

2025 has already begun seeing unimaginable tragedies and challenges for many. While others are constantly inundated with these calamities through social media.
Whether you have been affected directly or indirectly by just simply scrolling on social media, both can have a negative impact on your mental health.
That’s why it’s important to have daily wellness practices that will keep you connected to your center. It can be easy to allow negative images and conversations to influence your mood and taint who you are.
Here are a few wellness practices to turn to during this time and to ultimately make a part of your daily routine.
Spend Time In Nature
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One of the best ways to get grounded is to spend time in nature. This could mean going for a walk at your local trail, hiking, or sitting by a body of water. If you’re really about that life, taking off your shoes and putting your bare feet on the ground is also super healing. I know it’s winter, so spending time outdoors may be a no-go at this time, but be sure to take advantage of this practice when it warms up outside.
Breathwork
Something as simple as taking deep breaths can improve your mental and emotional health. But there are different types of breathwork. You have techniques that calm you and techniques that energize you. If you want to try this practice, you can connect with a breathwork practitioner or find videos on YouTube. I like to watch Breathe with Sandy’s videos. Check it out above.
Spend Time With Loved Ones
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Sometimes, all you need is to be surrounded by love. Spending time with friends and family can be healing due to shared laughter and the supportive energy you receive by being in their presence. This may involve going out for coffee, dinner, or just kicking back in the crib.
Journal
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I can’t end this list without mentioning journaling. This practice allows you to get out your feelings in a healthy way. Sometimes, just writing down your thoughts can instantly boost your mood and bring clarity to situations.
I normally like to journal in the mornings, but you can journal any time of the day, especially if you’re going through something at the moment.
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London Alexaundria is the contributing editor for xoNecole. She is an alum of Clark Atlanta University, where she majored in Mass Media Arts and has worked in journalism for over ten years. You can follow her on Instagram and TikTok @theselfcarewriter
'He Said, She Said': Love Stories Put To The Test At A Weekend For Love
At the A Weekend For Love retreat, we sat down with four couples to explore their love stories in a playful but revealing way with #HeSaidSheSaid. From first encounters to life-changing moments, we tested their memories to see if their versions of events aligned—because, as they say, every story has three sides: his, hers, and the truth.
Do these couples remember their love stories the same way? Press play to find out.
Episode 1: Indira & Desmond – Love Across the Miles
They say distance makes the heart grow fonder, but for Indira & Desmond, love made it stronger. Every mile apart deepened their bond, reinforcing the unshakable foundation of their relationship. From their first "I love you" to the moment they knew they had found home in each other, their journey is a beautiful testament to the endurance of true love.
Episode 2: Jay & Tia – A Love Story Straight Out of a Rom-Com
If Hollywood is looking for its next Black love story, they need to take notes from Jay & Tia. Their journey—from an awkward first date to navigating careers, parenthood, and personal growth—proves that love is not just about romance but also resilience. Their story is full of laughter, challenges, and, most importantly, a love that stands the test of time.
Episode 3: Larencia & Mykel – Through the Highs and Lows
A date night with police helicopters overhead? Now that’s a story! Larencia & Mykel have faced unexpected surprises, major life changes, and 14 years of choosing each other every single day. But after all this time, do they actually remember things the same way? Their episode is sure to bring some eye-opening revelations and a lot of laughs.
Episode 4: Soy & Osei – A Love Aligned in Purpose
From a chance meeting at the front door to 15 years of unwavering love, faith, and growth, Soy & Osei prove that when two souls are aligned in love and purpose, nothing can shake their foundation. Their journey is a powerful reminder that true love is built on mutual support, shared values, and a deep connection that only strengthens with time.
Each of these couples has a unique and inspiring story to tell, but do their memories match up? Watch #HeSaidSheSaid to find out!
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xoNecole Staff's Favorite Black-Owned Beauty & Skin Care Products
Black History Month is still in full effect and while we celebrate our Black brothas and sistas year round, there's nothing wrong with showing some extra love to the culture this month. From fashion to tech, we are the movers and shakers and the innovators, influencing many industries.
Although we don't always get the credit, we at xoNecole continue to use our platform to celebrate underrepresented individuals. For this month, xoNecole staff is highlighting our favorite Black-owned beauty & skincare products. See the list below.
Sheriden Garrett, Managing Editor
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Skincare Favorite:
Hanahana Beauty's Amber Vanilla Shea Body Butter- I always think of "Shea Butter Baby" whenever I apply this to my skin. The formula is so luxurious, has the perfect amount of thickness, and the scent makes me feel like a snack in all the best ways.
London Alexaundria, Contributing Editor
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Beauty Favorite:
Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Hot Chocolit- It's my go-to lip gloss. I especially like to pair it with a lip liner for a sultry, evening look.
Skincare Favorites:
Buttah Vitamin C Serum- I've used a lot of vitamin C serums, but I love how this one feels on my skin and it helps clear dark spots for a healthy glow.
Dreka Jardin Facial Mist- I'm obsessed with the rosewater scent and it leaves my skin feeling refreshed.
Urban Hydration Bright & Balanced Aloe Vera Face & Body Soap-I love the mild scent and the clean, tingling feeling it leaves my skin after using it.
Kayla Walker, Talent/ Influencer Consultant
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Beauty Favorites:
Fenty hella thick mascara
Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb
Cay Skin Lip Balm
Skincare Favorites:
Fenty Skin Body Cream
Topicals Slick Salve
Chantal Gainous, Client Services & Campaign Manager
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Beauty Favorites:
Danessa Myricks Beauty - Her shadows are so pigmented and colorful! An easy way to pump up a makeup look
Juvia's Place - Best affordable makeup in the game for darker skin tones. Her Culture palettes are unmatched.
Skincare Favorites:
Range Beauty - recently dropped in Sephora (Alicia, CEO was one of our 2024 ItGirls) and is approved by the National Eczema Association. Clean & gentle on skin!
Topicals - haven't used a Topicals product that hasn't significantly improved my skin! And it just feels like while it's calming your skin, its calming your spirit lol! Definitely want to try their new Clearly Clarifying products soon.
Rosen Skin Care - started me on the best skin care journey I could ask for. Simple routines and great for teenagers and girlies who want to stick to natural-based remedies
Bianca Garwood, Senior Social Media Manager
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Beauty Favorite: Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder
Feature image by Delmaine Donson/ Getty Images