Between mid-March and early June, we kept our eyes and ears glued to the news waiting on the bat signal permitting us to go outside and play again. We even listened to our governors' guidelines for three different reopening phases trying to figure out how soon we can schedule a happy hour with our girls or a wax, nail, and hair appointment at our favorite spas and salons.
But naturally, we also second-guessed these initial dates that our governors set because the 'Rona hadn't disappeared, it was way too soon especially when the numbers were still rising and our common sense warned us it's probably best to stay in our cribs.
None of that has changed yet. And when I really think about it, 'the Rona has every intent to take over our hot girl summer and with an anticipated second wave in the fall, are we destined to stay inside until this time 2021?
To be honest, I can't quarantine that long. I have moves to make and my introversion won't allow me to remain sane in a group setting for such an extended period. In no way am I dismissing anyone's circumstances or the seriousness of this virus, though. To date, we've lost over 132K of our fellow neighbors right here in the U.S and this virus disproportionately affects us. We're three times as likely to become infected and twice as likely to succumb to the virus. So, this isn't something I take lightly.
Nevertheless people are slowly returning to their homes if they've been quarantined with others as well as venturing out to regain some semblance of a "normal" life. Besides, I've seen the fresh box braids and manicures on my newsfeed and I'm like, sis, you didn't do that yourself.
I've also seen a video clip of our people, masks off like the Future song, frolicking in a freakin' pool inside of an Atlanta nightclub. This was before Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms announced that she has tested positive for coronavirus.
Yet, instead of stressing, "Stay home!" to the party-goers with a period and the added "T" when people are steadily going out anyway, I'm taking a different approach to highlight the gravity of COVID-19.
Let's take a look at various non-essential spaces, examine how sanitary or risky they are right now and explore alternative options and precautions to maintain our health.
Disclaimer: This article is not a directive to be reckless and engage in high-risk behavior during a pandemic. Instead, it is a comprehensive breakdown of how to navigate spaces outside of your home and minimize your chances of exposure while doing so. None of these methods are 100% effective at avoiding coronavirus. Return to your new "normal" at your discretion.
Hair and Nail Salons
Unfortunately, the risk for a COVID-19 infection remains high at salons and barbershops regardless of any safety precautions because clients and employees can't realistically maintain a distance of 6 feet between one another. And if you're the one providing the service, you face an even greater risk because of the number of clients entering the shop daily. What's even more disturbing is that one person who enters the shop with COVID-19 symptoms can easily expose at least 100 clientele depending on how busy the establishment is, which is what happened at a St. Louis salon.
Safety tip: If you do go to the salon, stick with services that don't require you to remove your mask. In other words, that lip wax would have to wait. And only request one or two "emergency" services, not the full works, so you can shorten your time at the establishment. Check to be sure stylists are disinfecting chairs including headrests between clients and wearing single-use gloves.
Also, while it may be normal for you to chat with your stylist, it's suggested you refrain from your usual conversations. And don't grab a magazine to pass the time. In fact, they should already be removed from the waiting area and work stations.
You may also want to check to see if your fave shop offers extended hours to minimize the number of clients who are in the space at one time or a private room to accommodate clients who seek extra precautions.
And if you go to the nail shop, don't expect to test any colors. Better yet, take your own polish or get you some Kiss Luxe press-ons from Target or CVS.
Restaurants and Bars
Full disclosure: My cousin and I ate in a restaurant during lunchtime in mid-June. There was a maximum number of patrons who could dine at once and no one was seated behind us or next to us. Additionally, all condiments like ketchup bottles and salt and pepper shakers were removed from the tables and our menu was disposable. And if I remember correctly, so was our silverware.
While the sign on the door mandated that all patrons wear masks, not everyone who entered the establishment had one on. Granted, you can't eat and drink with your mask on but this is why restaurants and bars (and clubs, too!) will continue to be high-risk.
Safety tip: Outdoor or patio seating is a tad bit safer than inside dining, provided the seating isn't along a sidewalk where potentially unmasked people are constantly walking by. If your state allows you to dine-in, choose large, well-ventilated restaurants that can abide by the 6-feet social distancing rules as well as operate with fewer staff (with masks!) and patrons. And if you enter a restaurant and there's a full-on buffet, exit immediately.
It's also safer to dine out with those you've quarantined with rather than meet up with friends you haven't seen in the past four months. And, of course, there's definitely the carryout option or no-contact delivery where the driver leaves your food (protected) at your front door.
Gyms And Spas
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Gyms are danger zones. They can be tricky because the equipment is practically side-by-side and then there's moisture from sweat. Furthermore, how plausible is it that the gym staff can sanitize every bit of equipment between each use? Spas are also iffy with skin-to-skin contact. And while I'm yearning to get back in the yoga studio, I realize it's too tight and that community equipment like the yoga blocks are also hard to clean.
Safety tip: One word: towels. Plural. And wipes. Next, check to be sure that the gym has restricted access to every other machine and possibly placed barriers around equipment. Some gyms may even require members to reserve a block of time to use the gym and staff will clean in between blocks.
Also ask about the facility's updated policies regarding the usage of locker rooms. And although it's not the same as being on-site, there's also an option to workout virtually. Or outside.
If you book an appointment for a massage, ask the spa about their laundry policy for linens, towels, and other washable items. Also, ensure that your massage therapist follows hand-washing and hygiene protocols like definitely wearing a mask and maybe some clean gloves.
Airports, Airplanes, Hotels, and Airbnbs
Airports and airplanes are high-traffic areas. No pun intended. But apparently they're not as high-risk as gyms, salons, restaurants, and churches. Although now I can't get the thought out of my head that, as one of my friends recently pointed out, everyone stands up and crowds one another once the plane lands.
Safety tip: Before you book your flight, check travel advisories with both your airline and your destination. The last thing you want to do is arrive in another state and find out you need to self-quarantine for 14 days. Also, ensure that the middle seats on your airline are empty and find out for how long. (For example: Southwest isn't opening the middle seat until after September 30th.)
You're currently allowed to carry on 12 ounces of hand sanitizer so take advantage of it. Bring your wipes and wipe down the seats, trays, and armrests, although the airlines are supposed to disinfect between every landing and takeoff. And don't look for magazines, pillows, and blankets.
When you check-in to your hotel, find some cleaning supplies and disinfect high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, remotes, and faucet handles. And if you opt for an Airbnb, reserve the entire property or ask how many people will be in and out of the residence during your stay.
Churches
While places of worship are traditionally safe spaces, they are considered among the unsafest when it comes to COVID transmission. Right now, I'm fine with Bedside Baptist. In fact, I just "attended" church online with viewers of the 2020 Virtual Essence Fest. I still got the word and some praise and worship with Tamela Mann. Hallalu! (In my Tamar Braxton voice.)
Safety tip: Some churches are hosting parking lot services where everything takes place outside and parishioners can remain in their cars. But if you're attending service inside of a church, check to see if there's a limit on the size of the congregation. Maybe the church will add services and clean in between. But still avoid touching hymnals and the collection plate. Use apps on your phone to read scriptures and tithe or use a stationary collection box.
As the weeks progress, guidelines may change and perhaps our governors will simply shut down establishments all over again. While that might be the downfall of many small businesses, it'll be a windfall for us who are doing way too much, way too fast.
However, if and when we do go outside, I just need us to remain well-informed and exercise extreme caution. Always wear your masks, scrub your hands and maintain those six feet like our lives literally depend on it because, well, they really do.
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2023 was my year, and it was my turn. I had just completed an 8-month holistic detox. The glow-up was real and well-deserved. The way I have poured into myself is unmatched. Let me tell you, self-love is a love you have never known. After a five-year healing journey, I finally felt like myself again, and I was ready to play. My heart was open, my mind was clear, and my body hella transformed. I had told all my friends that I was ready to explore dating again, and at the height of summer, I did exactly just that.
This time I decided I wanted to take my time. I wanted to date the “right way” or the “healthy way.” You know, keep your options open, ask the right questions, believe actions and not words, observe patterns and pay attention to red, yellow, and green flags. I was never the dating app type of girl. I sincerely miss everything about human connection and dating from 2000 to 2012. Can we please bring all of that back into 2024? I prefer to feel a man’s energy and presence in real-time. Nonetheless, I still chose to dabble with a few dating apps. I was all the way outside and dating for practice.
Unfortunately, with today’s dating culture, social climate, and how some of these men move and/or behave, these dates were a dead end. Not one guy made it to my roster. What these men were was benched this season – not one of them could be my first-round select draft pick. It didn't seem like anyone I met was interested in a serious relationship. And it’s completely fine. Miss me with the ghosting, lack of effort, inconsistency, and poor communication. I continued to just do me because what is for me will not miss me.
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The universe must have heard me talking because I had specifically told my closest girlfriends that I wanted to meet someone who lived in the vicinity, no more than twenty minutes away, and no more long distance. And I did meet him (it’s crazy how I manifest exactly what I want). As we started to get to know each other, I liked his energy and effort. I liked the direction it seemed to be going to the point my girlfriends had to tell me not to run from him. Because every part of me wanted to run from something that seemed normal.
I liked what he was coming with until I became uncomfortable with my own feelings, and I didn’t know how to communicate them to him.
With that said, I knew if I truly wanted to experience the truest of loves, a reciprocal, requited love, and be in a healthy relationship this story had to come to a pause. What I didn’t know was that he was going to show me things I didn’t know I needed to work on. I didn’t know he inadvertently was going to help me continue to heal parts of me that were hidden.
As someone who has learned to self-heal, I am no longer the type that runs from herself. I am here for the growth.
The truth is I am emotionally detached from myself, and I am not actively dating at the moment. I am the one that has to work on herself. My reiki healer called it, too – she told me this year would not be a year for a relationship, but a year of continuous growth. And now I see why. After all the healing work I have done thus far – I am an unemotional mess. How?
At my big age of 39, I struggle to communicate my wants and needs.
I still struggle to communicate and process uncomfortable feelings. I would rather give myself anxiety, act nonchalantly, emotionally react, and choose non-communication when I am bothered with someone than address the issue (I will later explain why). I have been ignoring my feelings for so long it has become a habit, a defense mechanism, and more so a trauma response.
If you are someone like me who grew up in a household that didn’t discuss feelings, your emotional needs were unmet, and you don’t feel safe to share your feelings – emotional detachment is quite common.
Oftentimes, we always talk about men being emotionally unavailable, but what if it’s a woman who is emotionally unavailable or emotionally detached? How does she navigate herself, dating, or being in a relationship? As I navigate my emotions this season, let’s explore what it means to be emotionally detached, the signs of detachment, and how to reconnect with yourself emotionally.
Emotional Unavailability vs. Emotional Detachment
When we look at the terminology emotional unavailability and emotional detachment, one might argue that the two terms are interchangeable and have the same meaning. One could also argue that both terms mean that some people are not in tune with their emotions or lack the emotional capacity to be responsive to someone else’s emotions. Fair enough. However, there is a big difference. The definition of emotional unavailability is described as people who have difficulty with sharing their emotions and being receptive to the emotions of those around them.
According to Verywell Mind, signs of emotional unavailability can look like being distant or cold, lack of closeness, and emotional intimacy in relationships, inability to understand and relate to others’ feelings, defensiveness when asked to change or let others in, tendency to shut down or avoid topics that require emotional openness, or withdrawal from people or situations that provoke emotional reactions.
GIF by Kim's ConvenienceGiphyWhereas emotional detachment is defined as the inability to or willingness to connect with others on an emotional level. Furthermore, Psychology Today states emotional detachment can also mean that people do not engage with their feelings. Exhibit A – me. Emotional detachment has various causes – past neglect, childhood or adult trauma, PTSD, depression, personality disorder, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, or, in some cases, medication (i.e. antidepressants). It is important to note emotional detachment is a complex issue. For someone like me, it’s a coping mechanism.
It is easier for me to ignore uncomfortable feelings to protect myself from stress or getting hurt. Hence, my nonchalant demeanor. It is also true for some people it is a reaction to trauma, abuse, and unprocessed emotions. Exhibit B – me. As it is difficult for me to open up about my feelings at the moment. On the contrary – emotional detachment can be helpful in navigating some situations like listening to people’s opinions and gossip.
Unfortunately, emotional detachment is not a behavior that can be turned on and off at will. Please note that emotional detachment is NOT a mental health diagnosis but can be a symptom of a mental health condition such as an attachment disorder. And if you know anything about attachment theory, it is related to the relationship we develop in our childhood with our primary caregivers.
Signs You're Emotionally Detached
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According to Psychology Today and Verywell Mind, general signs of emotional detachment can look like difficulty showing empathy to others, sharing emotions, committing to a relationship, feeling numb, poor listening skills, lack of self-esteem, preferring to be alone, struggling to feel positive emotions, inability to identify emotions, lack of physical, verbal, or sexual contact and losing touch with people or maintaining connections.
In a romantic relationship, emotional detachment shows up as you or your partner not being available for connection, poor communication, or reduced affection.
For me, my experience with emotional detachment is collective. I am an empath to my core. I don’t have a problem relating to other’s feelings or circumstances. I don’t have commitment issues, nor do I have an issue connecting with others or maintaining those connections. I struggle with sharing emotions, at least the negative ones.
Due to the emotional abuse from my childhood and a toxic relationship, I learned sharing emotions just wasn't the safe thing to do. As a survivor of trauma, I learned to suppress feeling negative emotions in general as a form of protection.
How To Reconnect To Your Emotions When You're Emotionally Unavailable
Serious Kid Cudi GIF by Apple MusicGiphyExploring my emotional side in-depth started late last year simply by noticing my reaction to something that he did. I didn’t know how to properly communicate to him how I was feeling or what he did bothered me in the moment. So, I swallowed my feelings and said absolutely nothing. I intentionally chose to avoid the issue. I chose to rationalize the situation instead of acknowledging that my feelings at the time were valid. I chose to act like everything was all good because it was all good.
“It wasn’t that deep to begin with” is what I told myself. And this is where the problem lies.
The saying is true, “What happens in your childhood shows up in your adult relationships.” I came to realize that because I was not able to express my feelings as a child, I struggled to process them. I either hold back my feelings, take a long time to say how I feel, or don’t say anything at all. This is because I fear people will walk away from me like my mother did if I share what I truly feel. I fear my feelings won’t be validated, or they will be rejected.
With that said, I was completely unaware that I was emotionally detached from myself until recently. So, here we are with this article. It all started by reading Instagram’s @theholisticpsychologist, Dr. Nicole LePera’s newest book How to Be the Love You Seek: Break Cycles, Find Peace, and Heal Your Relationships, which was released on November 28, 2023. As I read through the first chapter, I became triggered.
How Dr. LePera describes her childhood with her parents and experiences with her romantic partners somewhat mirrored my experiences with my own parents and relationships. As Dr. LaPera stated in her book, I have no issue showing up for others or meeting their needs and wants. But when it comes to expressing my own needs and wants – I cannot or I don’t. This is mainly due to my hyper-independence.
At an early age, I learned to show up for myself because the people I trusted to show up for me failed. Given my home environment, I had internalized it is not safe to talk about feelings. I never knew my emotional responses and behavior were abnormal. But because I am willing to continue to do my inner work, I know that I can reconnect to my emotions, and undo four decades of repressed emotions.
If you are someone like me who struggles with emotional connection with yourself and others, here is how you go about it:
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1. Know Your Attachment Style
For me, the first step was to understand my attachment style. I asked my therapist if she could help me identify my attachment style to understand my triggers. She recommended The Attachment Theory Workbook by Annie Chen, LMFT. My therapist administered the associated online quiz – Attachment Quiz. If you haven’t figured out my attachment style yet by reading this article, I have an anxious attachment style.
This means I don’t do well with inconsistent behavior, especially from men (but I’m the type that holds men to standards too). People with an anxious attachment style have a need to feel close to their partner. It may come across as “clingy” or “needy.” However, this same need is often driven by fear of abandonment, mistrust, and low self-esteem. I would say knowing your attachment style is helpful because you can work towards having a secure attachment style (with practice) in your relationships – familial, business, work, platonic, or romantic.
2. Become Self-Aware
Most people who are not in the practice of self-care or self-healing are unaware of their triggers, patterns, and behaviors. We are so caught up in the daily minutiae of life that we forget to pay attention to the most important part of our days — ourselves. As Dr. LePera says, make it a conscious habit to pause throughout your day to check in with yourself. Ask yourself:
- How does my body feel?
- What am I doing right now?
- Am I present?
- Am I distracted and lost with other thoughts?
- What do I think or feel when I recall a specific experience with someone?
- What do I think or worry about?
- What would happen if I shared my authentic thoughts, perspective, feelings right now?”
This is what Dr. LePera refers to as exploring your embodied self or fulfilling your authentic needs in chapter two of her book. Consistent mindfulness and self-awareness are key to self-discovery and in any healing journey. Learning to focus on the present moment also includes paying attention to our emotional response to an event or how we think about emotions in general.
3. Practice Vulnerability
The idea of vulnerability is a tough one for me and so many other women for countless reasons. Whether it be toxic family, friendships, relationships, or trauma – trusting others with your thoughts and feelings is not easy. As much as I am open and transparent, I am not as vulnerable. And I believe there is so much power in the duality to be both. To trust someone, let alone a man with your authentic self is a delicate matter.
But it is emotional vulnerability that allows us humans to build authentic connections, create stronger relationships, and break down emotional walls. Emotional vulnerability is not something to be rushed – it takes time and practice from you and the people you choose to have in your life. Medical News Today suggests that we can learn to be vulnerable by opening up more to our closest friends, building our ability to become more trusting, and developing skills to regulate our emotions.
4. Seek Therapy
I have been in therapy for six years and counting. I would consider therapy one of my safe spaces. I am one of those individuals who recommend therapy to everyone as it has given me the tools and resources I need to navigate my life challenges. By choosing to get help, I was able to put my PTSD and depression in remission for four years now. I have also learned how to manage my anxiety.
I am fully aware that in this season of my life requires me to do the work to unlock new levels of self. And any time where I have consciously chosen growth – the universe or life has not failed me. I was able to heal my body, my heart, and my spirit. Now, it’s time to heal my inner child, this hurt little girl who lives in me.
I will say choosing a therapist is similar to dating; you might go through a few potentials until you find a therapist you connect with. Actually, one of my lifelong friends said to me the other day, “Your relationship with your therapist is one of the most important relationships in your life.” I needed her to say that, and I needed to hear it because it’s true. You are essentially trusting a licensed stranger to help you navigate your life on so many levels.
Be picky and ask the questions. Cut the cord at the first red flag given. Again, let me reiterate that emotional detachment is not a mental health diagnosis. It can be treated with the help of a therapist. Emotional detachment only becomes a problem when it starts to interfere with your daily life. Pay attention to changes in your daily behavior and make decisions to cope accordingly.
I am genuinely excited about reconnecting with my emotions. I want to feel all the feels – good, bad, and indifferent. I want to cry all the tears – especially the sad ones. I want to process and release negative emotions. I want to say how I feel in the moment with no fear.
If you are that girl who struggles with emotional connection or thinks you're emotionally detached, I hope that you become willing to face your inner child and show up for her. Don’t run – she has been waiting for you.
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