Shannon D Martin: 0:00

Hello, beautiful, welcome back to today's conversation. I've been talking with y'all it seems like it's been a while since it's just been me but today's episode is especially meaningful. I recently had the pleasure of interviewing two incredible women who shared powerful lessons that really made me stop and think, so I wanted to kind of do a recap on their conversations. Have you ever wondered if your household products might be affecting your health, or what it's like to go on a solo retreat and find your inner power? Well, today I wanted to talk about it. The two conversations I had were with Melissa Flnt and Shana Lee Scott. These two women have made major breakthroughs in their wellness journeys. Let's talk about it. I'm your host, Shannon Martin, and welcome to today's episode of this Thing Called Wellness.

Shannon D Martin: 0:53

First, I had the privilege of speaking with Melissa Flnt. Her story began with her having experiencing sharp stabbing pains in her back. They led her to see several specialists. Finally, a General Physician diagnosed her with anxiety disorder. But what I found even more eye-opening was that her health journey didn't stop there. During her annual mammogram, her doctor recommended a thermogram which revealed hot spots on her body, particularly on her breasts. Her doctor advised her to remove xenoestrogens from her home, which are chemicals that are often found in everyday cleaning products. Right? So I found out that it takes only 26 seconds for those chemicals to absorb into our skin. It takes only 26 seconds for those chemicals to absorb into our skin and your skin being the largest organ, it absorbs directly into our bloodstream. After learning that, I was floored. These invisible toxins were suddenly taking a toll on her health. One of my biggest takeaways from our conversation is that you have to stay vigilant about your help, constantly seeking answers when you know something's wrong. You need a solid support system, and Melissa and I both talked about how being a part of the Behind Her Brand community connected us, and how it has been vital to not only the resources for us, but also helping us to build our businesses, but also helping us build each other up along the way. Right. We couldn't also stress enough the power of having prayer circle and close friends who remind you you're not imagining things right, you're actually going through something and we'll figure it out together.

Shannon D Martin: 2:45

Now, Shana- Lee Scott I love her. I love that conversation because it was all about intentional self-care. Shana was always that extra friend air quotations the one who took time out for herself, even in college she was way before her time right with the self-care She'd light candles, take long baths, soak and jam out to her music just soaking up time alone. Honestly, I admire that about her. Shana's journey took a beautiful turn when she went on a solar retreat where she packed her own goodie bag. I love how extra she is. The retreat where she packed her own goodie bag I love how extra she is. That retreat inspired her to create her own wellness brand and she later started hosting retreats for other women. Just last weekend she held her first retreat, pointing to other women and allowing them to pour into her. As a certified life coach, she's helping women find their empowerment and Self-Focus that she embodies so well.

Shannon D Martin: 3:47

My key takeaway from Shana was to not be afraid to spend time with yourself, whether it's a simple warm bath or something more elaborate like a full retreat. The important thing is that you're focusing on you and, trust me, it doesn't have to be complicated Run a bath, light a candle, play some calming music and just or, if you're feeling kind of bold like she was, plan a solo retreat. Last year I attended a retreat called Walk by Faith, and while I knew people there, there were a lot of people that I didn't know. The fact that I went by myself was a huge step for me, because I always wanted to spend time with my family. I always wanted to explore the things that I explored so that we can, you know, have those memories together. But now that I'm in a season of self-awareness and focus, I want to do something completely solo, just for me. Now here's something I want us to think about and reflect on Self-Care is a journey, not a destination.

Shannon D Martin: 5:05

We've all heard that right. It's not about making one big change that fixes everything. It's about consistently making small, intentional shifts that improve your well-being over time. Whether it's becoming more conscious about the products we use in our homes, like Melissa shared, or simply allowing ourselves time for a solo reflection, like Shana's story inspired, these are the everyday breakthroughs that matter.

Shannon D Martin: 5:33

It's so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life. You know, shuffling between work, family and other responsibilities, like being a caregiver. All of that. We often forget to ask ourselves the important question how you doing, girl? And that question deserves an honest answer. When you feel something is off, don't ignore it. Sit with it for a while. When it's anxiety whether it's anxiety, just physical discomfort or just feeling drained? Listen to your body, right? Like Melissa reminded me, sometimes it's the invisible factors in our environment, those things we take for granted, like cleaning products, that are slowly taking a toll on us, and the changes we need to make, while small, can have a huge impact on our overall well-being and health.

Shannon D Martin: 6:24

Shana taught us another crucial lesson Don't be afraid to spend time with yourself. It doesn't have to be complicated or extravagant. It can be something as simple as taking a long bath, lighting a candle and putting on your favorite playlist. Self-care can also be as bold as going on a solo retreat to really reset and reconnect with who you are. The important thing is that you're taking the time to focus on you.

Shannon D Martin: 6:54

For me, this was a major takeaway. I realized that, even though I used to do things with my family or friends, stepping out of doing something solo is not only empowering but necessary for personal growth. And, trust me, you don't have to wait for the perfect moment to have everything figured out. Start small. Maybe this weekend you'll switch out one toxic product in your home for something healthier, or maybe you'll carve out an hour, or in your home for something healthier, or maybe you'll carve out an hour or maybe even 15 minutes just for you to journal, read, color, meditate or simply just sit in silence. The key here is to make the time that you deserve earth.

Shannon D Martin: 7:41

One of the things I learned I also learned from both of these women is that not only do we need to prioritize our health, both mentally and physically, because if we're not taking care of ourselves, how can we show up for the people and things we care most? You all heard that right, because, remember, self-care isn't selfish. It's really essential and I've learned that the hard way. And whatever step you take, no matter how big or small, is a step in the right direction. Make these changes slowly, but make them you matter. Take the time to access what areas of your life need a little more attention and give yourself permission to take care of you, whether it's cleaning up your environment or carving out time to reconnect with yourself. I encourage you to take one small step today, right?

Shannon D Martin: 8:32

Thank you so much for joining me on this recap episode of this Thing Called Wellness. I hope the stories of Melissa and Shana have inspired you to think about your own wellness journeys in new ways, and if you missed their incredible conversation, you can tune in to Episode 36 to hear Melissa's and Episode 37 to hear Shana's. Their information is also included in our show notes, and please don't forget to subscribe, leave your review and let me know how you're making space for your own self-care. Until next time, take care of yourself because you're worth it. Love you, girl. Disclaimer I am not a licensed mental health professional. I am not a licensed mental health professional. The information provided here is for general information and purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you need help, please consult a qualified mental health professional.