Vanessa Williams Shares 5 Ways She Stays Joyful and Stress-Free
Unabashedly brave, Vanessa Williams is always game for new adventures — professionally, personally, and spiritually. “At this stage in life, it’s all about doing things I’ve never done,” the mother of four says with a smile. “It’s the challenges that excite me most and always give me a boost of energy and confidence.”
These days, Williams’ life sees no shortage of excitement. Not only does she pour her heart into building a happy home for her family, she’s also taking on new projects professionally, with her own clothing line, Vanessa Williams for HSN, an upcoming children’s book and a role in a production of City of Angels in London. “It’s so rewarding!” she shares of each experience. “For me, life is all about being unafraid to take chances. You never know what great things are in store!” Here, Williams shares tips for staying positive, grounded, and joy-filled — no matter what life throws your way.
Melt a menopot with low-calorie treats.
“My new kick is shredded zucchini that looks like spaghetti,” Williams explains of her latest healthy meal pick. “With some good sauce and Parmesan cheese, you feel like you’re eating pasta — but you’re not!” Her other go-to’s? “Breakfast burritos with salsa or oatmeal,” she shares. “Once a week, I’ll also do a roast chicken on top of arugula. Those always satisfy any cravings I have!”
Try a self-massage.
“I got turned on to the jade roller a year ago, and I love it!” Vanessa says. “I use it each morning, rolling it up my chin and cheeks, over my forehead and under my eyes. It really does stimulate my skin, remove puffiness, and make me feel so refreshed!”
Feed your soul with the power of prayer.
“I’m fortunate enough to have been given the gift of faith, which has helped me through every aspect of life,” Williams explains. “I pray to God and my ancestors and my guides, and to everyone who has been with me along my journey. As far as what I pray for, it depends on what I want or need at that particular moment: Whether it’s guidance, whether it’s ‘show me the way’ or whether it’s protection for my children, my faith is something that I always come back to — and it never fails to help me through whatever challenges or obstacles I’m facing!”
Spend time with girlfriends.
“Whenever I’m stressed, I love to spend time with my girlfriends over a glass of wine,” Williams shares. “It’s a time to catch up on everyone’s life and see where they are, and to share what’s going on in mine. It’s my time to just relax! I relate it to having a sewing bee before the turn of the 20th century. Women used to have these activities that they would do separately from men because it gave them a chance to talk and be themselves. That’s the special thing about having a circle of women: It brings so much peace!”
Ask for help.
“As women, we are a community,” Vanessa notes. “So don’t be afraid to ask for advice or help, and to look for a mentor. I’ve learned that there are many people who are willing to be teachers to help you along if you ask. On this Earth, we have setbacks, struggles and obstacles, but I think I’m here to learn how to keep moving ahead. You have to be able to say, ‘What is this experience teaching me?’ so you can move through it and move on in your life. Avoiding something or denying it won’t get you anywhere— but if you learn from it, you can find so much freedom on the other side.”
