May is Mental Health Awareness month and today La hermana mayor, Cory, shares how her unexpected journey to motherhood made her prioritize her wellbeing and self-care. Mental Health Awareness month is a national observance that started in 1949. During this month, various initiatives take place to promote understanding, reduce stigma, and encourage conversations about mental health. Growing up in a Latino household, we didn’t have a lot of conversation about our mental health but our transformation to embracing our curls opened up a new path to wellness and prioritizing self-care.
By Cory Varona, La hermana mayor
At 26, I embarked on the journey of motherhood with the arrival of my first son, Elijah. The joy of welcoming him filled my heart, but the experience was challenging when complications arose during my pregnancy. At 33 weeks, I was diagnosed with preeclampsia and had to undergo an emergency C-section. My son spent 11 days in the NICU, and I faced a tough recovery both physically and emotionally.
During this dark time, I found hope in embracing my natural beauty through curly hair care, introduced by my sister, Nicol. Caring for my curls became a powerful form of self-expression and healing. Through this journey, I discovered the importance of self-love and care. Prioritizing these aspects has not only helped me heal but also made me a better mom.
Here are my top tips on how self-love and care can improve your wellbeing:
- Prioritize Your Well-being: I know it is easier said than done, however, taking time for yourself helps you recharge and be more present for your children and other loved ones around you. Simple acts like a relaxing bath or a quiet moment with a book can make a significant difference. Try to set aside 5-10 minutes daily to prioritize your well-being. These daily little moments amount to a huge impact overtime.
- Embrace Your Passions: Although this sounds like more work with our already busy schedule. Engaging in activities that bring you joy, such as a hobby or exercise, can boost your mood and energy levels, positively impacting your family. I love skiing and doing this sport helps my mental health immensely. When it comes to OCOA, formulations are where my heart lies. I love the creation and research and development to come up with new products. You can see more of this experience in our curl journey page.
- Self-Care Routines: Establishing a daily self-care routine, like skincare or haircare, can be a powerful way to nurture yourself and set a positive example for your children. One of my self-care rituals includes using our Cleanse and Condition duo. Our Curl Care Shampoo, with its relaxing scents, is a key part of my routine. The time I spend styling and nourishing my curls with good ingredients is an essential act of self-love, reinforcing my strength and resilience.
Research shows that a mother's mood significantly impacts her children's future well-being. Prioritizing self-care not only benefits us as mothers or caregivers but also creates a nurturing environment for our children and our loved ones.
As I look back on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for the obstacles that led me here. For it was in my darkest hour that I found my true purpose—to help others embrace their natural beauty and love themselves just as they are #borntobe.
I’d love to hear about your self-care routines. Leave a comment so more hermanas can incorporate these little moments into their lives.
Are you looking for hydrating and moisturizing products to help you get started on your curly hair journey? Order your free Ocoa samples. If you are a new customer use code GRATIS at checkout.
Comments
As a mother, I struggle with self care so much. Thank you for sharing this.