Millennial Moms: A Self-Care Guide to Personal Revival

Women's Journal Staff on July 1, 2024

By: Jay Feldman

When did you last take a guilt-free break as a mom? And decided to do something for yourself regularly, without thinking twice about how everyone else would feel or what they would think? Has it been a week or a month? Six months? Or perhaps you are like many Millennial Moms who feel the pressures of motherhood weighing on them, and it has been way longer than you’d like to admit.

In the whirlwind of modern motherhood, where the lines between personal identity and maternal responsibility blur, many women are lost in endless tasks and responsibilities. The demands of nurturing a family, managing a home, and juggling a career for many leave little room for self-care or any form of self-prioritization.

This relentless pace not only exhausts the body but also depletes the spirit, leading to a state where stress, anxiety, and overstimulation become constant companions. I’m willing to bet that many Millennial Moms will attest to this scenario, as it is something they relate to and are familiar with all too well. A cycle of fatigue magnified by an insidious sense of guilt for merely contemplating a moment of respite.

However, nestled within this challenging landscape is an opportunity for renewal, rediscovery, and rejuvenation. It begins with a simple yet transformative realization: prioritizing oneself is not an act of selfishness but an essential practice for your holistic well-being. In embracing self-care, moms can rediscover their essence beyond simply being a mom and take some time to reconnect with their individuality and passions.

And how is one to do this, you may ask? At Silk Skin Co, we believe the cornerstone of this rejuvenation journey is simple…skincare. An accessible gateway to self-nurturance that transcends mere vanity. It’s about carving out moments in the day that belong solely to you; it’s a ritual that says, “I am worthy of this time alone.” Skincare becomes more than skin deep—it’s an act of self-love and positively affirming that your dedication to “me-time” is never done in vain.

“Us Millennial Moms do it ALL! And it’s about time we start taking our self-care seriously. Just because you feel tired, doesn’t mean you have to look like it. Remember, you were someone before you were their mom, so be sure to take care of her.” – Ashley Williams, Founder Silk Skin Co.

This powerful reminder encapsulates our brand mission at Silk Skin Co., urging moms everywhere to break free from burnout by investing in themselves. This commitment extends beyond providing high-quality premium skincare products; we aspire to cultivate a community where Millennial Moms feel seen, supported, empowered and inspired to prioritize their well-being. I’m sure you’ve heard it many times before, but you truly can not pour from an empty cup.

The narrative surrounding motherhood often glorifies sacrifice at the expense of the overall health and even happiness of the mother. Which is why it’s crucial to challenge this norm by asserting that caring for oneself is integral to being able to care for others effectively. Mothers who nurture their own needs are better equipped emotionally, physically, and mentally to handle the complexities of parenting and beyond.

Not to mention that naturally as you adopt skincare as part of your self-care regimen you are bound to reap the multitude of benefits that not only afford you the opportunity to achieve radiant skin, but also instill a powerful mindset shift that fosters a sense of self-confidence and higher self-esteem.

Engaging in a daily skincare routine allows moms to slow down and connect with themselves on a deeper level. The tactile experience of applying skincare products can serve as a meditative activity that ultimately centers the mind, soothes the soul, all while tackling common skin concerns and/or blemishes that you would like to correct or improve.

Moreover, when mothers model self-care practices like skincare routines, they set a positive example by teaching their children valuable lessons about self-respect and healthy boundaries. They demonstrate that personal care is not optional; it’s fundamental—laying the groundwork for generations who recognize the importance of balance and wellness in their lives.

Breaking up with burnout requires intentionality—scheduling time for oneself amidst chaos without succumbing to guilt or external pressures. It involves acknowledging that replenishing one’s spirit through acts like skincare rituals can significantly enhance your overall quality of life.

With that, if this is starting to sound more and more like what you are experiencing as a mom, we invite you to take action, and download our free e-guide, The Balanced Mom: A Self-Care Essentials Guide to Reclaiming Your Time Amidst the Struggles of Millennial Motherhood. This guide was made especially for the mom who is struggling to make the mindset shift to learning how to practically incorporate self-care for a more balanced and fulfilling life. Be sure to download your copy, because like I said, it’s free, so why not?

Our mission at Silk Skin Co is not just about embracing our products but joining a movement towards lightening the physical, emotional, and mental load, where moms reclaim their right to wellness amidst motherhood’s demands. We champion the idea that true beauty emanates from a strong overall well-being. When moms take care of themselves first, they glow differently and they show up differently, because they are fully able to embody resilience, joy, and vitality.

To sum it up (though we tread lightly around such definitive statements), revitalizing one’s essence through dedicated self-care practices marks the beginning of an empowering journey toward rediscovering oneself beyond maternal duties—a path filled with grace, strength, and unparalleled beauty both inside and out. Glow on gorgeous and do not be afraid to prioritize you, because you more than deserve it.

If you are looking to start your journey to prioritizing self-care through skincare, but not sure where to even begin, a great place to start is by taking our Free Skincare Quiz for personalized recommendations from our premium line of skincare products, tools, devices, and accessories.

We also would love to invite you to join our community of supportive women and moms seeking solace in learning how to start, grow, and routinely practice self-care through skincare. You can connect with us across various platforms including Instagram (@_silkskinco_), YouTube (@SILKSKINCO), Pinterest (@trysilkskinco_), and our private Facebook Group (Millennial Momma Selfcare Club).

Through these channels, we laugh, share insights, stories, and tips tailored for busy moms just like you. Whether you are a novice or an expert on your skincare journey, we invite you to visit our website shopsilkskinco.com to explore more information about our products as well as resources like our Selfcare & Skincare Blog for educational content designed to empower women on their self-care and skincare journeys. You got this momma, let us help you take the first steps!

Published by: Khy Talara

Women’s Empowerment and Self-Care with Dr. Jewel Diamond Taylor

Women's Journal Staff on July 1, 2024

In the heart of Malibu, California, a haven of empowerment and self-care awaits women of color from all walks of life. This sanctuary is not just a retreat; it’s a movement led by the inspiring and resilient Dr. Jewel Diamond Taylor, President and Founder of her eponymous brand. With over 35 years of experience in speaking and producing retreats, Dr. Taylor has dedicated her life to creating spaces where women can fellowship, release stress, embrace their worth, develop their faith, and cultivate their peace.

The Inspiration Behind the Journey

Dr. Taylor’s journey into the realm of empowerment and self-care began with a profound realization: women need safe spaces. These spaces allow them to escape the pressures of everyday life, heal from their struggles, and find strength in community. Inspired by the pressing need for such environments, Dr. Taylor embarked on a mission to reach women who are ready to come out of isolation, grief, depression, and burnout from their career and family obligations. Her retreats offer not just respite, but a transformative experience that equips women with the tools to navigate life’s challenges.

Overcoming Challenges and Building Resilience

Throughout her career, Dr. Taylor has faced significant challenges. One of the most poignant was reaching women who were trapped in a cycle of isolation and despair. Her approach to overcoming these obstacles has been rooted in relatability and unapologetic transparency. By sharing her own struggles and triumphs, she has created a connection with her audience that is both deep and impactful. Dr. Taylor’s unique perspective, drawn from over three decades of international speaking engagements, addresses the real issues women face, offering practical solutions and unwavering support.

Career Highlights and Notable Accomplishments

Dr. Taylor’s illustrious career is marked by numerous accolades and accomplishments. She traveled for 12 years as a speaker and mistress of ceremonies for the African American Women on Tour, inspiring countless women along the way. Her contributions as an associate producer for a documentary filmed in Norway earned her an Emmy Award from the Northwest Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. These milestones are a testament to her dedication and influence in the realm of women’s empowerment.

Personal Stories of Resilience

Dr. Taylor’s life has been touched by profound loss, yet she has emerged stronger, using her experiences to uplift others. Her mother succumbed to breast cancer, and her 38-year-old son lost his battle with cancer, complications from sickle cell anemia. These personal tragedies have shaped her into a beacon of resilience, offering tried and true coping skills, faith, and life lessons to those she mentors. Her message is clear: “Don’t let the hard days win.”

Looking to the Future

With a vision set on major talk shows and larger conferences nationwide and in Africa, Dr. Taylor’s aspirations are boundless. She dreams of elucidating the journey of women rising above life’s challenges on grand stages, reaching wider audiences, and making a global impact. Her retreats, especially the annual reJEWELvenating and self-care reTREAT in Malibu, are a cornerstone of her efforts to empower women. This year marks the 10th anniversary of these transformative gatherings, a testament to their enduring value and impact.

Dr. Jewel Diamond Taylor Women's Empowerment and Self-Care

Photo Courtesy: Jewel Diamond Taylor

Embracing the Message: “Exhale”

The central theme of Dr. Taylor’s work is encapsulated in a single word: “Exhale.” This simple yet powerful concept urges women to release their burdens, embrace self-care, and find strength within themselves. Her branding statements—”I was born for this,” “The main thing is to KEEP the main thing…the MAIN THING,” “Stay in the Light,” and “Don’t let the hard days win”—resonate deeply with her audience, offering guidance and inspiration.

Increasing Brand Awareness and Generating Leads

The primary goal of this article is to increase brand awareness, generate leads, and boost attendance at Dr. Taylor’s programs. By sharing her story and highlighting the impact of her retreats, we aim to draw attention to the invaluable resources she offers. Her target audience—women of color nationwide, many of whom are retired or entrepreneurs—will find solace and empowerment in her message.

Connecting Through Social Media

Dr. Taylor’s influence extends beyond her retreats, with a strong presence on social media. Connect with her on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram to stay updated on her latest initiatives and inspirational messages.

In a world where women often bear the weight of career, family, and societal expectations, Dr. Jewel Diamond Taylor offers a sanctuary of empowerment and self-care. Her retreats provide more than just a getaway; they are a call to embrace one’s worth, develop faith, and find peace. As she continues to inspire and uplift women worldwide, Dr. Taylor’s message remains clear: “Exhale—don’t let the hard days win.”

To learn more about Jewel and the Women on the Grow Annual reTREAT in Malibu: click here http://linktr.ee/JewelDiamondTaylor

Published by: Martin De Juan

How to Plan Your Funeral Before You Pass Away

Women's Journal Staff on July 1, 2024

By: Viraj Shah

Financial estate planning is a chance to manage the taxes your heirs might face, determine who your heirs are, and divide up your assets and wealth among them. However, you should also consider planning your funeral. Doing so minimizes the burden your loved ones will face, lets you decide how things will be handled, and is an opportunity to pay for it in advance.

Choose a Funeral Home

Your first decision should be choosing a funeral home. Once a mortuary or funeral home takes custody of your remains, there will likely be a sizeable transfer fee to switch to another business or location. Avoid this by picking a place in advance that fits your needs and budget.

Do You Want Cremation, Burial, or Both?

One of the significant decisions you’ll make in funeral planning is what happens to your body after you pass away. You might think your options are cremation or burial, but you can do both. Cremated remains can be buried if not kept in an urn or scattered in a place you cherished or loved in life.

Consider Donating Your Body

If you want your body or any parts of it to be donated after your death, you need to establish that clearly in your funeral planning. Registering as an organ donor can save multiple lives and improve many more lives. Also, donating your body to science helps train tomorrow’s doctors and advance medical research.

Make It Your Kind of Funeral

It’s not easy to plan ahead for your death, but you might have specific ideas about how your family and friends gather to mourn you. Funerals are traditional events involving cultural and religious rituals, but a celebration of life is a more modern event that might include people sharing their happiest memories of you.

Decide on an Urn or Casket

Picking a casket or urn can be a source of contention between you and your survivors. You might want something basic and affordable to preserve more of your estate to pass on to heirs, but your loved ones could want something nice to be respectful. Making arrangements in advance can avoid this disagreement.

Purchase a Burial Plot

Purchasing prepaid cemetery plots close to other family members seems simple and convenient, but fraud is rampant. Do your due diligence to get this right, and consider your wishes regarding a potential grave marker.

Write Things Down

Think about writing your obituary to be published in the community. Create and file the legal documents necessary to clearly state your final wishes. Ensure your loved ones know what they are and where to find the required files.

Budget Everything

Prepaid options and planning help you estimate and afford burial and cremation costs. See what your insurance will cover, and create a budget.

Do It as Act of Love

It might feel morbid to plan your funeral, but it’s a tremendous act of kindness to your surviving family. They won’t have to decide or interpret your final wishes during a time of mourning when you already made arrangements in advance.

Published By: Aize Perez