Harmony Integrative Healthcare

02/22/2026

02/21/2026

Born into slavery in New York City in 1813, James McCune Smith set his sights on becoming a doctor when he was a young man. He was denied admission to American colleges because he was Black, but he was able to attend the University of Glasgow in Scotland, where he earned his bachelor’s, master’s, and medical degrees by age 24.


Dr. Smith had a keen interest in languages, mastering Latin, Greek, and French, and developed a working knowledge of Hebrew, Italian, Spanish, and German. When he returned to New York City in 1837, he established his own medical office and pharmacy at 93 West Broadway, making him the first African American doctor with his own practice in the United States. As a physician, he treated both Black and white patients, and also served as the chief doctor at the New York City Colored Orphan Asylum.

Smith devoted much of his life to working with abolitionists to end the enslavement of Black people in the South. He died about three weeks before the passage of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, which abolished slavery.

02/20/2026

The early signs of menopause, often referred to as perimenopause, can vary but commonly include irregular menstrual cycles, as the ovaries begin to produce less estrogen. Women may also experience hot flashes, which are sudden feelings of heat that can cause sweating and flushed skin. Night sweats, sleep disturbances, mood swings, and vaginal dryness are also frequent symptoms. Some women report changes in hair and skin, as well as a decrease in libido. It's important for women experiencing these symptoms to consult with a healthcare provider.
Book a free discovery call today at www.harmony.care and let's talk about how we can help you thrive. 🌸
☎️602-888-6883

02/18/2026

The daughter of one of the first African American graduates of Harvard Medical School, Jane Cooke Wright, MD, grew up with a keen interest in healthcare. Her father, Dr. Louis Wright, was also the first Black doctor appointed to a staff position at a municipal hospital in New York City, and in 1929, the city hired him as police surgeon — the first African American to hold that position.
After earning her medical degree, Dr. Wright worked alongside her father at the Harlem Hospital Cancer Research Center, which her father established in 1948. Together, father and daughter researched chemotherapy drugs that led to remissions in patients with leukemia and lymphoma.
In 1952, when her father died of tuberculosis, Wright became the head of the Cancer Research Center at age 33. She created an innovative technique to test the effect of drugs on cancer cells by using patient tissue rather than laboratory mice. She later became director of cancer chemotherapy research at New York University Medical Center, and was also an associate dean at New York Medical College.
The New York Cancer Society elected Wright as its first woman president in 1971. Her research helped transform chemotherapy from a last resort to a viable treatment for cancer.

02/18/2026

When Rebecca Lee Crumpler graduated from the New England Female Medical College in 1864, she became the first Black female physician in the United States. That same year, she began practicing medicine in Boston, but moved to Richmond, Virginia, following the end of the Civil War to help care for freed African Americans. In the late 1860s, she returned to Boston and resumed her practice.
Before she attended college, Dr. Crumpler had worked as a nurse. She wrote in her Book of Medical Discourses, published in 1883, that she “sought every opportunity to relieve the sufferings of others.” The book was one of the first publications about medicine written by an African American.

02/16/2026

Prioritizing mental health is essential for maintaining overall well-being and leading a balanced life. In today's fast-paced world, mental health often takes a backseat to work, social obligations, and other daily pressures. However, neglecting mental health can lead to stress, anxiety, depression, and a host of other issues. To prioritize mental health, it is important to incorporate self-care practices into daily routines, such as regular exercise, adequate sleep, healthy eating, and mindfulness activities like meditation or journaling. Seeking support from friends, family, or mental health professionals when needed is also crucial. By making mental health a priority, individuals can improve their emotional resilience, enhance their quality of life, and foster a more positive outlook on the future. Remember, taking care of your mind is just as important as taking care of your body.
Schedule your discovery call today and let’s start creating a plan that’s as unique as you are.
☎️602-888-6883
💫harmony.care

02/15/2026

Noticing a change in your libido can be an important aspect of understanding your overall health and well-being. Start by reflecting on your usual patterns of sexual interest and activity. If you find yourself feeling less interested in sexual activities or thoughts than usual, or conversely, experiencing heightened desire, this could indicate a change in libido. Factors such as stress, hormonal changes, medications, and lifestyle habits like diet and exercise can all influence your libido. Additionally, emotional and relational dynamics might play a significant role. If you notice a persistent change that concerns you, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare professional to explore potential underlying causes and appropriate solutions. Remember, fluctuations in libido are normal, but understanding the reasons behind these changes can help you maintain a balanced and healthy life.
Book a free discovery call today at www.harmony.care and let's talk about how we can help you thrive. 🌸
☎️602-888-6883

02/15/2026

✨ Ready to commit to your health journey?
Schedule your discovery call today and let’s start creating a plan that’s as unique as you are.
💫harmony.care
☎️602-888-6883

02/14/2026

February often brings conversations about romance, connection, and intimacy. For many women, especially in midlife, this can highlight a disconnect between expectation and
reality. If desire feels different than it once did, it does not mean something is wrong. It often
means your body is asking for a new approach.
Recommended Reading:
💠"Come As You Are" by Emily Nagoski explores the science of female desire and the role
of the nervous system in arousal.
💠"Mating in Captivity" by Esther Perel examines intimacy, autonomy, and erotic
connection within long-term relationships.
These resources help normalize the reality many women experience and remove unnecessary
shame from the conversation around desire.

02/13/2026

During Menopause, the body undergoes significant hormonal changes, particularly in the levels of estrogen and progesterone. These hormonal fluctuations can have a profound impact on mood and emotions. Estrogen, in particular, is known to influence the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in regulating mood and emotional well-being. As estrogen levels decrease, it can lead to symptoms such as mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and even depression. Additionally, menopause can bring about physical changes like hot flashes and sleep disturbances, which can further contribute to emotional distress. Understanding these changes can help in seeking appropriate support and treatment options to manage symptoms effectively.

02/12/2026

What if we stopped treating women’s lives like separate categories?
Health over here.
Career over there.
Motherhood somewhere else.
Personal growth squeezed in last.
The All Things Women Summit (Feb 26–28) brings it all together.
Hosted by Dr. Alicia Newsome, this 3-day virtual experience features 70+ experts speaking into every dimension of women’s lives.
I’m honored to be sharing:
"The Midlife Hormone Shift: How to Navigate Perimenopause and Menopause with Clarity and Confidence"
Wherever you are in your journey — there is something here for you.
Registration link is in the first comment 👇

02/09/2026

Managing stress is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. Chronic stress can lead to a myriad of health issues, including heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and depression. It can also weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections. Beyond physical health, stress can impact mental clarity, decision-making, and emotional resilience, affecting one's ability to function effectively in daily life. By managing stress, individuals can improve their quality of life, enhance productivity, and foster healthier relationships. Techniques such as regular exercise, mindfulness, adequate sleep, and a balanced diet are effective ways to mitigate stress and promote a more balanced and fulfilling life.