For the nation—and for Black folks in particular—the month of April has been, well, a lot.
Between watching with bated breath for the verdict in the Chauvin trial, to hearing consistent news stories of Black bodies being harmed at the hands of the police, many people are experiencing high levels of stress, anxiety or overwhelm.
As a therapist and a healer, I have seen the psychological, physiological, and mental-emotional effects of continually witnessing Black pain. Why is this important? Because it can (and does) have a “weathering” effect, which often shows up in the mind (via disempowered thinking) but also in the body (via dysregulated emotions and nervous system functioning).
In that same vein, I know another truth: it is important to intentionally make room for Black joy in the body.
What do I mean?
Simply put, joy has an energy to it. And when it comes to healing and wholeness, allowing ourselves the space, license, or permission to experience joy can be revolutionary.
The old saying that “April showers bring May flowers” comes to mind.
How might our lives—and our relationships—change if we took small moments to see, feel, or imagine April showers of Black joy raining down…
How would we experience that in on our bodies?
What old hurts or wounds could we release?
What healing (i.e., natural return to wholeness) would then be possible?
In the midst of experiencing pain or challenge, allowing ourselves this gift is a way to prepare the soil of our lives…for even more joy, happiness, and freedom.
This month, let our April showers be of Black joy pouring down to wash away the old and usher in the new.
As the old song by Loose Ends goes…You Can’t Stop the Rain.
Wishing you and yours true peace.
Warm regards,
Nasir
True Peace Counseling & Wellness