Sacred Pampering Principles: An African-American Woman's Guide to Self-care and Inner Renewal

by Debrena Jackson Gandy

Originally self-published to enormous acclaim and demand, Sacred Pampering Principles is a beautifully written guide with hundreds of easy and innovative ways for on-the-go women to pamper their bodies and nurture their spirits.

With her holistic approach to filling your life with comfort, balance, and peace, Debrena Jackson Gandy debunks society's myth that doing something for yourself is decadent and selfish. In fact, she says, the joy we gain from treating ourselves whether to a luxuriant bath or to a meditative hour alone is transferred to the people in our lives. When we emerge rejuvenated, others benefit from a patient mother, a fulfilled wife, an effective coworker, a solidly grounded friend.

Written for African-American women, but accessible to women of all races, Sacred Pampering Principles demonstrates not only pampering ideas, but also explains why pampering, for less time and money than one might imagine, is vital to a balanced life.

Genres: Self Help, Spirituality, Nonfiction

256 pages, Paperback

Published September 16, 1998

Reviews

[Nandi Crawford · Rating 5 out of 5]

How to have pampering rituals for the Sister on the go, or not.One of my favorite reads that I still cherish.

[Carla D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I gleaned some tip/suggestions I believe I'd like to use personally - now only to apply what I have received! This is the part of the story that of course is always easier said than done ;-)!

[Haillee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gandy's knowledge and practical steps and guidelines to living a more intentional and pampered life are tools I will take with me into my late-20's and beyond! This book was a blessing.

[Joeall · Rating 1 out of 5]

Sigh* I REALLY wanted to like this book! Even when I almost DNF it earl on I kept going because I really wanted to like it but I just couldn’t get there.

I will acknowledge that “self care” books are “hard” for me to like because as a mental health professional I often don’t walk away with new information. However I do go into books like this one hoping for book recommendations for my clients, alternative perspectives, as well as finding new ways to define things to my clients and if I’m lucky adding it to my personal life.

The author definitely gave actionable steps to navigate self care which from a readers standpoint is enjoyable and why I gave the book the 1 star.

HOWEVER, for ME.. let me say it again.. FOR ME I have (what I can only imagine from the book and what she shared about herself) such a different cultural and spiritual identity than her that I had a hard time digesting much of the material/ action steps. The undertones are applicable around prioritizing self in order to be your best self for others. But the rituals and the mixing of different religious practices (my interpretation of what I read) was distracting for me.

[Gabrielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was exactly what I needed. I was first introduced to Debrena Jackson Gandy through her book All The Joy You Can Stand which I first read in college. This book has done really good points and practical tips that are targeted to Black women. I would recommend this book to any woman that is interested in personal growth and development.

[Adrea Crump · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every black woman needs to read this book!!!! Healing, encouraging, pampering you, learning to love you. Putting you first!!! Pampering is joy!!! Difference between pampering vs grooming. This book offers 12 inspiring ways to enrich your soul and 12 more to Renee your body from the SbW!!! A lot of great tips!! Loved it!! Highlighted abd took notes and put some stuff into action!!

[Graemme Boone · Rating 5 out of 5]

EXCELLENT book! I enjoyed every page of it AND am definitely incorporating some of the self pampering principles into my life. So glad I read this book. It confirmed so many thoughts I was having prior to having read it. I would recommend it to all black women.

[Cydni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely amazing

[Amber Wheatley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book and reading it felt like it was an act of self care in itself. The tips given are practical and do bring great results. It did feel a bit dated in parts but that is unavoidable !

[Shenae Reads ✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exactly what the doctor ordered , I enjoyed this so much, so many tips and constant good advice. Would definitely recommend

[Eve · Rating 2 out of 5]

Did not enjoy this book at all.

[Royal Sistah Ozz · Rating 5 out of 5]

best ever