Recently, I discovered a stress care brand created with our people in mind called Deon Libra, founded by Devin McGhee Kirkland and Brit McGhee Kirkland. What caught my interest immediately was their dedication to addressing the overwhelming effects of stress within the Black community through education, products, and experiences.
At first glance of their Unbothered Elixir, I noticed the bright red packaging, which expressed the urgency for stress care due to the stats showing how stress can not only impact our health but also take our lives.
Since the pandemic, there have been stories discussing the deadly stress that Black people face, but as a community, we know that stress has riddled our bodies long before the pandemic due to systemic racism, intergenerational trauma, and our everyday lives.
I experienced an immense amount of stress recently, and I noticed a few things that worried me: gray hair, acne, and restlessness. Thankfully, due to a 40-day fast and prayer, I found myself and my spirit settled going into the new year. But what happens when the stress finds its way to my home again?
When I began learning more about Deon Libra, I was introduced to their elixir, which is an adaptogenic blend of lion’s mane, reishi, amla, ashwagandha, sea buckthorn, and maca that helps keep your skin glowing and anxiety on low-low, while cordyceps aids in delivering a boost of all-natural energy.
Now, at first glance, my thought was this - ya girl don’t know nothing about no lion’s mane lol (I had to be honest!) That said, after some research on the benefits that include nervous system repair, gut health, killing cancer cells, and more, I was sold.
Trying the Award Winning Unbothered Elixir
When opening the package, I thought, “This is how Black-owned products should look and feel. We should be excited about wellness, and the experience should be luxurious.” Along with boiling water and my favorite tea, I added one tablespoon of the elixir and grabbed their Limited Edition Mean Mug that I ordered to enjoy it in style.
The taste of the maca met my tongue and taste buds immediately. I found myself saying to myself that my next dose of the elixir would be in a warm bowl of oatmeal versus tea.
How I Felt After Trying the Unbothered Elixir
It was the midday relaxer that I needed. I am a firm believer that drinking hot beverages in and of itself is a meditative act because it requires a level of stillness that you have to surrender to the experience. Every sip truly put me at ease, and it shocked me again that it tasted so good due to experiences with wellness powders that I’ve tried in the past.
How the Experts Recommend You Try It:
If you like it straight up:
Mix one tablespoon in warm water or your choice of milk. Add honey for the sweet life.
For the coffee lovers:
Mix one tablespoon into freshly brewed coffee. Add a splash of milk and honey if you like it like that.
In case you’re feeling froggy:
Add a tablespoon to your daily smoothie, oatmeal, and latte—the list goes on and on, like Badu.
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It's easy for couples to fall into a routine, going through the motions and letting their connection sit on autopilot. While comfort is natural in a long-term relationship, it’s important to remember: that what you don’t nurture, eventually fades. So, why not make 2025 the year you reset your relationship? Here’s how to start the year with a renewed bond, reigniting the spark that brought you together.
Step 1: Schedule Your Reset Meeting
The first step to hitting the reset button is a State of the Union meeting with your partner. This is your chance to take a pulse on the relationship, discuss what's working, and identify areas that need attention. It’s all about creating space to reflect, without distractions.
Grab a pen and paper (or open a shared note on your phone) and come prepared to share your top 2-3 desires for your relationship.
What do you both want to feel more of in 2025? Maybe it’s feeling more appreciated, or perhaps you want to reignite the passion you had when you first started dating. Whatever it is, get clear about it, and make sure both of you are on the same page.
This isn’t just about listing your own wants, it’s also about discussing ways to nurture each other’s needs. Relationship goals should be focused on fostering deeper intimacy, trust, and mutual respect. Use this time to check in, not only with each other but with your individual feelings and expectations. Set the foundation for a fulfilling year ahead.
Alistair Berg/Getty ImagesStep 2: Set A Date (Or Multiple!)
Having the meeting is only the first step. Now, it’s time to take action. One of the simplest ways to breathe new life into a relationship is by reintroducing consistent, intentional time spent together. For many couples, life gets busy, and date nights fall by the wayside. But dating doesn’t stop when you say "I do"—in fact, it’s even more essential.
During your reset meeting, lock in a regular date night that works for both of your schedules. This could be a weekly dinner date or an every-other-week adventure—whatever keeps things fresh. The goal is consistency. It’s easy to push date nights aside when life gets hectic, but if you set a specific date each week or month, you’re making your relationship a priority.
If you’re unsure what to do for your date nights, don’t worry! The key is creating new experiences together. This is what sparks excitement and brings you closer as a couple. Whether it’s cooking a new recipe together, trying a dance class, or exploring a nearby town, it’s about creating shared memories that build your connection.
Getty ImagesStep 3: Find an Accountability Partner
Just like you might have a personal trainer to help you crush your fitness goals, an accountability partner for your relationship can do wonders for keeping both of you on track. Consider hiring a marriage coach or therapist—someone who can meet you where you are and guide you in strengthening your relationship.
When selecting a professional, it’s important to choose someone who truly wants the best for your marriage and can provide actionable advice.
Don’t be afraid to set high standards for your relationship, and seek guidance on how to keep it thriving for the long haul. In your reset meeting, discuss your commitment to growth, and be honest about areas where you may need support.
Marriage isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it endeavor—it’s an ongoing process. Regular check-ins with a professional can help keep your relationship in tip-top shape and “divorce-proof” by addressing issues before they become insurmountable.
DMP/ Getty ImagesStep 4: Try Something New Together
Stale routines can easily make a relationship feel monotonous. Spice things up by trying something new! Couples that explore new activities and create new memories together have stronger, more fulfilling bonds.
My husband and I host one of the top luxury marriage retreats, A Weekend For Love, designed to help couples experience new things together. From couples' workshops to outdoor adventures, the retreat provides a platform to rediscover each other and reconnect on a deeper level.
The element of surprise can reignite your connection. It’s exciting, fresh, and shows your partner that you’re committed to growing together. This doesn’t have to be a huge commitment—it could be as simple as trying a new hobby or planning an impromptu weekend getaway.
Your Relationship Should Be A Priority
As you start the year with personal goals in mind, don’t forget the importance of nurturing your relationship. It’s easy to get caught up in work, fitness, and family obligations, but your bond with your partner deserves to be at the top of your list. Resetting your relationship offers an opportunity to reignite that spark and remind each other why you fell in love in the first place.
In 2025, make a commitment to prioritize your partnership, to nurture it daily, and to invest in its growth. Take time to celebrate each other’s victories, support one another’s dreams, and build a foundation of love and respect. When you start the year with a clear focus on your relationship, you’re setting it up for success.
So, before you start mapping out your new workout plan or work goals, do yourself a favor: put your relationship at the top of that list. Your love story deserves a fresh start, too.
Happy New Year, and here’s to a love-filled 2025!
Couples, if you are ready to do the work and invest in your relationship register for A Weekend For Love: Heart Retreat Feb 21-23, 2025.
Featured image by zamrznutitonovi/Getty Images
