Rooted in the Rock: A Self-Care Love Letter to Black Women
There’s something powerful about standing tall against the backdrop of ancient rock formations—weathered, unbothered, and beautiful. Much like the photo of myself, I am rooted in strength and serenity. Black women across the world are rediscovering the importance of taking up space—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
This photo, taken among the breathtaking red rocks and open sky, reminds us of a truth we often forget: you belong in nature too. You are allowed to rest, to be still, to breathe deeply. You are allowed to find peace.
Reclaiming Nature as a Healing Space
While attending the Society of Industrial Organizational Psychology Conference, I extended my stay to take advantage of the scenery in Colorado. The outdoors haven’t always felt accessible to us, but nature belongs to us too. Whether it’s hiking, meditating by water, or simply sitting in sunlight, reconnecting with the earth is revolutionary self-care. The land holds our stories—of ancestors who endured and thrived—and reminds us we are deeply rooted, resilient, and worthy of rest.
“I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order.” — John Burroughs
“The land has always been a part of our liberation.” — Leah Penniman
The Power of Stillness
There is a quiet confidence in standing still. In that stillness, we can listen to our bodies, our hearts, and our needs. Stillness isn’t the absence of action; it’s the presence of intention. Take moments to unplug, to stretch, to rest your edges and your soul.
“Rest is a form of resistance because it disrupts and pushes back against capitalism and white supremacy.” — Tricia Hersey
“There is a voice that doesn’t use words. Listen.” — Rumi
Dress for Your Joy
In the image, I am wearing black—not as armor, but as chic outdoor elegance. I have always dressed myself based on how I felt or wanted to feel. Your self-care doesn’t need to be aesthetic for others; it’s about what makes you feel grounded. Whether you’re in sweats or Sunday best, wear what empowers your joy.
“When you look good, you feel good, and when you feel good, you do good.” — Oprah Winfrey
“Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak.” — Tracee Ellis Ross
Community with Yourself First
So often, Black women are the glue in our families, communities, and workplaces. But what if you built the same relationship with yourself that you give to everyone else? Speak to yourself with kindness. Show up for yourself like you do for your people.
“Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.” — Audre Lorde
Let the Land Mirror You
Look at those rocks—bold, unshaken, unapologetically shaped by time. Let them reflect back to you your own strength and uniqueness. You are not here to be small. You are here to rise, even through erosion.
“You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” — Maya Angelou
“I am my ancestors' wildest dreams.” — Ava DuVernay
A Final Word
Dear Black woman, you are not required to earn rest. You do not have to hustle for your healing. The earth, the sun, and your breath remind us: your wellness is non-negotiable. Stand tall. Take up space. And let joy, nature, and stillness become part of your healing ritual.
“And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance, I hope you dance.” — Lee Ann Womack
“I am deliberate and afraid of nothing.” — Audre Lorde
“Give light and people will find the way.” — Ella Baker
Author: Dr. Cyntoya Campbell, PhD, LCSW, LCAC, CCTP
References
Angelou, M. (2009). Letter to My Daughter. Random House.
Baker, E. (n.d.). Give light and people will find the way [Quote].
Burroughs, J. (n.d.). Nature quotes. Retrieved from https://www.goodreads.com/quotes
DuVernay, A. (n.d.). Twitter post.
Hersey, T. (2022). Rest is resistance: A manifesto. Hachette UK.
Lorde, A. (1988). A burst of light: Essays. Firebrand Books.
Penniman, L. (2018). Farming while Black: Soul Fire Farm's practical guide to liberation on the land. Chelsea Green Publishing.
Ross, T. E. (n.d.). Quote on personal style. Retrieved from https://www.goodreads.com/quotes
Rumi. (n.d.). There is a voice that doesn't use words. Listen. [Quote].
Winfrey, O. (n.d.). Quotes on confidence. Retrieved from https://www.oprah.com
Womack, L. A. (2000). I hope you dance [Recorded by Lee Ann Womack]. MCA Nashville.
