Ep. 105 As world-class creatives, Alexa _ Edreys share their perspective on redefining the concept of stillness from a cultural standpoint as well as correcting generational trauma through intentional practices.The husband-wife team delve into the unique challenges faced by people of color when it comes to embracing stillness and quietude, which are often associated with negative connotations from childhood. They discuss the need to reclaim these states as healthy and necessary for personal regulation in a tumultuous world. Alexa also touches upon the generational trauma particularly related to labor and creativity, and the importance of mindful communication with children.The conversation also explores the idea of identity, as the guests reflect on their experiences of code-switching and the external pressures to conform to societal expectations of blackness. They contemplate the impact of such narratives on mental health and the complexities of negotiating one's authenticity in various spaces.Key Takeaways:

Mindfulness and stillness can be misconstrued within Black community due to historical associations with negativity.

Parenting is a critical area where mindfulness can be integrated, ensuring open communication and understanding the emotional states of children.

Identity and authenticity are central to the conversation, examining how individuals often have to navigate code-switching and societal pressures.

Notable Quotes:

"You can see me now. You can see me ten years down the line. My principles are my principles." - Alexa Wajed

"All I can do is help you heal... All I can do is show you that healing is possible." - Kelly Marie

Resources:

Find Alexa and Adris Wajed on Instagram: @eatoffart

Email Kelly Marie: [email protected]

Mental Health Resources:

211: National service for local resources (via phone or online).

988: National helpline for immediate mental health support.

🎙️ Hosted by Coach Kelly Marie, founder of Front Seat Life LLC📲 Instagram @thefrontseatlife FB @thefrontseatlife🎧 Produced & edited by JazzCast Pros🔗 Click Here to rate & review on Apple Podcasts🚀 Rate & Share this Podcast from Spotify🔐 Add this show to your collection on Pandora.💪 Support the Show with a one-time donation on PayPal

Chapters:0:00:00 Intro to topic of mindfulness and blackness0:02:20 Negative connotations of quietness and stillness in black upbringing0:03:16 Unlearning the association of quietness and stillness with trouble0:04:13 The importance of breathing and meditation for regulating oneself0:05:02 Unlearning trauma and generational patterns0:06:01 Trauma of gardening and the loss of healing through working with the land0:07:23 Burden of creativity and entrepreneurship on black individuals and families0:08:28 Pressure to conform to Eurocentric beauty standards in the workplace0:09:25 Challenging gender norms and societal expectations with personal appearance0:11:14 Standing on principles and being unapologetically oneself0:11:58 Threatening to show up as a "black mom" to protect her child0:13:18 Embracing her true self and the duality of blackness0:15:45 The need to adapt and code-switch from an early age0:17:37 Checking in with children and transparent communication0:19:20 Helping children heal and accepting them as they are0:21:06 Planting the seed of hope for a better future0:22:41 Mindfulness as a tool to navigate life0:22:47 Mindfulness is a moment of full control.0:23:01 Guided meditation: Becoming the mountain.0:24:52 Gratitude and appreciation for each other.0:25:34 Mental health and movement in Season 7.0:26:26 Resources for those in need.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices