Creating Space for Self Care

Many of us remember this childhood saying, Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me. Thinking back on broken relationships, painful interactions, and hurt, some of us would have preferred the sticks and stones. Unfortunately, this childhood mantra was inaccurate; if we are honest - words hurt. The way we use words has a profound effect on our mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Careless words rob us of our joy, peace, and creativity. LaVonne Weaver’s passion for art and writing became an outlet in overcoming the invisible wounds not visible for bandaids but still needed dressing. Art became a safe space for her and helped her begin healing in hidden places. Journaling and quiet time became part of her daily self-care routine. Art became her therapy, every evening she made affirmation/scripture collages, word clouds, and inspirational infographics, and posted them in her environment. She surrounded herself with words that mattered. Now, as a self-care specialist, La Vonne combines her love of teaching and creativity to work alongside compassionate professionals like educators, caregivers, and social service providers. By providing resources, compassionate strategies, workshops, and safe spaces, La Vonne supports women in establishing a sense of self-care from the inside and out. Her company, Liv Vibrantly, tells a story about how challenges can become works of art. Life is a classroom, and our experiences fit together to create beautiful masterpieces. “Self-care is an invitation to love who we are now and embrace who we becoming with compassion.”