Sounds of SAND

Rune Hjarnø Rasmussen, a historian of religion with a PhD from Uppsala University, dives into the fascinating world of Nordic animism. He discusses the vital connection between ancestral traditions and modern environmental activism. Rune emphasizes the importance of decolonizing perspectives to revive indigenous practices amid contemporary challenges. Listeners learn about the emotional ties to ancestry, the role of reciprocity in spiritual practices, and how animism can offer solutions to issues like isolation and polarization in today's society.

Wendy Elisheva Somerson, a non-binary Jewish somatic healer and activist, discusses their new book on anti-Zionist Jewish healing. They delve into the impact of Zionism on Jewish historical trauma and advocate for healing practices that acknowledge both personal and communal struggles. The conversation highlights the intertwining of activism and spirituality, emphasizing solidarity with marginalized communities. Somerson also shares somatic practices to process heavy emotions and promote resilience, fostering a hopeful vision for a liberated future.

Join Aboriginal elders Uncle Paul Callaghan and Uncle Paul Gordon as they share profound insights into their cultures. They discuss the significance of Dreamtime stories and the deep connection between identity and land. The conversation highlights the importance of communal relationships over individualism, advocating for respect for nature and environmental stewardship. They also emphasize values like love and sharing, urging listeners to embrace compassion in their lives.

In this enlightening conversation, Abigail Rose Clarke, a somatic educator and author of Returning Home to Our Bodies, unpacks the profound connection between our bodies and the world. She discusses embodiment as a path toward systemic change, embracing healthy boundaries, and the potential for our bodies to guide us in navigating pain and healing. Abigail critiques the wellness industry while promoting a holistic understanding of human emotions and relationships. Get ready for insights on redefining hope and upcoming projects like the Body Oracle tarot deck!

Join Funie Hsu/Chhî, an Associate Professor of American Studies from a Taiwanese-American background, and Rev. Duncan Ryuken Williams, a renowned Buddhist scholar and ordained priest, for a compelling discussion on Buddhism's role in social change. They explore transforming grief into connection, especially in response to racially motivated violence affecting Asian American communities. Their insights challenge traditional Western perspectives on Buddhism, emphasizing resilience, community, and the need for inclusivity within spiritual environments.

Elizabeth Philipose, PhD, an expert in transformational arts and a guide in decolonial wellness, shares profound insights on healing societal and personal traumas. She discusses how colonialism has shaped our understanding of wellness and challenges in contemporary spiritual communities. The conversation touches on embodiment practices, the interconnection of spirituality and social justice, and how mindfulness can foster genuine change. Elizabeth invites listeners to reflect on their own journeys while promoting a holistic approach to wellness and empowerment.

Join Bayo Akomolafe, a posthumanist thinker and founder of The Emergence Network, alongside Sophie Strand, a writer blending spirituality and ecology. They dive into the concept of new gods emerging from our collective trauma and the significance of mispronunciation in shaping identity. Their discussion uncovers the resilience of nature, exploring the evolutionary adaptability of nematodes and invasive species. They emphasize relationality and the value of diversity, urging us to embrace transformation amid chaos.

Renowned civil rights scholar john a. powell, director of the Othering & Belonging Institute, shares transformative ideas on building connections across differences. He discusses how to shift the 'us versus them' mindset, using personal stories to illustrate the emotional impacts of estrangement and the healing power of community. The conversation touches on the importance of understanding historical wounds, finding hope amid challenges, and the need for empathy in conflicts like the Israeli-Palestinian divide.

Linda Thai, a trauma therapist specializing in intergenerational impacts of historical trauma, and Jungwon Kim, an award-winning writer focused on human rights, share profound insights into the effects of war and trauma on identity and communities. They discuss the psychological repercussions faced by descendants of trauma survivors, the role of culturally informed healing practices, and the importance of narrative justice. Highlighting the significance of community rituals and emotional expression, the conversation emphasizes pathways for communal healing and resilience.

John J. Prendergast, a spiritual teacher and retired psychotherapist, dives deep into the art of 'Listening from Silence.' He emphasizes the transformative power of deep listening and the journey toward heartfelt writing. Exploring the significance of community in spiritual growth, John discusses the balance between individual and collective consciousness. He also addresses how we can creatively respond to suffering and cultivate inner authority in our spiritual journeys. Listeners are encouraged to embrace silence for deeper understanding and connection.