RISING ABOVE THE CLOUDS JANUARY MONTHLY NEWS January 7, 2022 |
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As we open a new year and new chapter for our Sisterhood, we would like to take a moment to thank our Ebony Sisters and affiliates for supporting Sister-to-Sister, Inc. We appreciate the assistance offered to grow and enrich our nonprofit through your valuable time, incredible talents, and from those who pay membership. While 2021 presented some challenges, we still have a lot to be grateful for. In 2021, Sister-to-Sister, Inc. not only increased membership nationally, we looked for ways to enhance social connectivity, encouragement, emotional support, shared knowledge, and the promotion of Sisters. We accomplished this in part by hosting monthly networking gatherings with inspiring speakers, affiliating with other nonprofit organizations to promote events and provide resources, and successfully launching our website with many learning resources, and monthly newsletter. Our most valuable network of support is YOU. We at Sister-to-Sister, Inc., are excited to continue our momentum and look forward to building our Sisterhood with each of you and with new Sisters, wherever found. |
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22 Tiny Mental Health Habits That Can Improve Your Life In 2022 By Amber Gibson, HuffPost Another roller coaster year is coming to an end, and the lingering effects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic have certainly taken a collective toll on our mental health. There’s no way to know what 2022 has in store for us, nor can self-care erase the grief, trauma or other challenges we may have endured over the last 12 months. But as we look toward the new year, we can adopt healthy new habits to help incrementally improve our days, even if just for a moment. Sometimes, that’s more than enough. | | |
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Presenting the Debbie Allen Dance Academy - Get Ready to Move Virtually! Recognizing how difficult it is to stay in shape while at home, Sister-to-Sister, Inc. will share info on different opportunities to be physically active, when possible. We found this one from dancer, actress, entrepreneur Debbie Allen. When classes and programs were halted by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Debbie Allen Dance Academy (DADA) pivoted and is now virtually influencing people from around the world. Through its new virtual dance classes, DADA has reached exponentially more people than the typical in-person classes. | | |
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Little Known Secrets About Stress You Need To Know By Sandra Thébaud, Ph.D. A lot of people are suffering from stress. You may be one of them. You may know what triggers your stress. But not everyone does. If you don't know what triggers your stress, then the cause may be a malfunction of the central nervous system. The central nervous system includes your Sympathetic Nervous System and your Parasympathetic Nervous System. It's easier to remember if you think S for Stress and P for Peace. S = Stress Your Sympathetic Nervous System gets activated when you encounter a stressor, something that causes stress. It motivates your body to meet the challenge and overcome it (fight) or get away from it and avoid it (flight). P = Peace Your Parasympathetic Nervous System gets activated once the stressor is gone. It returns your mind, body and emotions back to homeostasis. When it doesn't, your mind, body and emotions remain in stress mode. Some people get used to being in this mode. These are the people who say they get their best work done at the last minute. Without realizing it, they are addicted to the adrenaline high that the Sympathetic Nervous System creates. The reason they do their best work (or think they do) is because the stress response system was designed to enhance focus and concentration and mobilize the body for action (fight or flight). Think about an Olympic athlete and the intense focus and concentration that gets activated for them to perform at their best. But the Sympathetic Nervous System was never designed to stay active for long periods of time. Even the people who think they do their best work under pressure, will eventually feel the effects of adrenal fatigue. The biggest problem I see is that people don't take the stress they're under seriously. That's not to say that people like their stress. I'm saying people make excuses for not doing a better job at dealing with stress. 9 out of 10 people I talk to about stress will find a reason why they won't/can't/don't take the advice I've been generous enough to give them for free! If stress can be reduced, why not reduce it? Is the adrenaline high worth it? About the Author: Sandra Thébaud, PhD has been a Clinical Psychologist for over 25 years. She is also an author, speaker and stress management trainer. For more information, visit www.linkedin.com/in/sandrathebaudphd. © 2021 Sandra Thébaud. All Rights Reserved. |
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“Let Us Be Dissatisfied Until...”: ACLU Colorado Leaders Read JustUs Monologues in Honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Free Performance - Virtual and Live) Monday, January 17, 2022 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. MST Grace Gamm Theater | Dairy Arts Center 2590 Walnut Street, Boulder, CO 80302 Motus Theater and Colorado ACLU present a special performance in which Deborah Richardson, Executive Director of Colorado ACLU, and Velveta Golightly-Howell, member of the Colorado ACLU Board of Directors, will stand with Juaquin Mobley and Brandon Wainright, from Motus Theater’s JustUs project, and read aloud their stories of dehumanization and injustice experienced at the hands of the criminal legal system. Monologues will be woven with healing and inspiring musical responses by acclaimed singer & songwriter Carlos Heredia who is premiering a new song in honor of the JustUs monologues. The reading will be followed by a discussion on the racism and violence within the criminal legal system in light of Dr. King Jr.’s civil rights legacy. MOTUS Theater is an affiliate of Sister-to-Sister, Inc., and our nonprofit is pleased to serve as a co-sponsor of this event. |
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JustUs Family-Friendly Performance in Honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Free Performance) Monday, January 20, 2022 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. MST Gordon Gamm Theater | The Dairy Arts Center 2590 Walnut Street, Boulder, CO, 80302 Motus Theater presents the Boulder County premiere of JustUs: Stories from the Frontlines of the Criminal Justice System Family-Friendly Performance in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The autobiographical stories were created in a 16-week collaborative process between Motus Theater’s Artistic Director, Kirsten Wilson, and Cierra Block, Brian Lynch, Joaquin Mobley, Brandon Wainright. These stories present impactful depictions of the consequences of incarceration, and the injustice within the criminal justice system (both behind bars and beyond) with the goal of inspiring, informing, and engaging audiences in the need to restore justice to the criminal justice system itself. |
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Children in 2nd through 5th grades, who love to sing and perform should join Colorado Children’s Chorale for an audition in January! Reserve a time for your child, for a fun, simple, 10-minute audition. Parents are welcome to come too! Saturday, January 8 & 22, 2022 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. MST Colorado Children's Chorale
2420 West 26th Avenue, Denver, CO 80211 About The Colorado Children’s Chorale: The Colorado Children’s Chorale presents energetic concerts and educational programs that entertain, inspire and bring joy to audiences across Colorado and around the globe. Through song, we transform the lives of children and leave an enduring impact in families, audiences and communities. | | |
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DON’T MISS DANCE THEATRE OF HARLEM (Seats are going fast!) January 14-15, 2022 7:30 p.m., MST June Swaner Gates Concert Hall | The Newman Center 2344 E Iliff Ave, Denver, CO 80210 Dance Theatre of Harlem is a leading dance institution of unparalleled global acclaim, encompassing a professional touring company, a leading studio school, and a national and international education and community outreach program. Each component of Dance Theatre of Harlem carries a solid commitment towards enriching the lives of young people and adults around the world through the arts. Founded in 1969 by Arthur Michell and Karel Shook, Dance Theatre of Harlem is considered “one of ballet’s most exciting undertakings” according to The New York Times. Presenting a powerful vision of ballet in the 21st century, the 18-member, multi-ethnic touring company performs a forward-thinking repertoire that includes treasured classics, neoclassical works by George Balanchine and resident choreographer Robert Garland, as well as innovative contemporary works that use the language of ballet to celebrate African American culture. Through performances, community engagement and arts education, the Company carries forward Dance Theatre of Harlem’s message of empowerment through the arts for all. The work of Dance Theatre of Harlem has been enjoyed by millions in 2021 through such avenues as The Ellen DeGeneres Show and the online streaming series DTH On Demand that was created to help bring Dance Theatre of Harlem’s artistry directly into the homes of fans across the world. |
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SISTER-TO-SISTER ANNOUNCEMENTS |
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As you consider donating food to churches and other food banks, please keep the following in mind - Shared by Sister Marianne Clements Church and Other Food Banks’ Donation Needs: 1. Kraft Mac and Cheese in a box is often donated, however food banks rarely use the product because it needs milk and butter which are donated infrequently. 2. Boxed milk is a treasure. 3. Cereal for kids need it for cereal which they also get a lot of. 3. Many people donate pasta sauce and spaghetti noodles. 4. Many also donate canned veggies and soup; if donated, please include a can opener or buy pop tops. 5. Oil, a luxury, is welcomed by food banks; it’s needed for Rice a-Roni which is often donated in abundance. 6. Spices or salt and pepper would be a real Christmas gift. 7. Tea bags and coffee make them feel like you care. 8. Sugar and flour are treats. 9. Food banks fawn over fresh produce donated by farmers and grocery stores. 10. Seeds are cool in spring and summer because growing can be easy for some. 11. Food banks rarely get fresh meat and would welcome it. 12. Tuna and crackers make a good lunch. 13. Hamburger Helper goes nowhere without ground beef. 14. While food banks receive lots of peanut butter and jelly, sandwich bread isn’t often donated. 15. Butter or margarine is nice too. 16. Eggs are a real commodity. 17. Cake mix and frosting will enable children to enjoy a child’s birthday cake. 18. Dishwashing detergent is very expensive and is always appreciated. 19. Feminine hygiene products are luxury items, and women will cry over that. 20. Everyone loves Stove Top Stuffing. *List assembled from interviewing food bank employees. |
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Healthy Habits to Start the New Year Off Right By Teri Sewell Huff 5 Ideas for New Year Resolutions The new year is the perfect time to start building healthy habits. It feels like a fresh start, it’s right after the busy holiday season, and we (hopefully) feel rested and re-energized, ready to get back on track. Whether you want to eat healthier or improve your mental well-being, here are some healthy habits that you can focus on in the new year. Limit Screen Time If the first and last thing you do every day is browsing your phone and checking work emails, try to make a habit of limiting your screen time. When you wake up in the morning, try not to check your phone or laptop for the first half-hour. Instead, use that time for yourself. Set your goals and intentions for the day, make a healthy breakfast, or do your morning workout routine. Before bed, set your phone aside and take time to unwind and relax. This will increase productivity, decrease stress, help you sleep better, and improve your mood. Cook More Meals at Home The holidays are full of good company and good food, but the new year is the perfect time to start using your kitchen again. Not only will cooking your meals save you money, but it will also help you get back on track with your regular routine. You can choose your ingredients, understand what you’re eating (and how much), and eat a balanced diet full of all the nutrients you need. If you struggle to cook, start by making one meal or preparing your snacks at home, and stick to easy recipes until you feel more comfortable. Move Your Body This is one of the most common healthy habits we attempt to start in the new year, but it never gets any less important. Try to incorporate some movement into your day, even if it’s just pacing around the house while talking on the phone. If you have a lunch break, use that time to take a walk or do some stretches. If you can, take your exercise outdoors to get some fresh air and clear your mind. Practice Self-Care and Hygiene Whether it’s getting a manicure or cooking a healthy, delicious dinner for yourself, try to practice more self-care this year. If you find it difficult to do these acts of self-care, start with building small but important hygiene habits, such as a nightly skin routine. Sometimes, it can be challenging to find the motivation or energy, but these small steps will tremendously help your mental and physical well-being. Establish a Sleep Schedule Sleep is such an essential part of health and well-being, but many of us tend to ignore our body’s need for rest. Try to stick to a sleep schedule that gives you 7-8 hours of sleep each night. You should be going to sleep and waking up around the same times each day, regardless of if it’s a weekday or weekend. This helps your body establish a natural sleep-wake cycle, so you get good quality sleep. If you have trouble falling asleep, try to cut down on the caffeine and put your screens away at least an hour before bed.
As always, it is a pleasure to be part of this organization and to watch it grow. I am happy to help anyone with their health journey. My mission includes beauty, health and happiness.
If you're ready for THIS to be the year you finally make some changes that stick. I have something special for you. I'm offering an exciting and transformational session to help you map out your goals for the year and make them a reality. This (60-90 minute, whichever you feel is best for your style) Resolution Refresh Session is sure to help you dive deeper and see what needs some refreshing in your life.
In health and happiness, Teri Sewell Huff Holistic Health Coach and Culinary Nutrition Educator terisewell@gmail.com www.luvingyourhealthylife.com IG - @terishealthyways Facebook Group Wellness Walk and Talk Group |
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Feeling Lonely? Try Connecting with an elder or young person. There are many intergenerational programs that work to combat isolation by pairing older adults with younger people. To learn more about these programs, visit: 1) Big and Mini at bigandmini.org, 2) Eldera at eldera.ai, and 3) DOROT at dorotusa.org. Source: AARP, November 2021 Edition |
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Looking for a legal opportunity? Diverse Talent is hiring an Employment Litigation Associate. If you meet the qualifications, submit your application below. |
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