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Books on emotional trauma, racial trauma, and holistic healing

Sarah Jones

Mar 19, 2023

Books on emotional trauma, racial trauma, and holistic healing specifically for Black, Indigenous, and women of color

Here’s a curated list of books on emotional trauma, racial trauma, and holistic healing specifically for Black, Indigenous, and women of color navigating their healing journey:

Books on Emotional Trauma & Healing

  1. "Finding Me" – Viola Davis

    • A deeply personal memoir about overcoming childhood trauma, self-discovery, and the power of healing.

  2. "Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself" – Nedra Glover Tawwab

    • A practical guide to setting boundaries, healing from emotional wounds, and prioritizing self-care.

  3. "Rising Strong: How the Ability to Reset Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead" – Brené Brown

    • Explores how to rise from failure, disappointment, and trauma with resilience and self-compassion.

  4. "Healing the Shame That Binds You" – John Bradshaw

    • Examines how toxic shame contributes to emotional trauma and provides techniques for breaking free.

  5. "Homecoming: Overcome Fear and Trauma to Reclaim Your Whole, Authentic Self" – Thema Bryant, Ph.D.

    • Written by a Black psychologist, this book guides women in overcoming fear, trauma, and reclaiming their authentic self.


Books on Racial Trauma & Ancestral Healing

  1. "My Grandmother’s Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending Our Hearts and Bodies" – Resmaa Menakem

    • Addresses how racial trauma is stored in the body and provides somatic healing practices.

  2. "The Racial Healing Handbook: Practical Activities to Help You Challenge Privilege, Confront Systemic Racism & Engage in Collective Healing" – Anneliese A. Singh, Ph.D.

    • A workbook designed for self-reflection and healing from racial trauma.

  3. "Decolonizing Trauma Work: Indigenous Stories and Strategies" – Renee Linklater

    • Discusses trauma healing within Indigenous communities through storytelling and cultural practices.

  4. "Post-Traumatic Slave Syndrome: America’s Legacy of Enduring Injury and Healing" – Dr. Joy DeGruy

    • Explores the psychological and emotional impact of generational trauma in Black communities and how to heal.

  5. "The Inner Work of Racial Justice: Healing Ourselves and Transforming Our Communities Through Mindfulness" – Rhonda V. Magee

    • A mindfulness-based approach to healing racial trauma and fostering resilience.


Books on Holistic Healing & Mind-Body Wellness

  1. "Sacred Woman: A Guide to Healing the Feminine Body, Mind, and Spirit" – Queen Afua

    • A transformative guide that blends spiritual and physical healing for Black women.

  2. "Rest is Resistance: A Manifesto" – Tricia Hersey

    • Advocates for reclaiming rest as a radical healing practice, especially for Black women.

  3. "Radiant Rest: Yoga Nidra for Deep Relaxation and Awakened Clarity" – Tracee Stanley

    • Explores deep relaxation and meditation as tools for healing trauma and burnout.

  4. "Jambalaya: The Natural Woman’s Book of Personal Charms and Practical Rituals" – Luisah Teish

    • A blend of African spiritual traditions, storytelling, and rituals for self-discovery and healing.

  5. "Becoming Supernatural: How Common People Are Doing the Uncommon" – Dr. Joe Dispenza

    • A science-backed look at how meditation and energy work can transform mental and physical health.

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