

As we say goodbye to 2020 and gracefully move into 2021, it's only right we say goodbye to our thought patterns that no longer serve us. I started my healing journey in December of 2018 after a toxic relationship. At the time, my mind was filled with broken thoughts of all men, love, and relationships. This toxic frame of mind eventually carried into my lifestyle and confidence in new relationships.
I decided to adopt a mindful detox practice to heal and attract more positivity into my life. During my detox journey, I eventually discovered the law of attraction. The idea is that our mind is the gateway to our reality. It was that moment your girl became woke! In my experience, when I was comfortable in my toxic thought patterns, I eventually developed a lack mindset. A lack mindset is the idea of living in scarcity. A few examples are: "I can't", "I'll never have", or "I'm not good enough."
I unknowingly manifested more lack into my life rather than abundance.
Since adopting a detox practice for myself, I have noticed a huge difference in my aura, stress levels, relationships, self-esteem, and overall mental health. Detoxing your mind is essential if you want to find love, manifest more opportunities, and change your life, period! Here are 5 ways to detox your mind.
Embrace The Power Of The Pause
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A great way to detoxify the mind is by pausing. Adopting a meditation practice is one way to embrace the power of the pause. There is so much clarity that can be found in silence. Take a moment to be with yourself and your thoughts. You can do this by sitting up straight and closing your eyes. Focus on five to 10 deep breaths inhaling slowly through your nose and exhaling through your mouth. Dedicating as little as five minutes every day can give us awareness of our thought patterns and help us see the beauty in the lessons life is teaching us. It also allows us to put our past experiences at rest and allows us to embrace the present moment.
Give Yourself Permission To Feel
As women of color, we are rarely permitted to feel. We are raised to be strong. To be the foundation of the home. To nurture our families and loved ones before we nurture our hearts. We lend our ears to those who need to be heard, our hearts for those who need to feel love, and our bodies to create more life. Women of color are valid in their feelings. Permit yourself to feel every single emotion. There is beauty in the flow of your tears, pain, and frustration. Allow yourself to feel and have a rebirth.
Journaling
I am a huge fan of journaling. I love writing out my thoughts when I am triggered, having an ordinary day, or am overdue for a good mental detox. To detox is to release our body from any toxicities that no longer serve us. It's important to release the negative words we associate ourselves or situations with. Writing our thoughts down allows us to get it all out without the fear of judgment.
Our journal is a free space for us to be loud, unapologetic, and feel empowered through our words. We need to express exactly how we feel, it's how we become free.
Learn To Identify Your Toxic Thoughts
I'm going to keep it real with you all, this is an ongoing developing skill. When learning to identify your toxic thoughts, you have to work at it every single day and you won't be perfect at it. Learn to catch your negative thoughts in the moment and turn them around. A great example is turning a phrase like "I'll never love again" to "I will accept love into my life again when it is the right time for me." The more you practice this skill, the more likely you are to reprogram your brain and have a better outlook on life situations.
Forgive Yourself
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We all make mistakes. We all have toxic thoughts, have taken it too far or said too much, and have been hard on ourselves as a result. Forgive yourself, as you would forgive anyone you love. To forgive ourselves is also giving our mind permission to be at peace. Give yourself full permission to find self-acceptance and heal from the toxic thought patterns that have crowded your mind. You are human, still developing and growing in your flow. Embrace and love all of the characteristics that have made you into the beautiful divine feminine woman that you are. Detox your mind and be bold, loving, and forgiving towards yourself.
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'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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Destination dupes are the latest travel trend that involves visiting lesser-known, affordable places that offer a similar experience to popular destinations. One of the benefits of traveling to a destination dupe is that travelers get to discover a hidden gem, avoid crowds, and save money in the process.
There are many similar destinations around the world to choose from, so check out our list of the seven top destination dupes below.
Discover Amsterdam In Aruba
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Aruba has a massive Dutch influence, which can be found in its architecture, charming streets, and culture. Couple that with water activities such as snorkeling or scuba diving, and you have a vacation to remember. The Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino is the perfect spot to immerse yourself in all that the island has to offer.
Find Costa Rican Wildlife In Mexico
Sandos Caracol Eco Resort
Costa Rica may be known for its tropical wildlife, but Playa del Carmen offers the same experience with less flight time. The Mexican town is located on the coastline of Riviera Maya and the Sandos Caracol Eco Resort, is a great place to take in the wildlife scenery, like spider monkeys, coatis, howler monkeys, all different kinds of birds, marine wildlife in its riverways and so much more.
Trade In The Greek Islands For This Caribbean Island
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Experience Greece in the Caribbean when you visit South Andros island in the Bahamas. It’s one of the larger islands and has the world’s third-largest barrier reef. However, it’s still relatively less crowded than other vacation hot spots. Check into Caerula Mar Club for a relaxing stay.
Can't Make It To Venice? Discover The "Venice of America"
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Fort Lauderdale is often referred to as “Venice of America” thanks to its 165 miles of beautiful, tropical navigable waterways and riverwalk. The city is also known for its award-winning art museums, small shops, delicious dining, and the beautiful string lights in the streets of Las Olas. Check out Hyatt Centric Las Olas located near galleries and fine dining or W Fort Lauderdale for sweeping views of the Atlantic and Intracoastal.
Explore Spanish Culture Without The Passport
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If you’re looking for a Spanish destination with no passport required, than look no further than Puerto Rico. The beautiful island has a Spanish influence that can be found in the food, architecture and culture. By staying at Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico in Rio Grande, travelers can get a taste of the island’s beauty in their backyard. The expansive resort is set on the famed sandy shores of PR and framed against the backdrop of the El Yunque rainforest.
Uncover The Best Wine Without The High Price
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Who needs Bordeaux, France when California wine country is a short flight away? Discover Napa Valley and all it has to offer, including the best vino and picturesque views of sprawling vineyards and rolling hills. The Meritage Resort & Spa is a premier vineyard property that offers world-class luxury with exceptional hospitality. Guests can choose from on-site tasting rooms, elevated dining options, a locally sourced artisanal market, relaxing spa and more.
Take In Coastal Views Without The Crowds
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If you want Amalfi Coast without the crowds, then explore Turkey’s Datça Peninsula (aka the Turkish Riviera). Travelers will be surrounded by stunning views of volcanic mountain ranges, neighboring Greek islands, and crystal-clear waters. D Maris Bay is a luxurious, secluded resort with five private beaches, several indoor and outdoor pools, an array of water excursions, and world-renowned dining.
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