Body and Soul : The Black Women's Guide to Physical Health and Emotional Well-Being - Softcover

Linda Villarosa is an award-winning health and science writer and Executive Editor at Essence magazine. She lectures across the USA to student, health, and women's groups, and lives in Brooklyn, New York. The National Black Women's Health Project, based in Atlanta, Georgia, was founded by Byllye Avery in 1981. It is a national and international self-help and health-advocacy organisation committed to improving the health of black women.

Villarosa, a senior editor for Essence magazine, became involved with the National Black Women's Health Project, based in Atlanta, Georgia, discovered the disheartening facts about black women's health care, and decided to do something, which set the stage for this powerful, straight-from-the heart guide. Contributors are black female scientists, academics, health care practitioners, and writers. Though not intended to replace doctor visits, the guide critically addresses illnesses, such as fibroids, keloids, and diabetes, that have traditionally afflicted a large percentage of the female African American community. The section titles suggest the work's content and approach: "Our Bodies"; "Our Reproductive Health"; "Our Health Care"; "Our Emotional Well Being"; "Loving"; and "Keeping Safe in a Hostile World." Each section contains a history of its topic as it relates to African American women, an exemplary first-person narrative, and tips for combating the illnesses. The end-of-chapter material, truly empowering, is outstanding. More than a listing of information, it offers a means of achieving help--the chapter with the discussion on the hazards of cigarettes concludes with steps for smoking cessation. This is a one-source volume for women who wish to empower themselves and to improve their physical, emotional, and mental health. All libraries servicing an African American community will not be able to keep this book on the shelf. Lillian Lewis