Content note: this story revolves around racial trauma and has mention of trauma, anti-Asian racism, colourism and references to statistics on suicide and self harm. Whilst not discussed in detail, we ask that you go gently, surround yourself with some comforts, or come back to this at a time that feels okay for you.

What are the impacts of racism when it comes to our minds, bodies and spiritual wellbeing? In today's story, we hear from FBi presenter Maleeka Gazula (Up For It!) as she maps her ongoing journey and reckonings with how the racism and colourism she has long-experienced has had a profound impact on her mental and physical health. Alongside discussing her own increased awareness and resilience; she spoke to music therapist, founder of Shapes and Sounds and Asian-Australian mental health advocate Asami Koike. They bring together how broader systems of injustice play out in interpersonal relationships, trauma and healing - and the ways we can move towards a type of care that recognises the intricacies of being a racialised person, and how we find our own versions of resilience and regulation.

If this conversation brought up some heavy, uncomfortable or distressing topics, some resources can be found below:

Qlife 1800 184 527
BeyondBlue 1300 22 4636
Lifeline 13 11 14
Safe Haven 02 9113 2981
Our Directory - Connecting Mob, Māori & BIPOC with mental health and wellbeing support
Asian Australian Mental Health Directory
Shakti South Asian Practitioner List

This episode was produced and hosted by Maleeka Gazula. Additional production, editing and sound design by Shareeka Helaluddin.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode 128: Racial Trauma, An Embodied Response (with Maleeka Gazula & Asami Koike)