Aging Abroad in Uruguay with Tiandra Burns
SEASON 7 EPISODE 9 |Flourish in the Foreign - Black Women Living & Thriving Abroad
Tiandra Burns returns to the show to share what she’s been up to since our last conversation. She reflects on residing in Montevideo for seven years, recounts her transformative experiences of living abroad, being laid off, and finding her identity after a significant relationship ended.
Meet Tiandra
Tiandra Burns has found her home in Uruguay. As a writer and immigrant, she explores the experience of living abroad through the lens of wellness. Rooted in spiritual practices like yoga and meditation, she shares reflections on resilience, balance, and what it means to create a sense of home wherever you are.
Connect with Tiandra
What has changed for you since your last appearance on the podcast?
I'm single now. My ex has also moved back to the States, and I am officially living here with no one knowing me circa 2017. I have changed jobs, though I am still writing. I have picked up a few new hobbies (skating/watercoloring).
How do you feel about aging abroad?
Honestly, I feel good about it. The only difference now is that I have to be extra prepared and proactive about my health as I am not near my family.
Reflections on healthcare, beauty, caring for aging parents, empty nesting, or aging transitions?
The one thing that makes me feel at ease about aging abroad is access to proper healthcare. Knowing that there is support for women's health here allows me not to worry so much. I often think about how my body will change over time (aches and pains). I think about mobility, the risk of cancer, and other types of health issues. But I feel if I can be proactive and also talk to older women who are going through certain stages of aging, I will be better prepared, and it won't feel as daunting.
What’s your personal philosophy on aging gracefully?
I always say I want to age with grace. Meaning I want to take it in stride. Aging is natural, and it is a blessing to live a long life. Being present in every stage of my life allows me to be okay with the passing of time and all the changes that come with it. Aging gracefully to me means not holding on so tightly to my youth or my looks and understanding that the body will change, my voice will change, and my capabilities will change. But I want to be excited to see new stages in life and to see how I grow in them. I don't want to be so worried about the future that I miss out on the now.
This Episode Covers:
Career Aspirations and Aging Abroad
The Importance of Community
Building a Multicultural Community
The Struggle of Getting Laid Off Abroad
Navigating Unemployment and Job Search
Embracing the Soft Life
Challenges and Misconceptions of Living Abroad
Episode Credits:
Christine Job-Creator & Host
Zachary Higgs-Theme Music
Subscribe to the Substack:https://christinejob.substack.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these next:
International Development & Raising Teenagers Abroad with Deborah David in Ecuador
Navigating Identity and Wellness from Suriname to Spain with Jo-Ann With
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