Community Corner with Toyshebia Napper

The body heals with PLAY, the mind healswith LAUGHTER, and the spirit heals withJOYBuddhist Proverb

Hi Pretty Smart Chics! We are officially in Spring. Yes, Lovelies; days are filled with sunshine, rainstorms, flowers, pollen, and laughter. Spring has sprung, and we are more than ready. We prepare our homes with spring cleaning - yes, the joys of spring cleaning. LOL

Are you making plans around the house to dust ceiling fans, wipe down baseboards, clean window sills and open windows? A deep cleaning of the home to welcome in the sunlight and fresh air? A good spring cleaning helps us embrace the warmth, growth, life, and essence of the season. The words light, airy, and refreshing come to mind. Out with the cold and dreariness of winter, and we beckon the warmth and brightness of Spring. Come a little closer so we can discuss ways that allow you to continue to renew, refresh, and brighten the light you share with the world.

What about your mind, body, and spirit? Do you conduct a good old-fashioned Spring cleaning of self? I know you are saying, “Wait; we are still in the beginning of the year.” Most people end December and start January with new year resolutions, promises, goals, and overall declarations of new year, new me. Somewhere between January 15 and March 31, people lose a little steam. The first quarter can hold energy, clarity, and promises that become intertwined with chaos, blurry vision, and lost focus. What happened? The simple answer is life. Let’s be honest: the 2020s have been epic, and we never know what is around the corner; however, it does not take away from our ability to live a fulfilled, joyful, and successful life. So, we need to reset and do a little spring cleaning within ourselves.

Where are you on your personal goals and aspirations? In short, what do you want for yourself? It is easy to get caught up in the different roles we perform for others. Whether personal or professional, any relationship comes with a level of expectations. You can forget or lose your true desires, needs, and voice. Take the time to embrace YOU, reacquaint with your thoughts, voice, and peace of mind. Hobbies and self reflections are key. Spending a day in the park, dancing around the house to music, and meditating can be great ways to recenter and refresh.

A healthy body can promote a healthy mind. Look, you may never get back into those jeans from high school; however we all can be healthier. Eat healthier and cleaner while enjoying - in moderation - our favorite guilty pleasures and treats. Developing a better quality of life is the goal. I know your schedule is busy; however, make time for walking, swimming, or dancing in your week. Have fun while improving your health. We cannot forget about the spirit. The spirit is the center of your being, the foundation and essence of you. What do you believe? Are you feeding your spirit? Strengthen your spirit in whatever is your belief. When mind, body, and spirit are renewed, refreshed, and aligned, we find life easier to navigate. We forgive quicker, love harder, endure more, and produce like never before. Remember to embrace joy, have fun, and love all you do!!!!

Credits: Connolly, John. “The Killing Kind.” QuotesLyfe.com. https://www.quoteslyfe.com/quote/The-nature-of-humanityits-essence-is-135265 Daily Inspirational Quotes. https://www.dailyinspirationalquotes.in/2014/04/use-your-voice-for-kindness-yourears-for-compassion-your-hands-for-charity-your-mind-for-truth-and-your-heart-for-love-anonymous-selfimprovement-quotes/ Merriam-webster.com. 2021. Definition of COMPASSION. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pleasure> [Accessed 2 October 2021].

Toyshebia is a Behavioral Health Assistant, Lead for Fulton County Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities Department. She has a degree in Psychology from Valdosta State University. Ms. Napper has over 15 years of experience in social outreach, volunteer coordination, project development, training, and social work. She has worked for various agencies such as AID Atlanta and Avita Community Partners. Ms. Napper has collaborated with numerous non-profit organizations. Her work in the community reflects her heart’s desire to improve the quality of life for all individuals