What has nurturing yourself looked like in this current season of your life?
Nurturing myself lately has looked like slowing down enough to actually listen to what my body, mind, and spirit need instead of pushing through. It’s choosing rest without earning it first, protecting my peace, creating intentionally, and allowing myself to receive the same care I so naturally give to others.
What did you have to unlearn about self-care?
I had to unlearn the idea that self-care is selfish or something that only happens after everything and everyone else is taken care of. I’m learning that caring for myself consistently is what allows me to show up fully and sustainably for the people and causes I love.
Was there a moment where you realized you needed to choose yourself differently?
I realized I needed to choose myself differently when I started paying attention to how much of myself I was giving away just trying to keep up with everyone else’s expectations. It shifted my relationship with time, energy, and priorities, and taught me that choosing myself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary.
How do you navigate guilt while prioritizing yourself?
I remind myself that boundaries are an act of love, not rejection. Guilt still shows up sometimes, but I’ve learned that resting, saying no, or protecting my energy doesn’t make me less caring. It allows me to be more present and intentional when I do show up.
What does healing look like for you today?
Healing for me today looks less like “getting back” to who I was and more like becoming someone softer, wiser, and a little more unapologetic. It’s in the little things, like good music on repeat, dancing around my space, laughing until I forget what I was stressed about, and romanticizing the quiet moments like they’re part of the plan. It’s choosing joy on purpose, taking breaks without a guilt monologue, and letting myself be both a whole human and a work in progress at the same time.
Name: Avamarie Warden
Role: Metastatic breast cancer thriver, content creator, dancer, model, and community advocate.
Who You Nurture: I nurture myself, the people I love, and the communities that remind others they don’t have to navigate hard things alone.
5 songs on repeat:
Be Alive - Beyonce
The Cuntiest - Spilata
Lady Lady - Olivia Dean
I'm That Girl - Beyonce
I Can't Wait - Sanchez