In this episode, I explore what it’s like to learn how to trust my body after leaving the church. I talk about why embodied discernment and listening to intuitive signals matter, and how psychological barriers can disconnect us from our bodies. I focus especially on the experiences of Black, Indigenous, and women of color mystics , who often carry additional layers of trauma that make this reconnection more complex. I also invite listeners to reconnect with ancestral wisdom and share practical exercises that have helped me strengthen self-trust and intuition.

Key Takeaways

• Trusting your body is essential for spiritual growth.
• Embodied discernment helps in recognizing intuitive signals.
• Many teachings discourage trusting our bodies.
• Racialized trauma complicates the relationship with intuition.

• Ancestral wisdom is embedded in our bodies.
• Intuitive signals can be confused with trauma responses.
• Self-trust is often undermined by hierarchical systems.
• Meditation is key to developing body awareness.

• Your body carries the memory of survival and wisdom.
• Practical exercises can help reconnect with your intuition.

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Resources

• My Grandmother’s Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Mending of Our Bodies and Hearts by Resmaa Menakem, MSW, LICSW, SEP
• The Pain We Carry: Healing from Complex PTSD for People of Color (The Social Justice Handbook Series) by Natalie Y. Gutiérrez LMFT
• Decolonizing the Body: Healing, Body-Centered Practices for Women of Color to Reclaim Confidence, Dignity, and Self-Worth by Kelsey Blackwell
• Video | Healing Racialized Trauma: A Conversation with Resmaa Menakem and Tara Brach
• Video | Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome by Joy DeGruy (Also has a book with the same title)

Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional mental health, medical, or spiritual advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional for your specific circumstances. The views expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Anekia Nicole and/or A Soulful Rebellion LLC. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact a licensed mental health professional or a crisis hotline in your area.

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From Black Pentecostalism to Mystical Wisdom: Deepening Our Understanding of the Sacred

In this episode, I explore the reclamation of ancestral practices that have often been demonized by the Black church, sharing my personal journey from mystical Christianity to embracing African spirituality. I discuss the deep-rooted connections between African traditions and contemporary spiritual practices, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and honoring these ancestral legacies. I also delve into the challenges of embracing mystical wisdom, the significance of self-trust, and the potential for liberation through understanding one’s spiritual path. The conversation culminates in a call to reclaim Christianity in a way that honors ancestral traditions while fostering personal spiritual growth.

Takeaways

• The importance of reclaiming ancestral practices..

• The practices in the Black church often have deep ancestral roots.

• Many church rituals can be traced back to African traditional religions.

• The concept of divination is prevalent in both African spirituality and church practices.

• The historical context of spiritual practices being demonized.

• Internalized racism surrounding ancestral practices.

• The importance of self-trust in one's spiritual journey is emphasized.

• Exploring spiritual paths without fear.

• Considering a more expansive understanding of spirituality.

You Might Also Be Interested In: Episode 48 | How religious beliefs impact your intuition development

Resources

• Tacky’s Revolt: The Story of an Atlantic Slave Wa by Vincent Brown (A Sample but this an entire book)

• Tacky's Revolt: The Story of an Atlantic Slave War | Vincent Brown with Matthew Parker | YouTube

• Slave Religion: The 'Invisible Institution' in the Antebellum South" by Albert J. Raboteau

• Obeah, Race and Racism: Caribbean Witchcraft in the English Imagination By Eugenia O’Neal
• The Heart of the Buddha's Teaching: Transforming Suffering into Peace, Joy, and Liberation by Thich Nhat Hanh

Join: Sacred Alignment Sanctuary - Good news! Podcast listeners can still join for Free through January 30th.

In this episode of A Soulful Rebellion, I share my personal journey of spiritual awakening and faith deconstruction. I reflect on my upbringing, mystical experiences, and the challenges I've faced while navigating my beliefs. I discuss the importance of creating a supportive community for women of color who are exploring their spirituality outside of traditional religious structures. I also announce a new direction for the podcast, focusing on mystical wisdom, embodied discernment, and spiritual freedom.

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