Welcome to another insightful episode of Embodied Justice, hosted by the phenomenal Dr. Judy Lubin. This week, we’re delving into the healing power of nature with the extraordinary Toyin Ajayi, founder of Outdoorsy Black Women. If you’re ready to explore the intersections of rest, nature, and social justice, you’re in the right place. Toyin Ajayi shares her transformative journey of connecting with nature and the profound impact it has on rest, well-being, and resilience. A beacon for Black women who crave the tranquility of the outdoors, Toyin underscores the vital importance of rest in our lives, especially for those dedicated to social change and racial equity work. Here are three pivotal takeaways from the discussion: Nature Nurtures Patience and Presence: Toyin highlighted that one of the greatest lessons nature imparts is patience. The glacial pace at which trees grow, the gentle flow of rivers – all teach us that we are not in control of everything. This realization is not only humbling but also liberating, especially in the context of social change work where urgency and impatience often reign supreme.[15:42]: And to see value in us, like, working our fingers to the bone, so to speak. And so there’s been sort of like this revolution in the past few years with talk discussions about rest and, Racial Hershey, rest is resistance. And so I just would love to hear how you see nature, being really a part of, a rest practice. Whatever However we might choose to be engaging with nature, really, is like engaging with ourselves because we are nature. But what’s where does nature play or being outdoors play in in in us being able to rest. Creating Safe Outdoor Spaces for Black Women: Through Outdoorsy Black Women, Toyin has been at the helm of creating safe, welcoming spaces for black women to explore and enjoy outdoor activities. Safety concerns, particularly in the face of racial threats, have long kept many black people from embracing the outdoors. Toyin’s efforts are reshaping narratives, dispelling myths about black women’s interest in outdoor adventures, and fostering a thriving community of over 7,000 members.[30:03]: Because people wanna overcomplicate things, and and that tends to deter people. Like, if somebody’s like, well, I I’m not a mountain climber. That’s okay. You don’t have to be a mountain climber. You could literally go for a walk in your neighborhood. And, you know, if you’re fortunate to have trees in your neighborhood, you could take in the trees and maybe even notice what colors they are, how they’ve changed, when the leaves are dropping, taking the fresh air. I say that because I I recognize that different people have access to different outdoor spaces. Mindfulness in Nature: From journaling in the serene embrace of trees to experiencing adrenaline rushes through skydiving, Toyin underscores the value of mindfulness practices rooted in nature. Living in her RV for three years, she cherished the simple joys of walking barefoot, meditating by a river, or simply soaking in the vastness of the ocean – each moment a testament to the healing power of nature.[22:35]: Because you don’t wanna feel like you’re passing the buck for you’re not doing enough. And, you know, I would say with that, it’s a collective effort. Like, recognizing that you may only be we’re all part of and collective, so you can’t change everything. You’re not gonna be the one that changes every single part of this this the system that we are basically combating. But recognizing, you know, you you may have a small part to play, and that’s okay. Do your small part because if everybody does their small part, then we’re gonna be able to affect change. Mhmm.   Take Action: Join the movement with Outdoorsy Black Women and the Center for Urban and Racial Equity by participating in our mindfulness practices and outdoor activities. Explore the healing and restorative power of nature through meditation, journaling, and exhilarating adventures like skydiving and fishing. Discover simple ways to enjoy the outdoors in your urban setting and become part of a community that ensures safety and inclusivity for black women. Visit outdoorsyblackwomen.com to connect and engage with us on social media, and take the first step towards reclaiming your rest, well-being, and a sense of belonging in nature. Together, we can affect change and build a more equitable society. Learn More about Our Guest Toyin Ajayi is a visionary leader and founder of Outdoorsy Black Women, a vibrant community of over 7,000 women dedicated to reconnecting with nature and reshaping the narrative around black women’s presence in outdoor spaces. With a deep passion for adventure and wellness, Toyin has transformed her personal journeys into a movement that emphasizes the healing power of nature, especially for overworked and trauma-affected individuals. Her diverse and exhilarating outdoor experiences, ranging from skydiving to walking barefoot in nature, underline her commitment to promoting holistic well-being. Toyin’s dedication to creating safe, inclusive, and empowering spaces for black women in the outdoors stands as a testament to her leadership and advocacy in advancing racial equity and communal care. Connect With Toyin Website: https://outdoorsyblackwomen.com/about/ On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/outdoorsyblackwomen/

 In the latest episode of the Embodied Justice podcast, hosted by Dr. Judy Lubin, we dive deep into the intricate intersections of personal, political, historical, and imaginative landscapes. Our special guest for this episode is the renowned poet, scholar, and self-described black feminist evangelist and queer black troublemaker, Alexis Pauline Gumbs. Known for her groundbreaking books such as “Undrowned: Black Feminist Lessons from Marine Mammals” and “Dove, Finding Ceremony,” Alexis brings a fresh perspective on resilience, community, and the enduring legacy of black feminism.  The main focus of this episode is the embodied justice program, designed to foster the well-being of black change makers engaged in racial equity and justice work. The program encompasses community-building activities, workshops, and a three-day in-person retreat in Georgia. Alexis Pauline Gumbs sheds light on how the teachings of Audre Lorde and other black feminists have shaped her understanding of survival, resilience, and the holistic approaches to self-care that are essential for sustained activism. Here are three pivotal takeaways from the discussion: Interconnectedness of All Aspects of Life: Alexis emphasizes that black feminism is grounded in the belief that everything is intertwined. This concept challenges the idea that one can be free while others remain oppressed or that one can thrive economically while the planet suffers. For her, and within the framework of black feminism, liberation is holistic and cannot be compartmentalized. [03:40]: I had this thing, and I was like, but here’s the writing, and here’s history, and here’s my emotional experience, and here’s our social transformation. For me, it always has been very intertwined. I have related to my work, to my writing, to my facilitation in a way that just seeks to honor that reality, which has always been my reality. So I think that that’s the reality that black feminism also really uplifts. And I think that’s why learning about black feminism and being a black feminist has resonated so deeply that I call black feminism my spiritual practice because it really is grounded in this idea that everything is intertwined. And when we start to say that you know, I’m thinking about Fannie Lou Hamer. We start to say, like, oh, you can be free over here while other people are oppressed over here. It does not work that way. Listening as an Act of Resistance: The episode delves into the importance of listening—both to ourselves and to others—as a crucial component of social and political movements. Dr. Judy Lubin and Alexis discuss how deep listening can address resistance and aid in healing. Gumbs likens ignoring needs and voices to a “tantrum” and suggests that genuine connection starts with simply sitting on the ground and taking a breath. [23:52]: And they might really need a breath. They’re right. They might really need to be held. They might really feel like they’re not being heard or attended to in the way that they need to. You know, I don’t wanna infantilize the people who are at the center of the backlash and be like, oh, these poor babies who are, you know, and acting incredibly violent legislation. And, you know, like, I I’m, and I, I’m not trying to say, like, there’s not calculated power grabs. People are being manipulated, But I do think that without this kind of pain spiral that many people are in, those who are calculatedly trying to complete a fascist project, right in front of us would not be able to do that. I don’t even separate myself because what did I say? Right? Everything is intertwined. Connection with the Earth: Alexis draws a connection between physical pain and societal issues, underscoring the need for healing through a closer relationship with the Earth. Emphasizing that humanity is a manifestation of the Earth, she advocates for daily grounding practices, such as sitting on grass or near water, to nurture this connection and create a more harmonious world. [12:01]: Now as a black queer and ecofeminist, I’m I’m curious how you describe or contextualize this moment. And I appreciate you lifting up the Combahee River Collective and, like, the legacy of that work decades later and and and how influential it has been. And I’m wondering, like, in this moment, like, how you describe this particular period that we’re living in. I’ve heard it described as, like, this period of multiple crises. And I’m so I’m wondering, like, how your perspective informs, like, the lessons that are we’re being asked to learn as humanity, but also as for for activists and for change makers. All of the things that are happening, I want you to name, like, what you feel are, like, those critical things that are happening right now and what they’re teaching us about change, about how to be in the world, and what we should be listening for.  Take Action: Align with your inner peace and learn how to ground yourself and harness the teachings of Black feminists to evolve through these challenging times. Join the Community to connect with our Embodied Justice initiatives and participate in our workshops and retreats. Be sure to reflect and engage. Explore Alexis Pauline Gumbs’ reflective writing workshops to deepen your connection with ancestral wisdom. Learn More about Our Guest Alexis Pauline Gumbs is a beacon of innovation and resilience in black feminist scholarship and activism. Her work intertwines creative writing, historical documentation, and black feminist theory to imagine and enact new worlds through community and love. Raised in a black feminist household and nurtured in a feminist bookstore, Alexis’s upbringing was steeped in the teachings of influential black feminists like Audre Lorde and Alice Walker. Connect With Alexis On her website: https://www.alexispauline.com/ On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexispauline 

Welcome back to another inspiring episode of “Embodied Justice,” where we unearth the deep connections between the environment, well-being, and social justice. In today’s episode, our host Dr. Judy Lubin has a vibrant conversation with Marcus Bridgewater, also known as the “Garden Marcus.” Marcus, a life coach and motivational speaker, shares powerful insights about how gardening can be more than just a hobby—it can be a pathway to collective well-being and personal growth. In an age where the hustle and bustle of modern life often lead us to neglect our mental and physical health, Marcus’s insights are a breath of fresh air. He explains how gardening not only serves as a therapeutic practice but also teaches us invaluable lessons about patience, resilience, and community. His message is clear: just like a garden, our communities thrive when we nurture every part of them. Marcus uses the metaphor of tending to the berries in a garden to highlight how we should approach our communities and policies. It’s not enough to care for one ‘berry’ while neglecting the growth conditions for the others. Instead, a holistic approach focusing on an environment where everything can thrive is essential. Here are three pivotal takeaways from the discussion: Fostering Collective Growth: Marcus emphasizes the need to address communal and historical wrongs for the betterment of society without excluding any group from the greater good. He implores us to embrace kindness, patience, and positivity in our interactions to uplift humanity as a whole. [04:08]: They’re they were aloof. I found myself a teacher and an administrator at a private preparatory. And while I was there and I’m working with my students and I’m working with my colleagues, all of the studies that I’ve been doing on the side, which is in the wee hours of the night taking notes and reading books and just studying with whoever I could spend time with about mind, body, and spirit, started to formulate into something bigger than itself because I started taking those little gems and using them where I could when I was interacting with people. But in that whole process, I, myself, was losing touch with my own center, my motivation, my ability to wake up in the morning and still feel passionate and enthused about what I was doing. And in my reflection, I started to realize this is a common trait across the world. You know, the 9 to 5 becomes a very difficult thing to go through, and the next thing you know, you need more and more coffee. You need more and more sugar. The Significance of Representation in Gardening: Dr. Judy Lubin highlights the importance of Marcus’s presence as a Black man in the gardening space. Representation is crucial, especially in sectors like gardening and farming, which have deep historical roots and significant cultural impact. Marcus’s journey adds a layer of richness and inclusivity to these often overlooked aspects of heritage. [45:15]: Well, there are so many things to note in this sequence. 1, I have been challenging the idea of black and white, challenging the idea of race in general, especially because as I’ve grown up and I’ve been put into a space where I’m considered a black gardener, I’ve had to reflect on what that means. And as I talked to my grandmother who I lost last year, at 96, reflected on her experience of what it meant to grow up a black woman in our country in the 19 center. I have to question whether or not the idea of black means the same thing universally. So instead, I tend to talk in terms of the Melanation scale because, in fact, the only reality that exists is how much melanin you have in your skin. And the amount of melanin that I have is substantially more than, say, my wife or my son or many of the people I see in the gardening space. So what does that mean? And as you said, it’s I’ve inherited this. I don’t I didn’t get a choice. Gardening as an Analogy for Life and Justice: Through gardening, Marcus draws profound lessons on balancing personal growth with communal stewardship. He contrasts living life for incentives with living for collective growth and emphasizes the importance of making choices that benefit everyone, promoting biodiversity both in our gardens and communities. [43:29]: We don’t appreciate how much we have to offer, And I see that translate into the youth where so many of them feel unappreciated, unwanted as if there is no purpose for them. And I’m like, oh, well, literally, just you being you has purpose, but you have to be applying yourself to something. That’s where purpose comes from. Now why aren’t you applying yourself? That’s a disconnect from your drive. And so then and if I analyze that, more often than not, your drive has been stripped from you and replaced with incentive. Take Action: Engage your neighbors in a communal gardening project. It’s a fantastic way to foster relationships, teach children about nature, and share the fruits (and vegetables) of your labor. Starting a community garden could be just what you need to invigorate both yourself and your community. Like all good things, growing a garden takes time, and so does nurturing your community and personal well-being. Focus on long-term goals and take small, consistent steps toward achieving them. Learn More about Our Guest Marcus Bridgewater, a celebrated life coach, motivational speaker, and philosopher, is renowned for his unique approach to holistic personal development through the art of gardening. Known fondly as “Garden Marcus” on social media platforms, Marcus captivates audiences with his profound insights into the interconnectedness of nature, well-being, and community growth. His journey began with a transformative experience in nurturing sweet potato vines, leading him to discover profound life lessons and principles reflected in the natural world. In addition to being an eloquent storyteller and advocate for kindness, patience, and positivity, Marcus is also the author of the upcoming […]

Welcome to another insightful recap of the latest from the Embodied Justice podcast. In this episode, “Decolonizing the Body” we're joined by Kelsey Blackwell. She delves deep with Dr. Judy Lubin into how societal programming and trauma influence our lives and wellbeing. The discussions are not just intellectually enriching—they are calls to action to reconnect with our bodies and redefine our interactions with the world around us. The episode begins with an exploration of how programming—both societal and personal—dictates our lives in ways we often overlook. For example, Kelsey Blackwell, through her personal narratives and professional insights as a somatic coach, discusses the intense need to come 'home to our body.' This homecoming is more than just a metaphor; it’s about prioritizing our bodily needs and sensations which have been subdued by external expectations and early life conditioning. Here are three pivotal takeaways from the discussion: Trauma and the Body: Kelsey illuminates the intrinsic connection between trauma and bodily response. She emphasizes the importance of being aware of these responses as a step towards healing and ultimately, making a conscious choice to complete the trauma response cycle. [26:59]: "Exactly that. In my own life, this has really manifest because I just got back from a silent retreat in in the woods in Marin, and it's something I do every year... And I just could feel my body saying, like, you are held and you are enough. And it was this connection to the earth." Decolonizing Our Bodies: This powerful dialogue reveals the necessity for internal 'decolonization' to combat the repercussions of oppressive systems like racism and capitalism that significantly impact a person’s self-worth and wellbeing. [47:01]: "You have to have enough of a pause to notice. And the noticing is hard because like you said, our minds are so fast, and our minds are not used to sharing power with our body. So our minds can be this kind of power over entity inside, and they like running the show. And so when we come into the body, they're like, what are we doing? I don't understand this. This is silly. This is stupid. It's not nothing's happening." Individual Accountability in Racial Justice: The conversation takes an essential turn towards personal responsibility in racial justice work. Kelsey encourages individuals to reflect on whether this work aligns with their passion and boundaries, highlighting the significance of pursuing what truly energizes and fulfills oneself. [36:40]: And I think one of the things to kind of hold is, like, rightsizing the work. Because while we can see it's like when you date somebody and there's a lot of potential and you stay in the relationship maybe a little bit longer than you should because there's so much potential. But inside of that potential, like, you're actually suffering. You're acquiescing. You're not, receiving the support you need. You're not getting the time you need, etcetera. Right? So we can kind of, like, live in the potential of something and suffer because we we aren't actually being realistic about what's actually happening. Take Action It’s time to take these insights off the podcast and into our lives. Start by engaging in a simple 'shaking practice' as Kelsey suggests, to connect with and awaken your body’s innate wisdom. Reflect on your commitments and passions—do they align with your actions and boundaries? Remember, transformation begins with a brave step towards aligning your work with your core values and needs. For those who feel called to deepen their practice, consider reaching out to a somatic coach or engage with resources that can facilitate this journey. Next time life throws you a curveball, remember to shake, breathe deeply, and maybe give a little wink to Kelsey's wisdom. Whether settling in for a silent retreat or pushing for policies that honor our dignity and humanity, let's carry forward the courage to embrace our true sensations and boundaries. Here's to shaking up the system, one deep breath at a time! Learn More about Our Guest Kelsey Blackwell is a remarkable somatic coach, author, and speaker dedicated to helping women and gender nonconforming people of color reclaim their confidence and self-worth. Through her work, she offers a transformative approach focused on the decolonization of the body, helping individuals detach from oppressive societal norms to embrace a more liberated existence. Kelsey shares her insights not only through personal coaching sessions but also through speaking engagements and her enlightening writing. Connect With Kelsey On her website: https://www.kelseyblackwell.com/  On instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decolonizingthebody/

In the inaugural episode of “Embodied Justice,” host Dr. Judy Lubin sits down with Michelle C. Johnson, a multifaceted champion for racial equity, social justice, and healing. They delve into the transformative nexus of sacred activism, ancestral healing, and personal practices. This soul-stirring dialogue invites us into a realm where we recognize our interconnectedness and engage in the collective work of building a world infused with justice, and care. The Sacredness of Activism Rekindling Our Collective Responsibility Michelle C. Johnson introduces us to the notion of sacred activism, a powerful blend of spiritual consciousness and social action. Sacred activism transcends traditional activism by rooting collective change in a framework of mutual care and integrity. It recognizes the importance of individual roles in nurturing collective healing. Johnson doesn’t shy away from the formidable: she asks us to engage with the profound, emphasizing the need for practices that call us into healing work and knit us closer together. Sacred activism, she suggests, is our calling to mend the world’s deep-seated wounds with reverence and intention. The Significance of Ancestral Wisdom Honoring Our Lineage for Healing The conversation shifts towards the importance of calling in our ancestors for guidance in today’s quest for justice. Johnson speaks candidly about how ancestral wisdom illuminates our paths and provides strength for the arduous journey. The legacies of our forebears, according to Johnson, come with a mandate to alleviate the suffering on our planet. She underscores the transformative shift in global consciousness triggered by tragedies such as the murder of Trayvon Martin, which reverberates through our collective heart and demands an unwavering commitment to healing past and present traumas. Contemplative Practices in Unsettling Times Fostering Connection and Resilience In an age where relentless urgency often marginalizes rest, Johnson brings up various contemplative practices that serve as lifelines to ourselves and our communities. Meditation, journaling, lighting candles, or simpler acts like gardening signify not just moments of pause but lifelines to something grander. Such practices anchor us amid chaos, allowing for an enriched connection with our ancestral roots and the spirit that pervades us all. Dr. Lubin reflects on this accessibility and highlights that even in the midst of constant assault, these practices offer a healing power that can’t be overstated. To stay within the healing process, Johnson and Dr. Lubin discuss the critical role of dreaming. Visioning a future where another world is possible serves as a counterforce to the pain wrought by systemic oppression and racial trauma. Johnson posits that dwelling in spaces of dreaming and joy is as significant as naming our collective grief and trauma. An Embodied Justice lens is about understanding how we sustain our fight for justice while anchoring ourselves in spaces where joy and sorrow coexist. Creating Spaces for Transformation Navigating Change with Care and Intention As we confront the realities of systemic neglect and trauma, Michelle C. Johnson reminds us that holding space for transformation comes with challenges. The fierce work of change-makers needs nurturing, prompting Johnson to stress the significance of finding solace in nature, community, and personal practices. She discusses the Embodied Justice Program aimed at supporting black change-makers, which embodies this ethos of community care. Creating these spaces enables us to face chaos with resilience, promoting a healing that is generative and transformative. Michelle C. Johnson’s perspective on embodied justice challenges us to weave sacred activism into the fabric of our lives. By acknowledging our shared histories of grief and aspiration for healing, we equip ourselves to craft a reality where justice can truly flourish. Dr. Judy Lubin’s conversation with Johnson compels us to consider how we individually contribute to the collective alleviation of suffering. As we engage with Michelle C. Johnson’s profound insights, let us commit to a practice of sacred activism that celebrates our shared humanity and the dream of a more just and compassionate world. Learn More about Our Guest Michelle’s work focuses on the intersections of justice, spirituality, and healing, aiming to create spaces for individual and collective transformation. She has led dismantling racism work in many settings and two decades of practice as a clinical social worker. Michelle is the author of impactful books such as “Skill in Action: Radicalizing Your Yoga Practice to Create a Just World”, We Heal Together: Rituals and Practices for Building Community and Connection, and “Finding Refuge: Heart Work for Healing Collective Grief.”And she also hosts the “Finding Refuge” podcast, where she engages with a wide array of guests to explore themes of social justice, spiritual healing, and collective liberation. Connect With Michelle On her website: https://www.michellecjohnson.com On instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skillinaction On her podcast: https://www.michellecjohnson.com/finding-refuge-podcast