by Rapper Common has always been known for his introspective and socially conscious music, but in a recent interview, he opened up about a different side of his life – his wellness journey. The Grammy-winning artist revealed that the Black queens of Brooklyn and his faith have been instrumental in shaping his approach to wellness.
Common, whose real name is Lonnie Rashid Lynn Jr., grew up on the South Side of Chicago and rose to fame in the 90s as a rapper with a message. But behind the scenes, he was struggling with his own personal wellness. In a recent interview with Men’s Health magazine, Common discussed how he has been able to find peace and balance in his life through his connection to his Black heritage and his spirituality.
The rapper shared that his journey began with a realization about the importance of self-care and self-love. He credited the strong Black women in his life, particularly those from Brooklyn, with teaching him about the power of self-care and the importance of honoring oneself. Common spoke about the strong women who surrounded him in Brooklyn, where he currently resides, and how their resilience and strength have inspired him to prioritize his wellness.
He also discussed the influence of his faith on his wellness journey, revealing that his spirituality has been a guiding force in his life. Common grew up in a Christian household and has always been open about the role that faith plays in his life. In the interview, he shared that his faith has been a source of strength and stability for him, helping him navigate the ups and downs of his career and personal life.
Common’s openness about his wellness journey is timely, as Black communities continue to grapple with the impact of systemic racism and the ongoing fight for equality. For many Black people, prioritizing wellness is an act of resistance – a way to reclaim their bodies and minds in a world that often seeks to diminish and oppress them.
The rapper’s message of self-love and self-care is particularly resonant in the context of the Black Lives Matter movement, which has brought attention to the mental and emotional toll of racism and discrimination. Common’s reflection on his own wellness journey serves as a reminder that self-care is not just a luxury, but a necessity for Black people to thrive in a society that too often devalues their lives and experiences.
In addition to his personal experiences, Common also emphasized the importance of community and support in his wellness journey. He highlighted the role of therapy and mentorship in helping him navigate his own mental health, and spoke about the value of connecting with others who share similar experiences. Common’s words are a reminder of the power of community in healing and resilience, particularly for marginalized populations who may face unique challenges in accessing resources and support.
Common’s message of self-care and wellness is not just an individual pursuit, but a collective effort. He emphasized the need for Black communities to come together to support one another, and to create spaces where people can be open and vulnerable about their mental and emotional well-being. In doing so, Common is helping to break down the stigma surrounding mental health in Black communities, and is offering a powerful example of how individuals can work together to promote wellness and healing.
As the world continues to grapple with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, issues of mental health and wellness have come to the forefront. Common’s openness about his own wellness journey serves as a powerful reminder that we all have a role to play in supporting one another through difficult times, and that self-care is an essential part of that process. His message is particularly resonant for Black communities, who continue to face the disproportionate impact of the pandemic on their physical and mental well-being.
In sharing his story, Common is not only opening up about his own struggles and triumphs, but offering a message of hope and resilience to others. His journey is a testament to the power of self-love and faith, and a reminder that wellness is possible for all, regardless of background or circumstance. As a respected figure in the music industry, Common’s words hold weight and have the potential to inspire and uplift countless individuals who may be struggling with their own wellness journeys.
In a time of uncertainty and unrest, Common’s message is a beacon of hope and a reminder that wellness is within reach for all of us. His willingness to be vulnerable and honest about his own experiences is a powerful example of the strength that comes from seeking support and connection, and a testament to the transformative power of self-care and faith. As Common continues to share his message of love and resilience, he is proving to be not just a talented rapper, but a powerful advocate for wellness and healing in the Black community and beyond.
