The Day After: Protecting Our Peace and Power

Today, the world feels a little heavier for many of us. As results rolled in, each state seemed to carry not just numbers but the weight of hopes, fears, and generations of battles for women’s rights, human rights, and civil rights. We woke up this morning to the reality that the rights we thought were woven into the fabric of our lives are once again on fragile ground. For many, especially Black women and girls, who already feel the tug-of-war of justice and progress on their shoulders, this election result doesn’t just feel like a political moment—it feels like a direct hit to our peace, our place, and our future.

The world will have its demands, pulling us to show up, speak out, and stay vigilant. But today, I want to remind you of something equally important: You have every right to focus on protecting your mental and emotional peace, especially in times like these. If you’re feeling hurt, fearful, or just utterly exhausted, those feelings are valid. And it’s okay to pause, take stock, and choose self-preservation as a form of resistance.

When we talk about protecting our peace, it can feel selfish, especially when others are calling for action and voices. But here’s the truth—there’s no shame in being self-serving right now. You’re allowed to place boundaries around your heart, your time, and your energy. This is about refueling so that when you're ready to step back in, you’re stepping in with strength, clarity, and purpose.

Here are some small ways to hold space for yourself in the days ahead:

1. Limit What You Absorb: The news, social media, conversations with friends and family—it's a lot. Take time to disconnect, even if it's just for a few hours, and give yourself permission to tune out what you need to. Choose your own peace over pressure.

2. Find Joy in Routine: There’s power in our everyday routines. Pour your coffee, do your skincare, take a long shower. These moments may feel small, but they are chances to ground ourselves. Use these routines to remind yourself of the beauty you can create and control, even in uncertain times.

3. Breathe & Move: Whether it's a long walk, a short stretch, or a few deep breaths, give your body space to process what your mind is holding. Movement has a way of clearing out some of that weight. Let yourself move at your own pace.

4. Hold Each Other: If you can, reach out to other Black women who are feeling this too. Share your thoughts, but also let yourself laugh and lean on each other. There’s power in our collective strength and tenderness.

5. Focus on Nourishment: Make time for nourishing food and beauty rituals. Maybe try something new with your hair or give yourself a facial. These rituals aren’t just about looking good—they’re about reminding yourself that you deserve care, comfort, and joy.

We are here because of the resilience of those who came before us. And we’re still here, carrying forward the love, compassion, and courage of Black women and women everywhere who have always known how to survive and thrive.

Remember, self-compassion isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity. You’re allowed to sit with your feelings, whatever they may be. Cry, laugh, rest, and do whatever you need to feel whole again. This isn’t the end, even if it feels that way right now. We’re here together, and there’s power in that.

Hold yourself close. You deserve it.

In Love,

Yaminah

Yaminah Childress, J.D.

CEO Yany Beauty, Founder Contractr AI, Mindfulness Business Consultant IntegralStart Consulting