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We’re always on the hunt for the next great bedtime routine.
Image courtesy of Lauren Ash
Her vision included inclusiveyoga,breathwork,meditation, and other mind-body practices that promote healing.
Were here to unapologetically expand the consciousness of Black women to transform.
Period, the BGIO about pagereads.
Courtesy of Lauren Ash
I think the fact that I literally took a bath before this conversation is indicative of that.
It’s really whatever the day is calling for.
But moments of either a mindful pause and stillness or mindful movement are definitely my go-to.
This past year was the first year that I cultivated an intentional nighttime practice.
I usuallytake a bath.
I’ll put Epsom salt in there that has magnesium in it, which relaxes the muscles.
I usually put a little essential oil in there as well.
Lavender is definitely a go-to.
I used some of their new bath salts, which was really nice.
And it’s very warming as well.
Kundalini yoga is really about an experience.
The other day I was reading Adrienne Maree BrownsPleasure Activism.
Then I listen to a little music, a little beautiful chorus.
I just gravitate toward really soulful or spiritual vibes, or sometimes a mix of them both.
And then I hop in the bed.
When the pandemic hit, I had recently moved back home with family.
So I did not have my own space for the first seven months of the pandemic.
I got a Tempur-Pedic bed this year, and that has been a game changer.
So maybe the nest is your bed, right?
I ask myself, How can I make this bed the most delicious possible set up for my sleep?
Not just plop into the bed.
And I don’t say that with judgment either.
Again, that’s me sometimes still.
That’s me when I’m not able to pour and give to myself from a full cup.
I have a bunch of amazing pillows.
I never was a pillow person before this year, quite honestly.
I was like, why do people have so many pillows in their bed?
I also am very sensitive to light, so I like to put an eye pillow over my face.
I’ve found that I feel more safe and supported when I do that.
It’s just that cozy feel, like a hug.
Really just creating an environment of ease and support.
How often do you notice that you’re holding your breath or unnecessarily clenching your jaw?
It takes mindful awareness and mindful intention to actually let go.
We are really excited at Black Girl in Om to have just released ourBeauty Sleep EP.
It features three different guided meditative practices and affirmations.
One of them is an embodiment ritual, so you could press play on that.
And perhaps before you do, you stretch a little bit in your bed.
I’m a really big fan of Solfeggio frequencies.
Solfeggio frequencies are different calming frequencies that you could listen to as you’re going to bed.
Its something that works for meI don’t have to work it.
I’m too light of a sleeper for that, though.
Sleep is not just about physical rest.
It’s also about the mental, the spiritual, the emotional.
This interview has been edited and condensed for length and clarity.
