Behind the Crown {Vol 2}
Empress Weekly Reflections
Thanksgiving Reflections & Seasonal Resets
Thanksgiving, or Family Day as I say, just passed, and I’ve been feeling so grateful—not just for the big things but for the little moments that remind me life is worth savoring. Like, the sound of my kids laughing during a game of Jenga, the smell of peach cobbler baking and the joy of connecting with family and friends around a table full of love.
But let’s be real—once the plates are cleared and the house quiets down, this season can bring a mix of emotions, especially for us single moms balancing it all. That’s why I’ve been thinking a lot about what I need during these colder months to stay grounded and joyful. For me, it’s all about making time for what truly feeds my soul—whether it’s a workout, a pole class, or even something as simple as cooking breakfast for myself without interruptions.
Oh, and let’s not forget we have all types of fun around these parts. I will take time out to check on a roster recruit . If you know, you know. 😂
Surrender December: Embracing Stillness and Growth in the Dark
It’s officially December, and for the third year in a row, I’m joining my sisters to step into Surrender December—a month dedicated to releasing, reflecting, and realigning as we prepare for the Winter Solstice. This practice has become one of my favorite personal traditions, a way to reset my mind, body, and spirit before stepping into the new year.
For me, surrendering is about intentionally letting go of the things that weigh me down or distract me—things that may feel comforting in the moment but ultimately block my growth. Each year, what I choose to surrender shifts with my season. Some days, it’s letting go of social media and taking a break from the endless scroll. Other times, it’s surrendering things like overworking or even sex, focusing instead on nurturing my inner world.
Why December? Well, everything is birthed in the dark. Growth happens most in the unseen, quiet places. Just like seeds take root underground before blooming, we, too, need time to reflect, rest, and plant the intentions we want to nurture in the light.
This year feels even more powerful with Mercury entering retrograde. Retrogrades, especially at the close of a year, call us to slow down, revise, and revisit. What have I been holding onto that no longer serves me? What am I ready to release? How can I use this time for deep introspection and recalibration? These are the questions guiding me right now.
It’s not easy surrendering, especially when the world around us keeps moving at full speed. But this practice isn’t about perfection—it’s about being intentional. For the next 31 days, I’ll be focusing on releasing at least one thing, whether it’s a daily habit, an overindulgence, or a mindset that no longer aligns with my higher self.
For me, surrender is a form of empowerment. It’s saying, “I trust the process, even in the stillness.” And honestly, that trust has brought so much clarity and peace into my life.
What are you surrendering this December? Let’s inspire each other in the Empress Chat—share your practice with us and see how we’re collectively growing! Maybe it’s people-pleasing, negative self-talk, or even just the need to be “on” all the time. Use this time to clear space for the version of ourselves we’re growing into.
🌑 Remember: The dark isn’t a void; it’s where all creation begins.
Let me know what you’re surrendering this month. Share it with me in the Empress Chat, and let’s hold each other accountable! 💜
Empress’s Sunday Reset
Self-care doesn’t always look like a spa day or a solo trip—sometimes it’s as simple as reclaiming a quiet Sunday morning for yourself. This past weekend, I had one of those rare golden moments. After the gym, I made breakfast just for me—not for the kids, not for anyone else, just me!
Protein pancakes with a scoop of protin powder, over-easy eggs, sausages, and fresh tomatoes. 🍃? Check. Water? Double check. Mood? Elevated. I paired it all with my raspberry tea and a sprinkle of Jamaican strong back—perfect for helping me with my back post-baby and keeping my emotions balanced. Fun fact: strong back is not just a tea; it’s a Jamaican superhero for mamas who’ve carried the world on their shoulders (and in their wombs).It wasn’t fancy, but it was sacred.
These little moments remind me that the most luxurious thing we can do is take time to pour back into ourselves. What’s your favorite “me moment” on a Sunday morning? Maybe it’s sipping coffee in silence, a solo walk, or indulging in a book. Whatever it is, embrace it—you deserve it. 💜✨
What’s your favorite “me moment” on a weekend morning? Maybe it’s a solo coffee run, a long shower, or just sitting in silence before the day begins. Whatever it is, embrace it—you deserve it. 💜✨
Crowned and Grounded: Lessons from the Throne
Journaling isn’t just writing—it’s a ritual. It’s your moment to channel the energy of your thoughts, dreams, and intentions onto the page. As Erykah Badu so wisely said, “Write it down on real paper with a real pencil with real intent and watch it get real. Spelling is a spell.” Your words carry energy, and when you journal, you’re casting powerful spells that shape your reality.
This practice is your space to reclaim your story, rediscover your magic, and manifest the life you desire. Whether you’re unpacking your week, celebrating your wins, or setting intentions for what’s next, journaling turns your thoughts into tangible energy. And when you do it with real intent, that energy transforms into action.
So, Empress, let’s get into it. Take these prompts as an invitation to connect with yourself. You can share your reflections in the Empress Chat to inspire our community or keep them as a sacred gift to yourself. Either way, know that every word you write holds power.
What’s one thing that made you smile this week, and how can you create more moments like that?
For me, it was playing an epic game of Jenga with friends and family this Thanksgiving. It was nice to just enjoy company and laugh without the stress of the world of our shoulders
When was the last time you did something for yourself, just because it brought you joy?
My trip to Curaçao earlier this year was everything. It was my first trip out of the country as an adult with kids, and it felt so good to soak up the sun, sleep in, and just be in great company.
What does self-care look like for you right now, and how can you prioritize it?
For me, it’s all about dedicating time to the gym, learning what my body can do, and making space for things that bring me peace—like pole dancing and maybe sneaking in a massage before the year ends.
Level Up With Me: Thee Not Just A Motha 75 Hard Journey!
Join me as I celebrate wrapping up my personalized 75 Hard Plan at the end of December and reflect on how I made it work as a single mom. Plus, I’m thinking about kicking off a Not Just A Motha 75 Hard Challenge for our community in January—would you join me?
Cast your vote in the poll below and let’s make 2025 our year of transformation! 💜✨
Thanks for Reading, Empresses!
Empresses, let me know what resonated most with you this week. Was it the breakfast vibes, the mantras, or the journaling prompts? I love hearing from you! Remember to follow me for daily insights and affirmations that keep your crown shining. 👑✨
👑✨ “Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s how you polish your crown. Stay radiant, Empress.”💜
With love,
Empress Iman👑✨
