We all want to be a safe place for others—a go-to person, a source of strength. But how can we do that if we’re running on empty? The truth is, self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s the foundation for everything.
Yet, it can be a challenge for many Black and brown women to find self-care practices that genuinely rejuvenate their mind, body, and soul.
That’s why I invited Rikki McCoy, a therapist and yoga practitioner, to share her journey and practical wisdom on how to build a life where you’re not just getting by, but truly thriving.
Shownotes
Meet Rikki McCoy
- Rikki McCoy is a dedicated therapist, yoga practitioner, and founder whose holistic approach to well-being blends traditional faith-based therapies with somatic healing, energy work, and honest, culturally affirming conversations.
- With over a decade of experience in self-care, Rikki helps women navigate the complexities of work, caregiving, and life transitions.
- Her work is rooted in trauma-informed care, teaching clients to self-soothe, break cultural patterns, and prioritize rest without guilt.
Redefining Self-Care
- Rikki stresses that self-care isn’t optional—it’s essential to being able to show up fully in all areas of life. Self-care plans should be highly personalized, taking into account individual needs and cultural backgrounds.
- She walks us through:
- Physical Self-Care: Hydration, sleep routines, and managing stress symptoms in the body.
- Emotional Self-Care: Processing emotions through journaling, therapy, and healthy self-expression.
- Psychological Self-Care: Time management, setting realistic expectations, and making space for rest.
- Spiritual Self-Care: Practices range from prayer and meditation to yoga, crystal therapy, and connection with nature.
- Professional Self-Care: Taking PTO, delegating, and releasing the guilt of not constantly “doing.”
Cultural Considerations for Women of Color
- Rikki highlights how generational patterns shape our perceptions of strength and rest, especially within communities of color.
- She shares strategies for breaking cultural norms, such as always being “on,” not asking for help, and not prioritizing our own needs.
Integrating Ancestral Practices
- There’s a powerful return to traditional healing modalities that our ancestors used: yoga, music therapy, storytelling circles, and herbal remedies.
- Rikki encourages embracing these sacred practices as part of reclaiming wellness.
Navigating Life Transitions & Building Confidence
- Big changes often trigger fears of starting over, shame, and guilt—especially for women of color expected to maintain traditions.
- Rikki offers guidance on moving through transitions with self-compassion, learning to trust intuition, and building the confidence to live authentically, not just for others but for yourself.
Setting Boundaries & Dealing with Pushback
- Rikki shares personal stories about setting boundaries with family, especially around food and lifestyle choices.
- She emphasizes “standing on business” when it comes to self-care, even when it means facing misunderstanding or disapproval.
Healing Your Inner Child
- Rikki encourages listeners to rediscover joy by revisiting what they loved as children, romanticizing their lives, and focusing on self-love as the foundation for everything else.
“Taking care of yourself and prioritizing rest is a necessity. Because if we’re not taking care of ourselves, how can we show up in the world and all the different roles that we play? There’s no way you can really show up as your full self if you’re not taking the time to take care of your mind and body.” – Rikki McCoy
Book a session with me.
Whether it’s anxiety, depression, trauma, or just not feeling yourself – let’s talk. Go to FortisMentisPsychiatry.com/help to schedule an appointment.
Resources
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