard about the latest scandals around some of the brands marketing to black women? Yeah, you know the ones that are accused of containing harmful chemicals that are possibly cancer causing? Well, today I’m highlighting 5 natural ingredients for healthy hair, in a simple DIY recipe. My list/ recipe came about from my own journey and simply what has worked best for me.

The big deal about emergency selfcare for women 

Things are rapidly changing across the globe and many of the issues and challenges that are unique to women, continue to grow. From socio-political unrest to domestic violence, women, children and the elderly are at the forefront.  This makes it critically important that emergency selfcare for black women, include plans and strategies. They also need to be put in place regardless of where you are in the world. Racism and anti-blackness is global and we as Black women need to have or create contingency plans. It also  means having a plan, A, B, and C, if it comes to that.

A sign of the times

Not to sound alarmist, but we all remember how January 6th went down, after the last presidential election and things are far more toxic. Given the state of the economy in the discontent in the U.S., rolling back of women’s and Black voting rights, it’s clear communities of color need to have their own contengencies in place. This is especially true for the Black community, given the violent and oppressive history of this country.

More on the realities of 2024 politics in the U.S.A

Given the political climate, it’s no surprise that Black women need to have additional safety and security plans as well. Patriarchy is still a major player globally, and exacerbates the institutionalized racism and discrimination that is foundational to this nation. So what can the average Black woman do to ensure she has relative safety, security, etc, if she’s not one of the privileged few, who’ve either left, leaving or have a geographic exit plan? Check out an earlier related article here. Like it or not, emergency selfcare for black women is critical to thriving beyond 2024.

Keeping it real about selfcare and personal safety as a Black woman

While America has a lot of problems, it’s also true that the us does not have a monopoly on racism and anti-blackness. That being said, the average BIPOC person, is living their lives and navigating as best as possible. Many of us are doing well, but far too many in the Black community are struggling, especially Black women. The dark spectre of patriarchy and misogyny means that Black women have even more barriers to navigate and fight against. This is true in all dimensions of society and culture. When you add in the current racial tensions, socio-economic discontent as well as the escalated violence against women in general, the long term effects can be very harmful and damaging.

The continued need for selfcare

This is why selfcare must be centered in the life of every woman and girl. Yes, selfcare is important for everyone, but the reality is that women have been conditioned and arguably, brainwashed. Many have been conditioned into believing that their exhaustion and marginalization is normal and a reasonable price to pay for a “acceptance and protection” within society.  As patriarchy continues to violently oppress women in response to women demanding autonomy and equal rights, safety and security needs to be amplified in any selfcare toolkit.

Our experinece

This is where emergency selfcare for Black women becomes a “thing”! Having a plan that includes self defense, personal safety hacks, etc become even more important at a time when socio-political unrest is a possibility. History continues to remind us, that as a collective, contingencies are necessary in order to not just survive, but to thrive. For more on this, you can watch my YouTube video here

Some things to have as part of your selfcare emergency toolkit/plan 

1. Create an emergency carry all (aka go bag)
2. Important documents (for yourself and your dependents)
3. valid passport (and passport card)
4. List of important medications
5. Emergency evacuation plan
6. List of important phone numbers
7. List of safe locations in the event that geolocation needs to be executed
8. Important community members and contacts
9. Important electronics (including accessories, chargers, batteries, etc)
10. Adaptive Mindfulness practices, wellness routines, etc
11. Community resources

Additional resources (U.S.A):

1. https://www.ready.gov/publications

One more thing

For more strategies and tips, be sure to subscribe and follow me on social right here!

Black women are realizing they have options

It’s been a long time coming but for a variety of reasons more black women are traveling the world and even choosing to become permanent expats. Statistically, black women are some of the highest educated and accomplished folks in the United States. Arguably, social media and other platforms have also played a role in this trend. By connecting more women to communities across the globe, they are being shown that they too, have options. Navigating the realities of anti-blackness and institutionalized racism, black women are beginning to reevaluate the whole notion of the American dream. Additionally, the covid pandemic drove home some hard truths about healthcare disparities, inequity, work-life balance, etc .

What black women found out during the pandemic

Black women working in the service industry and frontline jobs faced unique challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many worked in sectors with higher exposure to the virus, such as healthcare, retail, and hospitality. They often experienced higher rates of job insecurity, reduced hours, and increased health risks.

Moreover, the closure of schools and increased caregiving responsibilities disproportionately affected black women, as they were more likely to be single parents or primary caregivers. The digital divide also posed challenges for remote work and education, further exacerbating disparities.

Who was the most impacted by the pandemic

Generally, women were disproportionately affected in terms of job losses, increased caregiving responsibilities, and challenges accessing healthcare. These impacts were often more pronounced in lower-income communities and sectors with a high representation of women.

What the pandemic has revealed to black women

However, black women  were the hardest hit in service and many frontline roles. They often faced a combination of economic, health, and caregiving challenges, highlighting the intersectionality of gender and race and the impact of the pandemic. Remember, most service based, healthcare, and education, etc professions are largely women, particularly black and other women of color. Given the socio-cultural, history and politics of the U.S., it’s no great surprise that these groups were the most negatively impacted by the pandemic.

What this meant for black women (both in and outside the workplace)

As the politics and seedy underbelly of America’s past raises its head, black women are realizing that, the very progress that has been made in terms of social justice, equality and gender equity, are being rolled back. With that knowledge comes the need to create community and resources for addressing this reality. One of the consequences of this is the trending exodus of black women from the U.S. and, an exploration of the world in search of better options. Traveling the world is a movement and a response to the realities of a nation that refuses to address its own issues.

Black women traveling as a form of selfcare

Black women traveling the world is a powerful manifestation of recognizing that you have options and resourcefulness, is your middle name. For black women, travel as well as even becoming permanent expats, is also a form of selfcare and selflove. For most black Americans, the U.S. is the toxic and traumatic ex you want to ditch. Well, for black women tired of laboring on behalf of everyone else, they are choosing to go with another option. That option is travel and, in some cases, expatriation to places across the globe that will allow us to thrive in relative safety and security. Read my latest post on my Merida selfcare vacation right here!

More on selfcare for Black women

As a collective, Black people have always been explorers and travelers, for centuries. That remains true, even today. Some is due to political and economic distress, and some is by choice. More recently, Black women are adding travel and exploration to their selfcare toolkit. For many, travel is a release and escape from unchecked capitalism, institutional racism, workplace toxicity, and marginalization. Selfcare has become a revolutionary act for a lot of Black women. Particularly, those who are awakening to the fact that they don’t have to stay in spaces where they are unsafe and marginalized. Yes, it’s a “privilege” for many of us in the West, but that too is changing for women globally as more women expand their selfcare toolkits. Make no mistake; not every “selfcare” toolkit requires travel. A simple change of physical location, a safe space, etc, will also suffice.

Final thoughts

Yes, racism and anti-blackness are global. However, when it comes to “degrees” of this ish, the USA , has a monopoly. The fact that this poison is so foundational and intertwined with the history of this country, is daunting. The work, blood, and  sacrifices that Black people have put into this country is something this nation is yet to reconcile. Against that context, Black women have toiled and sacrificed enough, and many have decided that it’s time to lay down the super woman cape and focus on healing and thriving. This journey of selfcare and selflove, is one that many women across the globe are beginning to embrace. Needless to say, those who have exploited female labor, reproduction, etc are not pleased. The rollback of women’s rights globally, rape culture, attacks on women’s reproductive rights, etc, are all in response to women coming together to reclaim their place in humanity.

Reflections on my Selfcare vacation

I’m closing out my selfcare Merida vacation by making sure I hit some of the local sights. Manifesto coffee does not disappoint here in centro historical de Merida. It’s got cute and cozy vibes coupled with a sense of safety that I typically don’t feel in the United States. The vibes, service and menu are just what I was craving. Selfcare is also about curating both your space and your vibe. For me, hanging out here to people watch, blog and just exist in a chill space, was part of that experience. While there are spaces that are similarly quaint in the U.S. and anti-blackness is global, my experience here as a Black woman, was unmatched!

My perspectives as a Black woman

For instance, while I consider myself to be a mindful and vigilant  female traveler, the sense of safety and ease as a black woman, is unmatched here. There’s no veiled hostility, micro aggression vibes, or wondering if I’ll need to break out the pepper spray for some guy who can’t handle a simple “no” or “not interested”.  Also, I don’t have to worry about the next random mass shooting here either! Needless to say, this selfcare Merida vacation was definitely needed.

The Merida vibes

While Merida may have lost it’s spot at the top as the second safest city in North America, the fact remains that it is an awesome place to just rest, replenish and exist without the collective trauma one experiences living life on the daily in the US. It’s only when one has the opportunity to travel beyond our immediate bubble, that we realize the crazy toxic rat race we live in is not normal (You can get some great ideas from one of my previous post here)!  On a side note,  Yes, there is racism in Mexico.  But, the American version is so poisonous and foundational to its structures.

Adding to your selfcare toolkit

A lot of times, it’s not enough to just take a few days off from the rat race. Sometimes the best thing you can do for your mental and emotional health is to, leave! Changing your physical environment can be extremely therapeutic and healing. For instance, taking something similar to my Selfcare Merida vacation, can be just what the doctor ordered. Not only does a change of location remove you from stresses in your environment, it gives you the space to focus on yourself. Society and culture have conditioned women to put the needs and desires of others, ahead of their own. It also reinforces this lack of care through guilt, religion, etc. All of this, is unhealthy and unstainable.

A few studies and thoughts

There are several recent studies to address the impact of racism, gender inequality, etc on women, particularly Black women. For all the skeptics out there, you can read about it in this article by Allana T. Forde PhD, MPH et.al. Another article by Stephanie Brooks, et.al studies this from the lens of gender. Since institutional racism, discrimination, etc is not going away anytime soon, the key is to have strategies in place. Having a selfcare toolkit is a life-saving solution to not just survive, but to thrive.  Unfortunately, now more than ever, women are facing rollbacks of human rights, bodily autonomy, gender-based violence, etc. While this was also true in the past, technology and women pushing back against patriarchy, misogyny, racism, etc has escalated the dangers faced by women.

More thoughts on this

The reality is, freedom, self-determination and equality, will always face pushback from those who benefit from both oppression and inequality. When it comes to female labor, reproduction, resources, etc, exploiters/oppressive institutions, will always resort to violence in some form, in order to maintain dominance. With this in mind, women, globally, must utilize all aspects of selfcare and expand what it means, in order to address our current state. Sounds radical; I know, you weren’t expecting “this” version of selfcare. The version of selfcare that’s pedaled on mainstream social media, does not live here! My selfcare Merida vacation, was designed to heal, decompress and shore up my protections against all of what we face as women, especially as a Black woman.

Final thoughts

While my selfcare Merida vacation might be seen as a privilege (I recognize that my privilege in being to be able to expand my selfcare in this manner), we all must plan and define what goes into our own life-saving, selfcare toolkits. It is individual and tailored to meet the unique needs of each woman across the globe. Is it environmental safety? Is it physical protection/safety? Yes, all of these things should be considered when building your toolkit. As a selfcare and health coach for Black women over 40, this is something I do for myself as well as my clients. We live in an era of both tremendous change as well as real danger for women everywhere. Move strategically ladies!

Selfcare and the realities of setting boundaries for black women

It’s hard enough learning and setting boundaries, as a woman. As usual, when it comes to black women living and existing in America, that becomes even more of a challenge. Black women are exhausted but still expected to show up 100% at home and in the workplace. For the average black woman, there is no room for selfcare or taking a mental health day. Often times, they are expected by society and culture to exist and toil for the benefit of others and that, in itself should be reward enough!

Some observations about selfcare as a black woman

 The struggle is real and can often seem daunting especially when you consider all of the intersections that we as black women have to navigate daily. Also, historically and culturally, women have been conditioned to allow others to access our labour and resources to the point of exhaustion, if not death. As a matter of fact, it has been so normalized that when we start reclaiming our power and setting boundaries, they are often met with resistance and hostility from unexpected places. It does not matter that Black women are exhausted, stressed and many in poor health due to a lack of selfcare and setting boundaries.

It starts in the mind

I hate to sound cliche but selfcare, selflove, etc regardless of where you are in the world, begins in the mind! It’s also why so many “forces” (i.e. patriarchy, misogyny, etc) don’t want women to access selfcare and are so violently opposed to these concepts. While patriarchy and misogny(noir) are not new-they’ve been in operation for millennia, what is new is the global awakening of women. In order to access selfcare and selflove, you have to first become self aware.

What does that mean?

What this means is that, Black women are coming to the realization that we are human before our we are women, and we don’t need to prove our worth to anyone. It also means freeing our minds from the societal and cultural indoctrination (domestication) that has gaslit women into thinking they don’t deserve to live autonomously or have the right to pursue their dreams, grow, etc.

Black women are exhausted and have been so, for a long time

For much of our time here in North America, particularly here in the U.S., black women have been the proverbial “canaries in the coal mines” of society and culture. Our labour, resources and energy have been siphoned from us, without our consent. The few occasions when consent has been granted it was often under duress or outright deception. Now, the tide is changing as black women and women globally awaken to reclaim their autonomy, resources and power. Needless to say, those who have long benefited from the subjugation of women, are in violent opposition and unhappy to say the least.

Black women at the intersection of patriarchy and white supremacy

Because of patriarchy and white supremacy, Black women have historically borne the brunt of inequity and discrimination. As a result, we’ve been disproportionately affected by the impacts of these poisonous systems and their institutions. Whether it is maternal health outcomes, treatment in the justice system, etc, Black women are the most harmed. In short, Black women are exhausted from the seemingly never ending task of navigating these systems and conditions. Awakening to these realities, rather than remaining on the hamster wheel going no where, is the beginning of the selfcare journey!

A brief reminder of her-story

Arguably, women globally have been the observers and harbingers of what’s coming as we have watched patriarchy destroy both humanity and the planet. Women are relearning “her-story” and coming to realize that we have been lied to and outright bamboozled!  Yes, before all of “this” we had power, were builders, and protectors of both humanity and the planet. In short, equality and equity have always translated into alignment and universal balance as it is the universal order of things.

Selfcare strategies to save your mind and body

Being a woman is unlike anything in the universe and we need to start walking in our power and truth. To begin to do that, we need each need selfcare strategies and tools that we help us thrive and not just survive on this blue globe! Our default does not have be exhaustion,stress and dis-ease. Consistent selfcare means a reduction in stress, fatigue and illness. It also means a far better quality of life and the ability to focus on those interests that elevate our lives. Research has shown that repeated stress, trauma, etc age and cause disease in all areas of the body. This also impacts our mental health status. You can read more on selfcare right here!

So why the shift?

The shift is taking place as more and more black women connect globally. Through social media and other platforms, black women are not just sharing stories and experiences, we are sharing knowledge. As more of awaken to the damages and lies of patriarchy, misogyny and anti-blackness, we are moving strategically. With knowledge and healing comes the ability to get off the altar of other people’s expectations. In this way, we reclaim our health, dreams and passions. Global politics, especially as it pertains to North America, has been a huge eye opener for black women. As we watch women’s rights be dismantled, the stripping away of reproductive rights, etc, it’s clear to see the writing on the wall. Be sure to tune into my YouTube channel as I really go “in” on this!

Final Thoughts

As more and more black women realize the options available to them globally, the more the fire and fight for true liberation burns. The myth of black excellence, proving yourself to justify your worth, begging for a seat at the table of institutional racism, etc is crumbling. Now, black women are finally beginning to make choices that are in their best interest and most of that is founded on selfcare and healing. Additionally, as more black women to begin to seek therapy, do the internal work, etc,  we can expect the societal impact to hit even harder. Arguably, that’s why those who have benefited from unchecked access to black women’s labor are getting more upset and loud about it. News flash: stay mad!

As someone who has sensitive skin and scalp, I’m always on the lookout for natural remedies. I’m not a fan of chemicals so I usually look for natural or herbal remedies to address most issues. This exfoliating itchy scalp treatment mask (and scrub), is my latest win. Now as always, make sure you’re not sensitive or allergic to any of the ingredients and check with your dermatologist, etc.

Something to consider

Are you struggling with an itchy and flaky scalp? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. There are several natural remedies you can use to soothe your scalp and promote healthy hair growth, including an exfoliating scalp treatment mask. This powerful treatment mask is made with several key ingredients, including olive oil, apple cider vinegar, coconut oil, sea salt, coconut sugar, tea tree oil, peppermint oil, and Jamaican black castor oil.

My why for using an exfoliating itchy scalp treatment scrub

Exfoliating your scalp can be beneficial as it helps unclog hair follicles, promote healthy circulation, and reduce itchiness and flakiness. This treatment mask can help soothe your scalp and nourish your hair from the roots to the tips. Let’s explore the benefits of each ingredient used in this exfoliating scalp treatment mask:

1. Olive oil: Rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, olive oil can help nourish and moisturize the scalp, while also reducing inflammation and promoting healthy hair growth.
2. Apple cider vinegar: Contains acetic acid, which can help balance the pH of the scalp and reduce dandruff and itchiness. It also has antimicrobial properties that can help prevent bacterial and fungal infections.
3. Coconut oil: One of the most popular natural haircare ingredients, coconut oil can help moisturize and nourish the scalp and hair, while also reducing inflammation and preventing breakage.
4. Sea salt: A natural exfoliant, sea salt can help remove dead skin cells and other impurities from the scalp, while also stimulating blood flow and promoting healthy hair growth.
5. Coconut sugar: Like sea salt, coconut sugar can also act as an exfoliant, helping to remove dead skin cells and promote healthy circulation in the scalp.
6. Tea tree oil: Known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, tea tree oil can help reduce inflammation and prevent scalp infections, while also promoting healthy hair growth.
7. Peppermint oil: Has a cooling and soothing effect on the scalp, making it a great ingredient for reducing itchiness and irritation. It also has antimicrobial properties that can help prevent scalp infections.
8. Jamaican black castor oil: Rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, Jamaican black castor oil can help nourish and moisturize the scalp, while also promoting healthy hair growth and reducing breakage.

Here’s what I use in my recipe

To make this exfoliating scalp treatment mask, simply mix these ingredients together, apply it to your scalp, leave it on for 10-15 minutes, and then rinse it off. Repeat this treatment once a week for best results. By using natural ingredients, you can create a powerful scalp treatment mask that nourishes and rejuvenates your skin and hair.

Here are a few benefits for 4C hair  (I hate using this term by the way)

1. Moisturizing: 4C hair is known for being extremely dry and brittle, and this scalp treatment mask can help provide deep hydration and moisture to the scalp and hair, reducing the risk of breakage and promoting healthy hair growth.
2. Soothing: 4C hair can also be prone to itchiness and irritation, and the peppermint oil and tea tree oil in this treatment mask can help soothe the scalp and reduce inflammation, providing relief from discomfort.
3. Detangling: The nourishing ingredients in this treatment mask can help detangle and soften 4C hair, making it easier to manage and reducing the risk of breakage during styling.
4. Promotes Hair Growth: By unclogging hair follicles and promoting healthy circulation, this scalp treatment mask can also help stimulate hair growth in 4C hair. The Jamaican black castor oil, in particular, is known for its hair growth-promoting properties and can help thicken and strengthen 4C hair.

Overall, using an exfoliating scalp treatment mask on a regular basis can help 4C hair become healthier, stronger, and more manageable. It gives a range of benefits, from deep hydration and moisture to soothing irritation and promoting healthy hair growth, making it a great addition to any 4C haircare routine.

Bottom line?  Exfoliating your scalp is a simple yet effective way to promote healthy hair growth and reduce itchiness and flakiness. By using this exfoliating itchy scalp treatment mask, you can nourish and rejuvenate your scalp and hair, promoting healthy circulation and reducing the risk of scalp infections. Also, check another awesome recipe for 4C hair right here.

Safety and security first

I’m always surprised at how many women don’t know safety and security go hand in hand with selfcare. Selfcare is an essential tool for Black women to navigate the unique challenges they face in the world. However, selfcare is often thought of as being limited to physical and mental wellness, without considering the importance of personal safety in our selfcare. Safety and self care go together sis! In this context, security includes feeling safe in one’s environment, having access to resources, and feeling financially stable. These elements are essential for Black women to truly take care of themselves and improve their overall well-being. On one small note, this post may contain Amazon affiliate links from which I will receive a small percentage!

One of the key ways in which security can be a pillar of selfcare for black women is by ensuring that they feel safe in their environment. This means feeling safe in their homes, workplaces, and communities. Black women are disproportionately affected by crime and violence, and it is essential for them to feel safe in order to engage in self-care activities. This can be done by taking steps to improve personal safety. This means being aware of one’s surroundings, and also advocating for policies that promote safety in Black women’s communities.

More context on the idea of safety and security in selfcare

Another way in which security can be a pillar of selfcare for Black women is by ensuring they have access to resources. This includes access to food, housing, healthcare, and education. Black women are disproportionately affected by poverty, and it is essential for them to have access to resources in order to improve their overall well-being. This can be done by advocating for policies that promote economic justice and by seeking out resources in the community.

Security also includes feeling financially stable. Financial stability is an important aspect of self-care for Black women, as it allows them to meet their basic needs, provide for their families, and plan for the future. Financial stability can be achieved by creating a budget, building an emergency fund, and investing in long-term savings.

Some final thoughts

In conclusion, security is a critical aspect of selfcare for Black women. Black women have unique challenges that need to be addressed in order for them to truly take care of themselves. Security can be achieved by feeling safe in one’s environment, having access to resources, and feeling financially stable. Self-care is not limited to physical and mental wellness, but it should include all aspects of well-being, including security. By including security in their self-care practices, Black women can improve their overall well-being, feel more in control of their lives, and navigate the challenges they face with resilience and determination.

A few tips on how Black women can incorporate security into their selfcare practices

1. Take steps to improve personal safety. This includes being aware of one’s surroundings, avoiding dangerous areas, and carrying pepper spray or a personal alarm.
2. Advocate for policies that promote safety in Black women’s communities. This includes supporting initiatives to reduce crime and violence, and advocating for increased funding for community policing programs.
3. Seek out resources in the community. This includes connecting with local organizations that provide support with food, housing, healthcare, and education.
4. Create a budget and invest in long-term savings. This includes creating a budget to manage your finances, building an emergency fund, and investing in long-term savings to ensure financial stability.
5. Seek out therapy or counselling. This includes seeking out therapy or counseling to help you process any trauma or stress that you may be experiencing.
6. Connect with other Black women for support. An example would be connecting with other Black women in your community, or joining a support group. This can provide a sense of community and support to help you navigate the challenges you face.
7. Prioritize self-care and make it a regular practice.This means including security as a regular self-care practice, and incorporating it into your daily routine.

An important reminder about security and self care

It’s important to remember that selfcare is a continuous journey that requires patience and consistency. It’s essential to find what works best for you, and to be kind to yourself when implementing these tips. Remember that security is a critical aspect of self-care for Black women, and it’s essential to include it in order to improve overall well-being, feel more in control of one’s life, and navigate the challenges they face with resilience and determination.

Some real life examples of how Black women can incorporate safety and security into their self-care practices

1. Example 1: A Black woman who lives in a high-crime area can take steps to improve her personal safety. This includes taking a self-defense class, avoiding dangerous areas, and carrying pepper spray or a personal alarm. She can also advocate for policies that promote safety in her community, such as increased funding for community policing programs. Additionally, she can seek out resources in the community, such as counseling or therapy, to help her process any trauma or stress she may be experiencing.
2. Example 2: A Black woman who is struggling financially can take steps to improve her financial stability. This includes creating a budget, building an emergency fund, and investing in long-term savings. She can also seek out resources in the community, such as job training programs or financial counseling. Additionally, she can connect with other Black women for support, such as joining a support group or connecting with a financial advisor.

Last but not least

It’s important to remember that self-care is a continuous journey that requires patience and consistency. It’s essential to find what works best for you, and to be kind to yourself when implementing these tips. Remember that security is a critical aspect of self-care for Black women, and it’s essential to include it in order to improve overall well-being, feel more in control of one’s life, and navigate the challenges they face with resilience and determination. Also, be sure to check out my virtual book shelf for some of the best books for women this year! Please be safe out there my sistas!

Holiday cooking season

Hello fall and winter holiday cooking season, y’all! Nothing says cozy and yummy in this cold climate like a spicy pot of my healthy collard greens recipe. Collard greens are steeped in the traditions of the black diaspora in the Americas and beyond. They are also a favorite dish for this time of the year. However, I’ve since switched this dish up and made it into a much healthier and healing version of the original recipe. Granted, while most folks have their own little somethin’, somethin’ they add to the mix, mine takes it to another level.

A little bit of history regarding this dish

While most folks in North America now associate collard greens with the southern region of the country, this dish is unique. It’s roots tie back to the dark history of this country. Collard greens is a dish that evolved from the creativity and tenacity of the lived experiences of enslaved black people. This dish has since become a southern delight and staple during the holidays in the U.S. When African enslaved people toiled and suffered at the hands of white supremacy and slave masters, they were fed scraps and unwanted portions, cuts of meat, etc. These food scraps consisted of greens that were considered inedible weeds or low quality by slave owners. Enslaved Africans took these scraps, coupled with their knowledge of spices and food ways, and created a dish that nourished and sustained the body.

An indomitable will to survive and preserve cultural food ways

Out of their drive to survive and thrive, Africans in the diaspora adapted their native spices, herbs, knowledge and creativity. In the end, they made food that was both palatable and delicious. We now call much of these adaptations and innovative foods “soul food”. Now, collard greens have become popularized as the “cool and spicy” food to eat and part of “American” culture.  My version has been further adapted to craft a healthy collard greens recipe that builds on the history of my people.

Health benefits of this delicious recipe 

1. fibre is just one of the many benefits of this recipe.
2. Vitamins k, A, B, C and E are some of the amazing nutrients in these greens. Also, they’re rich in essential minerals. These include potassium, phosphorus, manganese, selenium, iron, magnesium and zinc).

3. Bone broth is loaded with collagen, is gut healing, and promotes immune function. Not only that, it also improves bone and joint health, as well as anti-inflammatory.

4. Other ingredients provide a great source of protein and are anti-inflammatory. You can read more about the health benefits of these spices on anothe one of my post when you click this link.

Ingredients for this healthy collared greens recipe

1. Collard greens (4 cups thin shredded)

2. mustard greens and, or purple kale (2 cups, thin shredded)

3. smoked turkey necks (1 pound)

4. Organic bone broth (2 cups)

5. Smoked paprika (2 tablespoon)

6. Curry powder (1 1/2 tablespoons)

7. Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon)

8. Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon)

9. 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

10. 2 garlic cloves

9. Allspice (1/4 teaspoon)

9. Sea salt (1 1/2 tablespoon of sea salt)

10. Chili powder (1/2 teaspoon)

11. Turmeric powder (1/2 teaspoon)

12. Fresh ground black pepper (1/4 teaspoon)

You can adjust both the salt and chili powder according to your taste. We love our version of this healthy collard greens recipe, spicy! Also, I’ve got more healthy and delicious dishes right here

Also, check out the video of this recipe right here, to see just how delicious this amazing recipe is!

Preparation (approximately 2hrs)

what would ordinarily take you over 6 hours to prepare, we can cut down the time to 2hours. This is because in order to make a great quality bone broth, the bones must simmer for about 6 hours. Extracting the collagen and other beneficial nutrients from the bones requires a lot of time. Especially if you want to reap all of the health benefits as well as develop the flavour of the broth. Using an organic bone broth brand saves you a lot of time. However, I prefer to make mine from scratch.

bring your bone broth to a gentle simmer while adding in your spices, etc. Next, add the smoked turkey bones, garlic and red onions. Allow it to simmer for about 45 mins and then add in your shredded greens. Once you’ve added the shredded greens, turn down the heat to medium-low heat and allow to simmer for an hour. Occasionally stir the greens and take a fork to shred the meat from the turkey neck bones. Allow to simmer on very low heat for an additional 15 mins and then turn off the heat. Next, allow it to sit for a few mins and then serve hot with corn and flax meal bread.

A great after-dinner holiday tea (or tisane)

Happy holidays to everyone around the world and bon appetite! With all of the delicious dishes being served for the holidays, I can’t forget about drinks. My after dinner holiday tea recipe is a perfect way to end our holiday meal. For different parts of the world, the spices vary for this soothing beverage.

A brief history

For centuries, people have created beverages as accompaniments to their meals. This is especially true for the holiday and festival seasons. From parts of Africa, the middle and Asia, many drink after dinner teas on regular basis. In Victorian England, these were known as tisanes rather than tea. Tisanes are usually made from fresh or dried plant parts like leaves, flowers, crushed seeds, etc. As to whether or not other folks have their own after dinner holiday tea recipe, I’m guessing I’m not alone.

Health benefits of my after dinner tea recipe

If you’ve been following my blog for a while, you’ll remember that I’m all about function and flavor. I love creating an after dinner tea recipe each season. Since it’s fall heading into winter, here, it’s time for my holiday blend. today’s recipe is no different and features a blend of spices that are great for the stomach. This after dinner holiday tea recipe also includes spices that remind of you fall and winter goodies! All of these ingredients are particularly great for gut health, which is the back bone of our immune system.

More on this

My spice blend is anti-inflammatory, supports the immune system, is anti-microbial and anti-viral. For example, caraway and coriander alleviate bloat, IBS, and indigestion. Other benefits of this tea blend include, helping to alleviate diarrhoea as well as constipation. Mint soothes the stomach and helps alleviate nausea. All if not most of these ingredients, promote a healthy gut, immune system and so much more. You can read more about the benefits in some of my favourite tea recipes like this one by clicking right here!

Here are the ingredients you will need

1. 1/4 cup of ginger (fresh)

2. 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds, freshly ground

3. 1/2 teaspoon of coriander

4.  1/2- 1 whole medium cinnamon stick

5. 1/4 cup of finely shredded mint leaves

6. 1/4 tea spoon of fresh, ground green cardamom

7. 1/4 cup of  gingered honey

8. 24 ounces of filtered water

About the gingered honey

For how to make gingered honey, click here to get the recipe and how you can switch it up for a variety of purposes. Since I’m an avid herbal tea drinker, I love to make my own gingered honey. Don’t be afraid or intimated about making it yourself because it is easy to make. Just keep in mind that you will need to give it sufficient time to cure and develop it’s potency.

Making your after dinner holiday tea

First, bring your water to a gentle boil and then add your fresh ground ingredients. Toss in your cinnamon stick and fresh shredded ginger, turning down the heat to a low simmer for about 10 mins. Next, add your gingered honey with your fine shredded mint leaves for an additional 3-5 mins. Finally, turn off the heat and strain your after dinner holiday tea. You can then garnish your tea with a pinch of fresh mint and add more honey to taste.

Final thoughts before you go

Spices add flavour, complexity and in a lot of instances, a variety of healing elements to every dish you create. This is one of the main reasons why I’m so passionate about decolonizing your traditional food ways in addition to knowing what is actually in your food. Food has a tremendous capacity to heal the body and is often the first place to go in order to heal your body naturally. If you have doubts about the power of spices in your food, you can read what John Hopkins Medicine states right here. Also, make sure you subscribe and follow my blog to get the latest updates, posts, and more!