Melanin & Pink Ribbons

Weathering is defined as the effects of racism and poverty on our physical health. In addition to the previously stated, it includes microaggressions, socioeconomic hardships, and the ensuing stress and how it wears down our physical health leaving us susceptible to poor health outcomes. I know that’s a mouthful, but it could partially explain why our breast cancer rates are higher than Caucasian women.

I have shared the effects of stress on the body and how it elevates our blood pressure, inflammation and increases heart rate. These factors put our bodies in a fight-or-flight mode. You remember learning about it in school, it is when we are in a stressful circumstance, and we naturally respond to stress with a desire to fight out of the scenario or flee the situation. Once in flight or fight mode, cortisol is released into our bodies, and this can inflict damage to our internal organs as well as contribute to poor health.

There is no quick fix to weathering, but we can be aware of it and respond with increased self-care. Try incorporating meditation, exercise, massages, or journaling to relieve stress before it has a negative on you.