Living with HIV for nearly two decades, Ashley has embraced a transformative self-care routine that goes beyond medications, focusing on both her physical and mental well-being. Her journey reflects resilience, self-discovery, and a commitment to meeting her own needs through what she aptly calls LAVA: Love, Attention, Validation, and Acceptance.
Ashley emphasizes breaking destructive patterns by no longer relying on others to fulfill her needs. Instead, she discovered the power of self-love and attention. “I had always looked to others to get my needs met, and it always left me wanting,” she shares. Recognizing the importance of meeting these needs herself and finding spiritual fulfillment, Ashley embarked on a holistic self-care journey.
A crucial aspect of Ashley’s routine involves a weekly body scrub using Shea Moisture’s coconut & Hibiscus hand and body scrub, a ritual that not only cares for her skin but symbolizes shedding the old and embracing the new. Pairing this with a soothing feet bath and regular pedicures, Ashley not only pampers herself but also ensures physical well-being.
Incorporating alkaline water into her daily intake is another key element of Ashley’s routine. Consuming at least a quart a day, she attests to its positive impact on her overall health. Combined with regular physical activity, which she engages in 3-4 times a week, Ashley ensures her body is resilient and strong.
Ashley maintains a keen awareness of her mental health through daily activities. Monitoring her engagement in cooking and cleaning, she recognizes changes as indicators of her emotional state. “If it declines over long periods, then I know I’m depressed,” she says. This mindfulness allows her to address mental health concerns proactively.
Sleep, a crucial component of well-being, is prioritized by Ashley. Consistent with her commitment to self-care, she ensures she gets adequate rest. Additionally, steering clear of candy, which she acknowledges as a challenge, underscores her dedication to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Ashley’s spiritual balance is paramount, achieved through daily journaling, reading spiritual and religious books, and actively serving others. Whether it’s her son, her faith, or herself, being of service plays a pivotal role in meeting the core needs of LAVA.
In Ashley’s inspiring journey, we witness the power of self-care transcending the physical, delving into the realms of mental and spiritual well-being. Her routine serves as a testament to the transformative potential within, reminding us all of the importance of prioritizing self-love, attention, validation, and acceptance in our lives.
