Black + Indigenous Wellness Initiative: Embracing Our Truths, Healing Our Community
In a world where the wellness narrative often excludes the unique experiences of Black, Indigenous, and racialized communities, this initiative seeks to reclaim and re-imagine what wellness looks like. Inspired by the profound teachings of black and indigenous authors & educators, our mission is to create a wellness movement that is rooted in the truths and experiences of Black, Indigenous, and racialized individuals. We strive to decolonize wellness, moving away from mainstream, Eurocentric models, and towards practices that resonate with our heritage, culture, and individual needs.
Our vision is a world where Black + Indigenous wellness is recognized, celebrated, and integrated into everyday life. We aim to create spaces where individuals can explore wellness in a way that is empowering, healing, and affirming of their identity.
Key Principles:
Authenticity and Vulnerability: With a deep belief in the power of truth, we encourage individuals to embrace their authentic selves and share their stories with vulnerability and courage.
Self-Care as an Act of Political Warfare: Inspired by Audre Lorde's teaching that caring for oneself is not self-indulgence but an act of political warfare, we promote self-care as a vital tool for empowerment and resistance against systemic inequalities.
Decolonizing Wellness Practices: We commit to exploring and integrating wellness practices that honor African, Afro-diasporic, and Indigenous traditions, moving away from Western-centric perspectives.
Community Healing: Recognizing the interconnectedness of our struggles and wellness, we foster community spaces that support collective healing and upliftment.
Educational Empowerment: Through workshops, talks, and resources, we educate our community about holistic health practices, mental health, and the importance of nurturing the body, mind, and spirit.
What this looks like:
Wellness Workshops and Retreats: Organize workshops and retreats that focus on various aspects of wellness, including mental health, physical health, and spiritual practices, rooted in Black & Indigenous traditions.
Community Healing Circles: Regular community circles guided by Black teachers, offering a safe space for sharing, healing, and connecting.
Educational Series: A series of talks, seminars, and resources that explore themes from the work of Black and Indgenous scholars and elders, connecting them to contemporary wellness practices.
Mentorship and Support Networks: Establish mentorship programs and support networks that empower individuals through shared experiences and guidance.
Collaborations with Black Wellness Practitioners: Partner with Black + Indigenous wellness practitioners to offer diverse and culturally relevant wellness services.
Our Black + Indigenous Wellness initiative is more than a program; it's a movement towards reclaiming our narratives, healing our traumas, and empowering ourselves through wellness practices that honor our truths and identities. We not only pay homage to our cultural heritage but also pave the way for a future where true collective care and wellness is understood, embraced, and celebrated.
We look forward to you joining us.
-Siha
Founder, Yellow Mat Wellness Collective
