We Heal Together: Rituals and Practices for Building Community and Connection

In this uplifting if flawed entry, activist Johnson (Skills in Action) calls on readers to address ancestral trauma and communal pain through spiritual rituals. Drawing from Buddhist tradition, feminist theory, and her own anti-racist work, the author asserts that, since “when any living being suffers, we all suffer,” humans must work toward a more just world for others as part of their own healing. Johnson delves into the link between grief and liberation (releasing unprocessed grief can unburden the soul), finding joy in the midst of suffering, and the importance of learning about one’s ancestors, particularly for readers of color. Spiritual rituals follow each chapter, and include journal prompts (“If I hold trauma in my body from my lineage, where is it showing up and how does it feel?”), yoga practices, and relaxation techniques. While the meditations on the power of community grow repetitive and there’s a surfeit of overly long recollections of retreats she’s led, readers will appreciate the author’s detailed, actionable ritual suggestions and strong social justice principles. The spiritually inclined will find some wisdom here if they’re patient. (Apr.)