Mindfulness Q&A with J’Nai Williams
FOH: What is your name?
J’Nai: J’Nai Williams
FOH: Your current job title and place of business?
J’Nai: Social Media Manager at Lush Life
FOH: How do you define mindfulness?
J’Nai: Mindfulness is the ability to do self-assessment, whether it be mentally or physically, and be honest with yourself about your health so that you can make adjustments when needed.
FOH: How does mindfulness play a part in your everyday life?
J’Nai: Everyday, I set the same mindfulness goal: three 10-15 minute meditations and one journal entry. This method has been the most helpful in maintaining my mental health. Because daily life with a toddler is so unpredictable, sometimes I can only get 1 meditation in if any at all. I also live with 4 other adults, which makes finding a private place to meditate hard sometimes. But, meditation has become an essential part of my mental health upkeep. I try my best to wake up early or make time before bed to make sure I get it done. I also set fitness goals for myself; working out has been the best stress reliever during quarantine. I can relieve stress and feel good about taking care of my body, too.
FOH: There are so many kinds of wellness- physical, mental, environmental, spiritual. Which of these resonates the most with you and why?
J’Nai: Definitely mental wellness. After suffering from depression - brought on by major life changes due to Hurricane Katrina - and then PPD after having a baby, I had to find an outlet for mental health without access to a therapist. I cannot be a good mother to my child if I am not taking care of myself, and to do that I meditate and journal everyday. Meditation helps improve my long term concentration and quiets my underlying thoughts, allowing me to reach a state of mental calm. Journaling helps me to organize my thoughts and upcoming tasks. Writing down what you are thinking often forces you to recognize how your thoughts affect your self esteem and vice versa. It helps me to pivot if I realize that my self esteem isn’t great at the moment or keep it up if I’m in great spirits.
FOH: Do you have any advice for someone who is struggling to find mindfulness in their lives?
J’Nai: Your health is wealth, and when you are mentally healthy, the other pieces of your life start to fall in line. Start small, maybe by taking 5 minutes a day to meditate in the morning to start your day or writing 3-5 lines in a journal about how you’re feeling that day. Figure out what makes you happy and at peace and find small ways to incorporate those things into your life everyday.
