CONNECT, a yanasisters publication (SPRING 2025 - I CHOOSE ME)
Spring 2025
FOUNDER & PRESIDENT
Connection Coach, Speaker, Retreat Facilitator, Meditation Teacher, Reiki Master, Doula, Sound Healer, Author, and Attorney Imani Monica McCullough is a vibrant voice for women worldwide. Through her transformative platform, YANAsisters, she thrives on helping women live more passionate and authentic lives.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
A writer since she was 8 years old, a reader since 3, today Kellyn O. McGee’s essence of being a learner and teacher shows up as a law professor, editor, certified yoga teacher, podcast lover, and owner of a virtual book cellar –with a collection waiting for the right moment to be savored.
I CHOOSE ME
Dr. Adrianne Rochelle Pinkney is the founder of B. Well: Live Consciously, a wellness and life coaching company offering retreats, coaching, and training with an emphasis on mindfulness, career coaching, and codependency. Adrianne enjoys reading, traveling, hosting dinner parties, and spending time with her daughters.
Dr. Anita Moore-Bohannon is a higher education leader and wellness advocate who believes rest is a birthright. She founded Well Be Us, a community helping Black and Brown women reclaim rest and reconnect. As VP of Student Affairs, Anita champions equity, belonging, and well-being.
Briene M. Simmons is a former All-American track star turned healthcare project manager, with a Master of Healthcare Administration. In her current role, she leads strategic initiatives and drives innovation. Outside of work, Brie enjoys mentoring, photography, and staying active through running and fitness.
Carrie Kamau is a digital marketing strategist from Kenya focused on brand storytelling and online community building. She also values stillness, solo dates, and nurturing her well-being—grounding in quiet, intentional self-connection.
Tanya Davis is a licensed mental health therapist with over a decade of experience supporting others through life’s valleys. She has worked in addiction recovery, college counseling, and private consulting. After hours, Tanya enjoys playing tennis in recreational leagues.
Tashiana Cheeks is a wellness advocate and founder of Balance and Evolve. With a background in coaching, project management, and public health, she helps others live with intention. A certified yoga instructor, Tashiana uses breathwork and body care to foster balance.
IN THIS ISSUE
8 “Just Let Go” – Adrianne Pinkney: “I am a mother of twin four-year-old girls and a two-and-a-halfyear-old. In this season, rest looks like reclaiming space and time that belongs to me alone. . . Rest is the quiet where I can hear my voice again. It is solitude, unbothered and uninterrupted.”
14 “I Have A Father” –Carrie Kamau: “I used to be a ‘yes person’ without realizing it. Now, I pause before committing to anything, ensuring that I say yes from a place of balance, not burnout.”
16 “To Worship You I Live” –Anita Moore-Bohannon: “[Rest] looks like listening to my mind and body, saying no without guilt, and connecting with God daily to find my grounding. It’s releasing the need to always grasp for more and instead embracing the abundance of what’s already here.”
22 “Be Still” – Tanya Davis: “I’ve escaped the judgment of myself and the expectations to do it all. I’ve escaped the need to be the problem-solver for everyone in my life. I released the need to be perfect and to embrace the process of being.”
25 “The Lazy Song” – Briene M. Simmons: “I had to stop justifying rest to those with unrealistic expectations, let go of being a people-pleasing workaholic, and learn to unapologetically take care of myself before taking care of others.”
28 “Slow Down” – Tashiana Cheeks: “Rest is as important as the air you breathe. It’s rejuvenation for your cells and your nervous system. If you want to be well, you must rest.”
LETTER
FROM THE FOUNDER
My sisters,
A cancer diagnosis has a way of making you reexamine your life.
Not in the dramatic, “life-flashing-before-youreyes” way you see in movies—but in a quiet, almost scientific way. Like an expedition into your own choices, your own habits, asking: What, if anything, could I have done differently? What, if anything, did I ignore for too long?
For me, the easy part was asking questions about the physical stuff—what I was eating, how often I moved my body, and what I had unknowingly been exposed to in my environment over the years.
But the harder questions were the emotional ones.
The stress.
The anxiety.
The grief.
The over-functioning.
The habit of putting myself last. And maybe hardest of all—the rest I rarely gave myself permission to take.
How many times did I push through when my body was begging me to pause?
How often did I equate rest with weakness or laziness—even when I knew better?
The funny thing is, if you looked at my social media feed, you’d think I had mastered the art of rest: I travel. I retreat. I post ocean views and mountaintop reflections. . . But what those pictures didn’t show was the backstory of the most challenging times in my life—60-to-80 hour workweeks, helping with the physical care of a critically ill parent when I could get home to Houston and worrying about her when I could not, and stress that used to follow me, even to the beach.
Even when my body was still, my mind was often spinning.
So, I did something radical in 2023. . . I paused.
What began as a “gap year” has become 20 months (and counting) of unlearning, realigning, and reclaiming my life. For the first
time, I’m choosing myself—my peace, my healing, my breath—in a way that some may never understand. And I know I’m not alone.
We live in a world that glorifies “grinding” and busyness, even as it quietly (and not so quietly) breaks us down. Most women struggle with giving themselves permission to rest. And Black women, in particular, have been taught to survive everything without slowing down long enough to feel anything. In fact, research shows that Black women in the U.S. experience some of the highest levels of chronic stress and the lowest levels of consistent rest—contributing to elevated rates of hypertension, heart disease, anxiety, and burnout. Which is why on Harriett Tubman’s birthday (March 10), we celebrated a National Day of Rest.
So, this issue is a love letter. A declaration. A permission slip.
This issue is about choosing ourselves and reclaiming rest—not as a luxury or reward, but as a birthright.
As medicine.
As resistance.
As the sacred reset we all deserve.
Whether you’re in a season of full pause or can only find ten quiet minutes between responsibilities, I hope this issue helps you exhale. I hope it reminds you that you don’t have to earn your rest.
You already are enough.
With love and restoration,
P.S. Thank you to the phenomenal women who contributed to this issue—women of different ages, backgrounds, and professions who, despite their differences, remind us of one shared truth: rest is not optional.
Yoga
IS A PRAYER
by Kellyn McGee
As I’m writing this, I am gently holding on to my last days of Spring Break. “Gently” because, although this has been a tiring semester and year, I decided I wouldn’t do anything on my “to do” list if it could wait: get a new emissions sticker, get rid of old clothes, prepare for my last few weeks of classes.
I also let go of my “could do” list: a day trip to NYC to visit museums, go to the movies, drive to some areas near me I’ve been wanting to visit, a last-minute trip to a beach. I decided to just be and do things as they came, if I wanted to.
I did have a couple of lunches with friends, tried a new yoga class, read a novel, and took my dog to daycare (we both needed that!). I could say, “Oh, I needed that break!”
And I did need it, but in this instance “break” really did equal “rest.” The week wasn’t about filling my time. Rather, it was a respite from a difficult semester, a difficult transition in our government, and some personal challenges.
When I was younger, maybe even as an adult, I equated “rest” to “sleep”: “Did you get enough rest?” “You look well-rested.” “Make sure to lay your body down and rest.” But I’ve come to realize that, for me, rest and sleep aren’t the same. I now know the difference between “let me close my eyes for a minute” and napping. Sleep, I believe, is for the body and mind, equally. Being still and resting is for the mind and soul, with benefits to the body. Rest is the purposeful letting go and taking in.
One of my devices allows me to unlock it with my fingerprint. It tells me to “rest to open.” Rest. To open. Isn’t that what rest gives us? An opening? I’ve found that purposefully slowing down stops the world from spinning and dissolves tension, opening my mind up to new ways to see my concerns and new ways to resolve them. Resting also allows my creativity to flow, rather than me trying to force my ideas into fruition.
I don’t know when this realization came to me, but my decade-long journey in yoga has solidified it for me. Resting to open is salient in the practice of yoga. In our restorative practices and resting poses, we are slowing all the way down to allow what we need to come in. We are allowing our mind and body and spirit to open up and receive.
I hope that you take some time to rest well, Sis.
Three Ways Yoga Taught Me to Rest—and How You Can Too
Rest is Resilience
Rest gives us the steadiness to continue. Rest is both the gathering of strength to move forward and the contracting of our self when necessary.
Experience this by doing some body circles. Sit cross-legged and close your eyes. As you inhale, bring your heart forward, and begin to move your torso in a circle, exhaling as you curve your body toward the back. Inhale as your heart is forward, exhale as you contract. Try this for several breaths, pausing at some point to change directions of your circle. See how you bring your heart forward to face the world on your inhale and, as you retreat, gather strength on your exhale.
Rest is Resistance
Rest prepares us to stand our ground or say “no” when necessary.
Sitting still, inhale for a count of four, hold the breath for a count of four, exhale for a count of four, and hold for a count of four. Do three to five rounds of this. You may notice in the beginning that your body or mind might want to breathe when you’re holding it or that you might want to inhale or exhale faster. See how you’re able to resist those urges as you continue to sit
and focus on counting, breathing, and holding.
Rest is like this. We might want to move, get up, reach for a phone when we’ve decided to rest for a few moments, but the longer we stay in rest, we are equipped to resist those actions that want to take rest from us. And this prepares us to resist those things in life that try to tell us to hurry up, move in another way, or focus our whole attention outward. Rest is an inner practice that teaches us to not always say “yes” to outer forces.
Rest is Rejuvenation
Rest is what gives us the energy to move forward. A full restorative yoga practice shows the benefits of slowing the body down for the sole purpose of restoring. So does one of my favorite poses, if you don’t have an hour or so to restore.
Legs Up the Wall is a great way to rest and reenergize your mind and body. One way to get into the position is to sit on the floor, place one hip against the wall, and turn to place the back of your legs on the wall. Try this for 20 minutes. An eye pillow and a blanket or sandbag on your belly are great additions to the practice. Waterfall is similar pose but, rather than your legs being against the wall, lie down with a block under your sacrum with your legs raised in the air.
JUST LET GO
by Dr. Adrianne Pinkney
Location: Charlotte, NC and Atlanta, GA
Capture Photography by Mick & Tiffany, LLC
How do you define rest?
Rest is the sacred pause where my mind, body, and spirit find refuge and renewal. It is the stillness that allows me to exhale, to soften, to simply be. Rest is not a luxury; it is a necessity, a reclamation of wholeness.
Rest is mental stillness—the quieting of the relentless thoughts, the loosening of the mental grip that constantly urges me to plan, to produce, to anticipate the next move.
Rest is emotional peace—the ability to release the burdens I have carried for too long. It is stepping away from the pressure to hold everything together and allowing myself to feel, to process, to be without expectation.
Rest is spiritual grounding—returning to myself, reconnecting with God, the universe, and the sacred stillness that speaks in whispers.
Rest is not just about ceasing work; it is about being replenished.
Rest is an act of love, self-preservation, and a revolutionary reclaiming of my right to simply be.
What does rest look like for you—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—in this season of your life?
I am a mother of twin four-year-old girls and a two-and-a-half-year-old. In this season, rest looks like reclaiming space and time that belongs to me alone. It is rare when no one calls my name, pulls at my body, or needs me. Rest is the quiet where I can hear my voice again. It is solitude, unbothered and uninterrupted.
How has your perspective about rest evolved over time?
I once believed rest was sleep. I thought rest was what happened when I had no other choice, when my body shut down from sheer
depletion. But I’ve learned that proper rest is so much more than closing my eyes—it is a full-body experience, an intentional restoration that extends beyond sleep.
Growing up, what messages did you receive about rest?
Like many children of color, rest was not something I had the privilege of knowing deeply. It was neither encouraged nor seen as a necessary part of life. Instead, it was often equated with laziness, indulgence, or even defiance. Rest was not freely given—it was something you had to earn, something reserved for the moments when you were too exhausted to continue. And even then, it wasn’t truly rest; it was recovery, a temporary pause before getting back to work.
There was no such thing as sleeping in, no lounging around on a Saturday morning. By the time the sun rose, responsibilities had already begun. Idleness was unacceptable, and any sign of stillness was met with the assumption that you weren’t being productive enough. The message was clear: your value is tied to what you do, what you accomplish, and how much you contribute.
I was conditioned to be a human-doing rather than a human-being. I learned that to be successful I had to work twice as hard, push past exhaustion, and never show signs of slowing down. Productivity was survival.
I now understand the power of stillness. Rest is not something that needs to be justified. It is not a reward for exhaustion, nor is it a sign of weakness. Rest is an act of selfpreservation, a declaration that I am enough simply by being.
What lessons do you want to keep, and what do you want to unlearn?
I have had to unlearn the deeply ingrained beliefs of grind culture—beliefs that shaped my understanding of success, self-worth, and
rest. I believed that relying on others was risky, that delegation was a sign of weakness, and that I had to carry the entire load myself if I wanted to succeed. This belief led to exhaustion, as I constantly took on more than I should have, afraid that releasing control would lead to failure.
I also learned to over-prepare, over-deliver, and constantly prove my worth. That left little room for rest. Rest was for people who had already “made it,” not for those still climbing.
I’ve learned that there is rest in knowing I don’t have to do it all, and in knowing that I am already enough, without constantly proving, performing, or producing.
Do you ever feel guilty when resting? If so, how do you work through that?
I don’t feel guilty when resting. Rest is a sacred offering. It is an act of trust, an act of surrender. To rest is to acknowledge that I am not the sole architect of my life, that I do not have to carry everything alone. It is to believe that even when I step away and pause, the world will keep turning and God will still be in control.
What are your favorite ways to pause and recharge, especially during stressful times?
I move my body—I work out to release stress. I lean into pleasure—the spa, a warm bath, a deep breath. And sometimes, a really good orgasm is the best reset button.
Capture Photography by Mick & Tiffany, LLC
I MOVE MY BODY—I WORK OUT TO RELEASE STRESS. I LEAN INTO PLEASURE—THE SPA, A WARM BATH, A DEEP BREATH. AND SOMETIMES, A REALLY GOOD ORGASM IS THE BEST RESET BUTTON.
I’ve had to escape the identity of Mothering as my sole existence. I love my children deeply, but I am more than the roles I play for others.
How does rest impact your ability to dream, create, and pursue your purpose?
When I am rested, I am clearer. I hear God more deeply. My creativity flourishes, my decisions become sharper, and my self-trust strengthens. Rest brings me back to myself.
If rest is a birthright, what’s one way you are reclaiming it in your life?
I am taking up space. I am claiming rest without apology, without justification, without waiting until I am falling apart to give myself permission to stop.
Have you ever had to fight for your rest?
What did that look like?
As a mother of three toddlers, every day is a battle for rest—My children are still young enough to believe that I am infinite, that my love and energy flow endlessly, that my hands should always be available to hold, soothe, and carry them. But I am teaching them something different. I am teaching them that even mothers have limits, that even I—so full of love for them—have needs of my own.
I want them to grow up understanding that love does not mean endless sacrifice. That even those who care for others deserve care in return.
This is a lesson I am extending beyond my children. I am teaching my family, my friends, and my community that I am not just a giver—I also deserve to receive. I am learning to set boundaries, to ask for help, to claim my own space. Rest is not just something I need; it is something I am entitled to and must actively protect.
What is one thing you’ve had to “escape” in order to rest more fully?
What advice would you give to another woman struggling to prioritize rest?
Sis, rest is not something you have to earn. It is your divine right. You were not created to run yourself into the ground, to pour endlessly without replenishment, to wear exhaustion as a badge of honor. You do not have to wait until you are completely depleted, until you are crawling toward rest as a last resort. You deserve care simply because you exist.
Rest is not a privilege; it is a necessity. It is not something that comes after you’ve proven yourself—it is something that sustains you so you can continue to be.
What’s one hope or prayer you have for your sisters when it comes to rest?
Sisters, I pray your rest is abundant, unbothered, and deeply restorative. May it meet you where you are and fill you in ways you never imagined.
And, finally, what song title or lyrics describe how you feel about REST?
“Just let go, let it flow, let it flow, let it flow… everything is gonna work out right, you know.”
FEATURE QUESTION:
WHAT DOES REST MEAN TO YOU?
“Rest is an expression of care and love for self and the receipt of unsolicited expressions of love and care from others. It’s our connection to the divine, a way of honoring what has already been completed.”
Keisha R.
“Rest means disconnecting from the world and reconnecting with the spirit to reset your mind, body, and soul.”
Andrea W
“Rest means mental, spiritual, and physical peace. Unfortunately, I rarely get all three at the same time. You have to be intentional.”
Shelia P.
“Rest is phone silenced. Room darkened. 2 PM nap until the cows come home.”
Fran C.
“Rest is a time to relish the quiet, and let your mind and body be still. Encourage your spirit to find joy in rest and release the pressure of obligation and responsibility.”
Stephanie J.
“Rest means to give it all to God and just breathe.”
I HAVE A FATHER
by Carrie Kamau
BIO
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Occupation: Communications & Marketing Consultant
Age: 27
How do you define rest?
On weekdays, rest means putting away my devices before bed, sipping chamomile tea, and getting a full night’s sleep. On weekends, it’s about spending time with my mom and brother, going swimming, soaking up the sun, or occasionally binging a movie.
What does rest look like for you—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—in this season of your life?
• Physically: Getting enough sleep—actually resting, not just lying in bed.
• Emotionally: Feeling safe enough to express my
emotions with loved ones and knowing they hold space for me.
• Spiritually: Listening to Charis Bible School teachings on topics that inspire me.
How has your perspective on rest evolved over time?
As I’ve grown older, more has been expected of me. I used to be a “yes person” without realizing it. Now, I pause before committing to anything, ensuring that I say yes from a place of balance, not burnout.
Growing up, what messages did you receive about rest?
Rest was mostly framed as “go to bed” or “get some sleep.” School breaks meant visiting my grandparents—not explicitly for rest, but in hindsight, those visits were deeply restorative.
What lessons do you want to keep, and what do you want to unlearn?
I want to keep the habit of retreating to my grandparents’ home—those moments of stillness were invaluable. I also want to unlearn the idea that rest is earned only after exhaustion. Instead, I am learning to prioritize rest before I reach my limit.
Do you ever feel guilty when resting? If so, how do you work through that?
I do. But I remind myself that I’ve done enough for the day. Rest isn’t a reward—it’s necessary, even when I feel like I haven’t accomplished “enough.”
What are your favorite ways to pause and recharge, especially during stressful times? Sometimes, I need a change of scenery— anywhere but home. Other times, I just want to stay in bed and be still.
Have you ever had to fight for your rest? What did that look like?
Yes. There was a time when stress and worry kept me awake for days. I tried everything— breathing exercises, herbal teas, relaxation
I TRIED EVERYTHING — BEFORE FINALLY REALIZING THAT TRUE REST COMES WHEN I LET GO OF WHAT I CAN’T CONTROL.
techniques—before finally realizing that true rest comes when I let go of what I can’t control.
What is one thing you’ve had to “escape” in order to rest more fully?
The expectations of people who weren’t truly happy for me. Loving them from a distance has brought me so much peace.
How does rest impact your ability to dream, create, and pursue your purpose?
For me, rest and peace go hand in hand. When I am well-rested, I see more clearly— what I’ve accomplished, what’s possible, and how truly blessed I am.
If rest is a birthright, what’s one way you are reclaiming it in your life?
By honoring my limits and no longer overextending myself for the sake of others.
What advice would you give to another woman struggling to prioritize rest?
Nothing is more important than your relationship with yourself. Not work, not relationships (with others), not responsibilities. If you’re constantly giving but never refilling, everything else will suffer. So put everything down, even if just for 10 or 20 minutes, and give yourself the pause you deserve.
What’s one hope or prayer you have for your sisters when it comes to rest?
That every woman has another woman—be it a sister, mother, friend, or community— who reminds her to step back, breathe, and reclaim her rest.
TO WORSHIP YOU I LIVE
by Anita Moore-Bohannon
Location:
Chicago, IL
Occupation:
Founder of Well Be Us Collaborative Age: 51 BIO
How do you define rest?
Rest is anything that restores me… mind, body, and soul. I used to believe that rest was sitting down and relaxing, but the Reclaiming Rest as My Birthright retreat that I recently hosted/cohosted helped me reconnect with rest as being anything that restores me…whether it’s quiet time alone, watching a movie with my family, or dancing the night away with family and friends. Rest does not have one definition. It’s up to the receiver of rest to determine the best path to get there. Rest also goes by other names: restoration,
renewal, recentering, reflection. So, no matter what R word you call it, I hope it’s your friend and a regular part of your life.
What does rest look like for you—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—in this season of your life?
It looks like listening to my mind and body, saying no without guilt, and connecting with God daily to find my grounding. It’s releasing the need to always grasp for more and instead embracing the abundance of what’s already here. It’s having adventures with my family and friends, laughing until my stomach hurts, and playing Just Dance on the Nintendo Switch with my daughter. Rest, for me, is both stillness and movement…it’s whatever brings me back to joy, presence, and renewal.
How has your perspective about rest evolved over time?
I grew up with a Bigma who had been a sharecropper, and she hated to see us sitting still during leisure time. On Saturdays as a kid, all I wanted was to sleep in and watch cartoons, but not in Bigma’s house. We were up at the crack of dawn doing housework. I swear my grandmother was always working and making sure we were working, too. Because we grew up on 15 acres, I learned early on that if I wanted to rest, I had to sneak away and find it for myself. I’d slip off to a quiet corner among the tall pine trees that sprawled through our yard, where I could finally be still. For a long time, I believed that rest was something I could only get alone, hidden away from the demands of others.
But today, I’ve allowed other forms of rest to take root in my life. My rest formula now contains all sorts of ingredients, including walking, dancing, bike rides, new experiences, travel, creative expression, and more. I’ve also realized that capitalism doesn’t make rest easy. It requires active resistance to the hustle-and-grind culture. Social media will have you believing you always need to
do more, have more, and be more. But I’m learning that rest is a form of rebellion, so I resist.
Growing up, what messages did you receive about rest?
Resting was equated with being lazy. My Bigma didn’t want us to be lazy, so we worked a lot. Especially on the weekends when all I wanted was some downtime. Saturdays weren’t for sleeping in or lounging; they were for chores, cleaning, and staying busy. Productivity was the standard, and rest came later, if there was time. The message was clear: being still wasn’t valued, and rest had to be earned. It took me a long time to unlearn that and see rest as something necessary, not something I had to justify.
What lessons do you want to keep, and what do you want to unlearn?
I want to keep the connection to nature, the peace I found among the trees and the value of alone time. Those moments of stillness were sacred, even when I didn’t realize it. And I’m unlearning the idea that stillness is laziness and that I always have to be producing to be worthy. Rest isn’t something to feel guilty about; it’s something to embrace.
Do you ever feel guilty when resting? If so, how do you work through that?
Yes, sometimes… especially when I look around my house and see everything that needs my attention, but all I want to do is relax after a long day (like right now, lol). The guilt creeps in, but I’m learning to recognize it for what it is, a conditioned belief, not the truth. I have rituals for many things in my life, and rest is no different. When guilt shows up, I engage one of my rituals to help me surface and challenge the beliefs standing in my way. Rest isn’t neglecting my responsibilities; it’s making sure I don’t get neglected in the process.
What are your favorite ways to pause and recharge, especially during stressful times?
Meditation, long walks, deep breaths, journaling, listening to music, or just being present with people who fill me up.
Have you ever had to fight for your rest? What did that look like?
Absolutely. It meant learning to say no without guilt, letting go of overcommitment, and giving myself permission to just be instead of always doing.
What is one thing you’ve had to “escape” in order to rest more fully?
Probably other people’s impressions of me, especially when they expect me to do more.. But to be honest, it’s probably me more than anyone else. I’ve had to escape my own expectations—the voice in my head that says, You CAN do it, so you should do it. Just because I can do something doesn’t mean I have the bandwidth to take it on. Learning to honor my limits without guilt has been one of the biggest lessons in reclaiming my rest. Now I choose to prioritize balance and selfcare.
How does rest impact your ability to dream,
create, and pursue your purpose?
For me, rest isn’t optional…it’s necessary to dream, create, and pursue my purpose. I believe Mother Teresa said that God can’t be found in noise and busyness, and I feel that deeply. I need rest to connect with God, and through that connection, I find clarity in my dreams and purpose. When I am rested, my creativity flows freely, and I move through life with more intention and inspiration. Rest isn’t just a pause; it’s the space where everything comes into focus.
If rest is a birthright, what’s one way you are reclaiming it in your life?
I’m reclaiming rest by getting up early in the morning to sit with God and meditate before the day starts for my house. In those quiet moments, before the world starts pulling me in different directions, I give myself the gift of stillness, reflection, and connection.
What advice would you give to another woman struggling to prioritize rest?
Take your rest because capitalism isn’t going to give it to you. The world will always demand more, but you don’t have to wait for permission to pause. Rest is your right, not a reward. And rest doesn’t have to be a vacation somewhere far away; it can be micro-practices like deep breathing, stretching, or simply sitting still for a moment. Small acts of rest add up, and you deserve every single one of them.
What’s one hope or prayer you have for your sisters when it comes to rest?
Dear God, I pray that my sisters will realize that everything they need is with You, in You, and not in the world. May they cease from striving, release the weight of expectations, and find deep contentment in who they already are. Let them return to unconditional love; the kind that doesn’t require proving or performing. May they embrace rest, not as something to be earned, but as something that has always belonged to them. Amen.
YANASISTERS is an intergenerational wisdom circle for women — like you. We’ve created this safe space, this spiritual space, to celebrate our womanhood. Here, with us, you will find healing. You will find happiness. You will find hope.
And most importantly, you will find a new you.
Join us at www.yanasisters.com
WHAT IS YANASISTERS?
Connection is the essence of our community. Whether through our intimate online group, coaching programs, local meetups or one of our transformative destination retreats, we are here to support you in this season of your awakening. We share our stories, our pasts and our pain—lovingly and openly—to show one another that we are more alike than we are different.
We defy the notion that differences divide us. We are women who are all shapes, sizes, skin tones and swag. But our spirits—our souls— are every bit the same. And we only have one rule. Leave all judgment at the door. You arrived here today, not by coincidence, but because you know existing isn’t enough. We believe that too, and we want to support you to manifest something meaningful in your life—whether that something is more joy,
more freedom, more confidence and selflove, a more fulfilling profession or a better relationship. YANA is as much about recovery as it discovery. As you exhale your pain and inhale your passion and purpose, you will find you can do—and be—anything. But first, Superwoman, you must take off the cape.
When you need love, we’re here. When you need an embrace for your body or your soul, we’re here. When you need the freedom to explore those hidden, but treasured, parts of yourself, we’re here.
When you need to free yourself to be yourself, we’re here.
We, your sisters, welcome you with warm, open arms.
BECAUSE YOU ARE NOT ALONE.
“In the Lord, rest is more than a pause; it’s a promise. When we trust Him fully, He restores our souls and carries what we were never meant to bear.”
LaQuita M.
“Rest to me is taking time to exhale what I’ve inhaled. Sometimes we inhale more because of fear of saying ‘No’ to something or someone. Exhaling is a form of self-care and selflove. It requires one to release all toxicity from one’s thoughts and anything that stops one from residing in Peacefulness.”
Debra H.
“Rest is selfcare and mental calmness.”
Sharon C.
BE STILL
by Tanya Davis
How do you define rest?
Rest is an intentional period of bringing your energy to a reset zone. Rest is essential for recalibration and healing.
What does rest look like for you-physically, emotionally, and spiritually-in this season of your life?
During this season of my life: (1) physical rest looks like keeping a consistent sleep schedule and taking 30-minute naps if needed; (2) emotional rest looks like setting boundaries and declining social interactions (when needed); and (3) spiritual rest looks like abstaining from the constant notifications, news reels, and technology that has inundated our lives.
How has your perspective about rest evolved over time?
I now understand that rest is about balance, and I’ve learned to enjoy it without guilt. Our lives are a constant stream of information via our devices and interactions. On an energetic level, this way of living scatters our focus. I’ve come to understand that rest is the way I can fine tune my inner thoughts. It’s not just about relaxation; it’s an intentional process for reconnecting with spirit.
Growing up, what messages did you receive about rest?
The messages I received about rest were affirming. My mother raised me while working full time and earning an undergraduate degree. She took her rest when needed; it gave her the reset she needed to press on. I understood that balance allows you to enjoy the experiences of life.
What lessons do you want to keep and what do you want to unlearn?
I want to continue embracing the restful periods in my life. At times, a constant stream of obligations can make time feel like a blur, draining meaning from daily life. But periods of stillness will come, and I choose to
I ASK MYSELF: CAN I DELEGATE? WHAT’S REALLY IMPORTANT? DOES IT MATTER IF EVERYTHING IS NOT DONE PERFECTLY?
welcome them as opportunities for renewal. I’m learning that being busy or productive all the time can disrupt my intuition. Rest is not just necessary—it’s natural.
Do you ever feel guilty when resting? If so, how do you work through that?
There are times when I rest that I feel “I should” be doing more. There is always something to do — laundry, phone calls, shopping, cooking, running errands. I gently remind myself that time is limited and that it is impossible to get everything done myself. I ask myself: Can I delegate? What’s really important? Does it matter if everything is not done perfectly?
What are your favorite ways to pause and recharge, especially during stressful times? My favorite ways to pause and recharge are to take long walks through a nature trail, sit outside and listen to the sounds of the birds, or listen to inspiring music.
Have you ever had to fight for your rest? What did that look like?
My fight for rest has only been with myself. I had to give myself permission to take care of myself with rest. Grace for myself is key to accepting rest as an essential component to an optimal life.
What is one thing you’ve had to “escape” in order to rest more fully (e.g., unrealistic expectations, burnout, people-pleasing)?
I’ve escaped the judgment of myself and the expectations to do it all. I’ve escaped the need to be the problem-solver for everyone in my life. I released the need to be perfect and to embrace the process of being.
How does rest impact your ability to dream, create, and pursue purpose?
My ability to create is directly related to allowing adequate rest. When my energy is scattered, ideas are buried under the small daily tasks. True creativity comes when your mind and spirit have a moment of “space” to have an idea bubble up between the noise.
If rest is a birthright, what’s one way you are reclaiming it in your life?
I am intentionally turning down the volume, turning down the noise, and turning inward into the vast silence within. Keeping rest as a consistent practice so that it does not need a reclamation.
What advice would you give to another woman struggling to prioritize rest?
I
AM INTENTIONALLY TURNING DOWN THE VOLUME, TURNING DOWN THE NOISE, AND TURNING INWARD INTO THE VAST SILENCE WITHIN. KEEPING REST AS A CONSISTENT PRACTICE SO THAT IT DOES NOT NEED A RECLAMATION.
Without rest you interrupt the natural cycle of regeneration. Understand that rest allows your mind to come up with that creative solution and can make way for the energy you need to get through the next phase. Rest is absolutely essential.
What’s one hope or prayer you have for your sisters when it comes to rest?
My hope for my sisters is to understand that rest is a form of self-care and self-love. Rest is where you draw deep healing for your mind, body and spirit. Affirm that resting is your time to connect to yourself and your spiritual nature.
Lazy Song The
by Briene M. Simmons
Location: Atlanta, GA
Occupation: Healthcare Project Manager Age: 40 BIO
How do you define rest?
I define rest as an opportunity to relax and recharge in whatever way brings you peace, enjoyment, and energy.
What does rest look like for you—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—in this season of your life?
When I seek rest, it is usually to take a break from anything in my life that I find physically, emotionally, or spiritually draining—like work, challenging relationships, etc. Usually, my “rest” includes doing something I really enjoy, like going for a walk or run around Stone Mountain, hiking and taking in beautiful scenery, walking barefoot in the grass to do some grounding, or taking a day to fast from social media and stay in the house to relax and literally do nothing—since I’m always on the go.
Spiritually, I fast by eliminating negative stimuli such as music, social media, the news, TV shows, and/or movies that aren’t in alignment with my beliefs. I do this regularly, and it’s one of the reasons I primarily listen to relaxing instrumentals throughout the day and while driving, instead of listening to the radio.
How has your perspective about rest evolved over time?
In my teens and twenties, I thought rest just meant taking a nap! Now I see rest more dynamically. I’ve become intentional about balancing productivity with thoughtful/ intentional rest—ideally before my body demands it.
Growing up, what messages did you receive about rest?
I can’t recall specific messages, but I do recall having a work mentality that led to resting only when absolutely necessary, instead of resting as a form of preventative health maintenance and self-love/self-care, which is how I now view rest.
What lessons do you want to keep, and what do you want to unlearn?
I primarily want to unlearn the mindset that rest = weakness and/or laziness. I want to keep and evolve the mindset of resting as a form of preventative health maintenance and self-love/self-care.
Do you ever feel guilty when resting? If so, how do you work through that?
Yes. I question whether I am sometimes using rest as a form of procrastination, to avoid doing something I don’t want to do or don’t feel ready/ prepared to do yet. To work through this, there are times when I give myself grace and allow myself to rest, and other times when I encourage myself to complete the task(s) at hand prior to resting.
What are your favorite ways to pause and recharge, especially during stressful times?
It depends on the stressor. I usually go for a walk or run to clear my head, then plan how to address what’s stressing me. If it’s affecting my mindset, I might read a few pages from a favorite book or pause to pray for strength, guidance, and clarity.
During the workday, I play calming instrumentals and take mental breaks every 1–2 hours. I might step outside, enjoy the sun, grab a healthy snack, read, or watch 10 minutes of a show—whatever helps me reset and return refreshed.
Have you ever had to fight for your rest? What did that look like?
YES! I have had to explain the need for rest to my loved ones, reminding them that I work many hours and seldom take time for myself. I ask them to respect my need and desire to rest, and try to reassure them of my love for them.
As an empath, I pick up on and easily carry other people’s emotions, and this is exhausting over time. I often find rest most enjoyable when I am able to be alone and/or with someone who is as empathic as I am so I don’t feel the heaviness of their emotions as much and am able to just be present.
What is one thing you’ve had to “escape” in order to rest more fully (e.g., unrealistic expectations, burnout, people-pleasing)?
Honestly—all of the above. I had to stop justifying rest to those with unrealistic expectations, let go of being a peoplepleasing workaholic, and learn to unapologetically take care of myself before taking care of others. I also shifted my career path to take on roles that allowed for more work/life balance and enabled me to be more intentional about resting when needed without feeling anxious.
How does rest impact your ability to dream, create, and pursue your purpose?
Rest helps me to be present and to be my authentic self. Rest also enables my natural curiosity and creativity to flourish and allows me to manifest my ideas into reality. That, to me, is living with purpose.
If rest is a birthright, what’s one way you are reclaiming it in your life?
By demanding it, unapologetically in a loving and professional way. By seeking the balance between a healthy level of rest and productivity to ensure I don’t become complacent and/or addicted to comfort. By scheduling PTO every two months throughout the year, whether it’s for a stay-cation, a beach trip, or time with loved ones.
What advice would you give to another woman struggling to prioritize rest?
Rest = Wellness
Rest is a birthright
Rest is a form of preventative health maintenance
Rest = self-love
Rest = self-care
I would remind them of the above and encourage them to not feel pressured to justify their need for rest. “You must put your face mask on first before helping others” because if you don’t, you might not be able to help anyone one else, including yourself. So, stop pouring yourself out for others to the point of exhaustion. Instead, fill your cup, and allow others to receive your overflow!
What’s one hope or prayer you have for your sisters when it comes to rest?
My hope/prayer is that women will support and encourage each other to rest when needed, not just through our words, but also through our actions. Whether that means babysitting for a sister so they can rest, helping with house chores or errands, going for a walk together etc.
Too often we don’t want to feel like a burden to others, so we don’t ask for help or share our challenges or needs with one another. My prayer is that we will put down our overthinking and “considerations” and that we will stand in the gap for each other and once again becoming an uplifting/ supportive community.
SLOW DOWN
by Tashiana Cheeks
BIO
Location:
Atlanta and NYC
Occupation:
Entrepreneur, Public Health professional
Age: 47
How do you define rest? What does rest look like for you—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—in this season of your life? Rest looks like inward focus to care for myself, it looks like weekly acupuncture treatments, it looks like mindfulness each night as I bathe and massage myself with the non-toxic body products I create, it looks like deep breathing and long walks in nature. Rest also looks like having days where nothing exists
outside of the present moment where I lose track of time.
How has your perspective about rest evolved over time?
Initially, I believed rest meant sleep. However, I really cultivated my rest practice during yoga teachers training. During this time, rest became another form of meditation.
Growing up, what messages did you receive about rest?
Rest was frowned upon. I often heard “you’re lazy.”
What lessons do you want to keep, and what do you want to unlearn?
Keep: rest is time for healing, renewal and rejuvenation. Unlearn: rest is lazy because there is nothing further from the truth.
Do you ever feel guilty when resting? If so, how do you work through that?
I don’t feel guilty when resting. When I did, I’d complete my tasks before engaging in extended periods of rest.
What are your favorite ways to pause and recharge, especially during stressful times?
Go outside for a walk. Sex. Acupuncture. Healthy meals. Exercise. Hugs. Energy exchange with a person I love.
Have you ever had to fight for your rest?
What did that look like?
I had to fight for rest at work. I felt like a machine and it impacted my physical and mental health.
What is one thing you’ve had to “escape” in order to rest more fully (e.g., unrealistic expectations, burnout, people-pleasing)?
I had to escape expectations of societal norms about work. Additionally, I stood up to and ignored rest bullies.
How does rest impact your ability to dream,
create, and pursue your purpose?
When I’m quiet, I’m able to hear my intuitive voice more clearly. I receive the downloads needed to make important decisions and continue evolving my harmonious life.
If rest is a birthright, what’s one way you are reclaiming it in your life?
As a black woman, who has been a caretaker for so many, rest is my birthright. I’m reclaiming it by focusing inward and resting whenever needed.
What advice would you give to another woman struggling to prioritize rest?
Rest is love. Rest is as important as the air you breathe. It’s rejuvenation for your cells and your nervous system. If you want to be well, you must rest.
What’s one hope or prayer you have for your sisters when it comes to rest?
Dear sister, create moments to rest each day. Even if you’re in the car rider line, arrive early, turn off the car, find something to gaze at, take deep breaths, and rest.
remembering who I AM you haven’t
You’ve just been busy being everything to everyone
It’s time to reconnect with yourself, your joy, your voice
Sautee, Georgia
September 26–28, 2025
Yoga • Meditation • Hiking • Rest
Soul Stirring Workshops • Real Connection
Delicious Food • Breathtaking Views
Spots are limited Come home to you
“Sometimes, the best way I recharge is by doing absolutely nothing—no devices, no conversations, just pure stillness. I disconnect from work, people, family, and friends, allowing God to be my only source in that moment. As the most extroverted introvert, I thrive in social settings, but true restoration comes in solitude with Him.”
Tamara S.
“Rest means to disconnect from all labor to enter a place of peace and tranquility to rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit. This necessary selfcare is for renewal and connection spiritually with God’s peace and strength.”
“Rest means to either stop and silence your mind or just simply slow down.”
Tynisha L.
Katrina B.
“Rest means turning everything off and relaxing your mind. A day or two alone with silence and meditation.”
Tronna F.
YANA “I CHOOSE ME” PLAYLIST
As always, this issue was inspired by a number of beautiful songs! To access the playlist, simply scan the QR code or search for the playlist on Spotify.
Rest Life (Tricia Hersey)
Let It Flow (Toni Braxton)
I Choose Me (Samantha Leah)
The Lazy Song (Bruno Mars)
Slow Down (India Arie)
Let Go (PJ Morton, The Walls Group)
Rise Up (Andra Day)
I am Worthy (Coax Marie)
To Worship You I Live (Israel & New Breed)
Be OK (Samoht)
Don’t You Worry ‘Bout A Thing (Stevie Wonder)
Put Your Records On (Corrine Bailey Rae)
I Have A Father (Chandler Moore)
Stand Up (Cynthia Erivo)
Break My Soul (Beyonce)
All content in Connect is for informational purposes only and should not be considered to be advice or counseling. Always seek professional help in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your health or the health of others.
