Exhale | A Rest Day for Black Women Sponsored by BMO x Watson Institute
There's so much that we carry every day, and sometimes it's nice to have a few hours where we can simply sit down, connect, and enjoy ourselves.
I'm bringing together something close to my heart, and I'd love for you to be part of it.
Exhale. is a free day of rest and wellness created with Black women, especially neurodivergent Black women, in mind. All are welcome.
This is an opportunity to slow down, enjoy meaningful conversations, get creative, and spend time in community without the pressure to do anything in particular.
What to Expect
Movement with Jasmine
Ease into the day with a movement session led by Jasmine from Community Roots Fitness, our community partner. Participate in whatever way feels comfortable for you.
A Conversation About Rest, Joy & Making Room for Yourself
Join Ashley Leggs and me for a fireside conversation about receiving support, reconnecting with ourselves, and making room for rest and joy beyond our everyday responsibilities. Ashley is the founder of AshMedia Network and host of Slay Girl Slay.
A Song & a Moment to Yourself
Listen, write, doodle, or simply sit with a song. Optional reflection prompts will be available, with no expectation to share. Scan the playlist’s QR code to keep listening at home whenever you’d like a moment to yourself.
Creativity & Connection
Enjoy adult coloring, an interactive affirmation wall where you can leave words of encouragement, and opportunities to connect with others throughout the day.
Time to Rest
Take a break whenever you need one. A dedicated Sensory Reset Room will offer a quiet space away from conversation and activity. Every in-person guest will have a cozy blanket waiting at their seat to use during the event and take home afterward.
Food, Refreshments & Wellness Resources
Light refreshments will be available when you arrive, with lunch served at 12:15 PM. Wellness resources will also be available to explore at your own pace.
The Flow of the Day
All times Central.
10:00–10:20 AM · Arrive, Enjoy Light Refreshments & Settle In
10:20–10:30 AM · Welcome to Exhale
10:30–11:00 AM · Movement with Jasmine
11:00–11:15 AM · A Little Breathing Room
11:15 AM–12:15 PM · Fireside Conversation with Ashley Leggs
12:15–1:00 PM · Lunch & Connection
1:00–2:40 PM · Time to Make Your Own
2:40–3:00 PM · A Gentle Close
The afternoon offers time for music and reflection, coloring, the affirmation wall, wellness resources, and connection. The Sensory Reset Room is available throughout the event.
Take breaks whenever you need them and participate as much or as little as you’d like. There’s no expectation to do it all.
Joining Virtually?
Selected sessions will be livestreamed for guests attending from home.
All registered virtual attendees will automatically be entered into a random drawing for one of three Exhale blankets. No additional steps are required.
Winners will be contacted after the event, and giveaway eligibility and shipping details will be shared before the drawing.
Event Details
Saturday, November 14, 2026
10:00 AM–3:00 PM CT
i.c. stars | 750 N Orleans St, Suite 500, Chicago, IL
In-person and virtual attendance
Free registration