We could all use a little inspiration; especially in the spoken word form! Dr. Shani Collins Woods, based in Nashville, Tennessee, started the Shani Collins Woods Consulting, LLC, to encourage women to practice self-love and compassion. Her work is centered around faith, self-love, and healthy relationships, and she uses devotionals to reach out to women who need uplifting. Dr. Shani believes that self-care is essential; especially while we’re all facing our own Covid-related issues. She aspires to continue supporting women through her consulting business, and she wants to leave this encouragement: we’ll get through this together! Self-love is easier when you embrace the support of a village, and we’re so thankful to have Dr. Shani’s guidance! We’re elated to introduce you to Dr. Shani, Queen of Consulting!

What inspired you to start your business? What motivates you to keep going?: In 2013, I was completing my PhD in Social Work. I had heard Dr. Kerry Ann Rocquemore speak about academic entrepreneurship. I was inspired to launch my speaking, writing and consulting business as a means to share my gifts with others. My work centers on faith, self love, success, and health relationships. In 2015, I wrote "The SHE Devotional: 31 Daily Inspirations for a Woman's Spirit, Health and Emotions" as a means to encourage busy women to practice self compassion and self love.

I am motivated to keep going because I know I have a larger purpose.

I want to leave a legacy and make a meaningful impact on the world.

How do you create the life you want?: My faith is extremely important to me. Each day, I strive to wake up with intention and to act in a purposeful way. In general, I plan things. I recognize that my spiritual, physical and emotional well-being matters to my success in life. As such, I strive to prioritize those areas. By doing so, I am able to focus on my goals and reach them. I am also in tune with my feelings.

If something doesn't feel right for me or bring me peace, I separate from it or move in a different direction. My life has to be peaceful. I am intentional about seeking out people and experiences that bring me the most peace.

What makes you HUMAN?: I cry, feel, hurt, get upset, have anxiety, laugh and love like all human beings. As a social worker, I am trained to study human behavior and diagnosis people's problems. I am trained to problem solve. It it easy to focus the lens on others and map out a path for them. But what about my own humanity?

I strive to become more self-aware, conscious, and in tune with myself, my feelings, my thoughts, my joy and pain. I also strive to tune into the plight of those around me. My husband, Timothy, tells me I care about issues that others might not find interesting. I love knowing why people think, feel, and behave certain ways. My passion for seeing people live whole healthy makes lives me human because I share that same desire. If I can help others learn and/or be taught by others, I welcome the experience. We are all works in progress.

What's three things you want us to know about self-love/wellness?: I speak on self love and wellness each day and to many people in various spaces.

I always tell people: self love and self care are not independent. If you do not love yourself, you will not care for yourself.

Second, self love allows you to clearly know your value and self-worth as a human. When you know your worth, you will raise the standards for yourself. Third, boundaries are a part of self-love. It is not selfish to prioritize your spiritual, mental and physical health You must protect your personal peace at all costs.

What's something we can incorporate today to LIVE LIFE WELL?:: Given the gravity of Covid-19 and its impact on all aspects of our lives, self care is essential. I believe it is important to strive to to make responsible food choices and to exercise. It is important to make time for your spiritual, physical, and emotional health. Activities like prayer and meditation, walking, jogging, running, dancing, and writing, signing, even TikTokking and provide a release. You don't have to be perfect. You just have to try to prioritize yourself. Also, let go of shame. During this pandemic, if you need help in any area of your life, ask for it. Shame paralyzes us and stresses us out. Due to Covid-19, many people are extremely stressed and struggling with anxiety. We all need help in various areas of our lives. We will get through this experience, together. Ask for what you need. Don't suffer in silence.

Email Address: askdrshani@gmail.com

Website: http://Www.Askdrshani.com

Social media handles?: @askdrshani on

YouTube, Twitter and Instagram

I'm updating my professional websites.

Shanicollins.com (rebranding)

AskDrShani.com (rebranding)

I speak on self love and wellness each day...