Happy MLK Day! We celebrate the life and works of not just Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., but also Coretta Scott King and the overwhelming number of African American leaders who have paved the way toward freedom each generation!

As we take time to celebrate, I wanted to share some tips on creating a health legacy. Unfortunately, the narrative has been that Black people don’t know how to care for themselves. Within the health industry, professionals such as myself were taught that Black people have diabetes, heart disease, and live in food deserts.

Yet, I have RARELY recalled any colleagues, professors, lecturers, and those in health leadership discussing the impact systemic racism has had on the Black community. I’m talking redlining, restrictive covenants, food apartheid, and denying funding and growth within Black Communities.

If you have never heard of what I’m talking about, I encourage you to watch this:

https://tinyurl.com/ytnjnwyr

And get this book The Color of Law by Richard Rothstein

(you can listen to it for FREE with a new audible subscription)

SO… WHAT CAN YOU DO?

HERE ARE 3 TIPS TO BUILD GENERATIONAL HEALTH!

1. Start with self-care. In the same way that the flight attendant instructs parents to put the oxygen mask on themselves first during an emergency, you must care for yourself first. Why? Because you are the foundation for the next generation. And this is not dependent upon you having biological children. Your EXISTENCE influences the next generation in ways you may not even realize. Some easy tips for self care include:

   • Getting enough sleep

   • Looking into mental health wellness

   • Saying no to people and things that steal away your joy and peace

2. Simplify your nutrition/health goals.

   • Instead of exercising for 2 hours every day for 3 months just go back to your old previous ways, keep it simple. Is there something you can commit to every day for 15 minutes?

   • Instead of throwing out everything you like food-wise, incorporate foods you like with nutritious food. This makes it easier for you to maintain a lifestyle that you can enjoy.

3. Recognize your impact on future generations.

   • What habits are you passing on to the next generation? Do you need help finding better habits to deal with the stressors of life?

   • Read, watch, and listen to stories from generations past so that you don’t have to reinvent the wheel (Here are 2 free resources: Culturally Secure & Healthy Guide, Diversity & Culture Book Recommendations)

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