Introduction
Starting a healing journey can feel daunting. The first steps are often filled with both excitement and hesitation-excitement at the possibility of positive change and a richer connection to oneself, and hesitation in not knowing where to begin. This is where the concept of "Foundations" comes into play. In Kumwe Circle, the first monthly theme is "Foundations," a grounding step that helps participants begin their journey with intention, clarity, and support. Foundations are not just the starting point but the essential elements that will anchor participants as they grow. In Kumwe, these practices are rooted in Afro-positive principles and a relational philosophy of being, creating a culturally resonant space for Black women to deepen self-understanding and community connection.
What Are the Foundations of Healing?
Foundations refer to the essential practices, mindsets, and perspectives that make healing both intentional and sustainable. In Kumwe, Foundations involve learning to engage with oneself in meaningful ways, creating a space for participants to connect to their core values, stories, and unique experiences. This approach is deeply influenced by the African philosophy of Kuba - Kubaho - Kubana-to be, to be here/now, to be with-which reminds us that healing is a continual process of coming back to ourselves, to the present, and to the relationships we hold dear.
These foundational practices encourage a mindset of curiosity and openness, which allows participants to explore their own narratives with compassion rather than judgment. Foundations are not about "fixing" oneself but about understanding the roots of who we are. As Toni Morrison once said, "You are your best thing." This belief in our inherent worth and potential is at the heart of Kumwe.
Key Practices in Kumwe's Foundations Module
The Foundations module in Kumwe is structured to help participants connect deeply with themselves and others in ways that feel resonant and affirming. Here are a few key practices introduced during this phase:
- Recipes for Being: This practice encourages participants to intentionally choose and cultivate the qualities they want to embody. Rather than focusing solely on goals, Recipes for Being is about nurturing presence, kindness, or resilience-qualities that support a steady foundation for growth.
- Curating Your Sacred Ingredients: Participants identify objects, memories, or practices that evoke a sense of the sacred in their lives. By intentionally surrounding themselves with these sacred elements, they create a supportive environment that aligns with their journey. These could be family heirlooms, affirmations, or routines that connect them to their culture, values, and spirit.
- Kuba - Kubaho - Kubana: Grounded in the African philosophy of being, participants practice Kuba (to be), Kubaho (to be here/now), and Kubana (to be with). These principles encourage presence and awareness, helping members explore their relationship to themselves, their community, and the world.
Why Foundations Matter in Healing
Foundations are essential because they create a stable base that participants can return to whenever they feel uncertain or overwhelmed. Healing isn't linear; it's a journey with moments of clarity, but also times of doubt or emotional upheaval. By focusing on foundational practices, participants learn how to remain grounded and resilient, even in challenging times.
Research supports this approach, showing that grounding practices help reduce stress and build resilience (Shapiro, 2020). When individuals have a strong foundation, they are better able to navigate life's inevitable challenges with grace and a sense of inner strength. Kumwe's Foundations module prioritizes this stability, allowing participants to establish habits, routines, and ways of thinking that empower them throughout their journey. Setting Intentions and Creating Sacred Space
At the heart of any healing journey is intention. Setting intentions is more than simply identifying goals; it's about aligning with one's core values and aspirations. Kumwe encourages participants to ask themselves, "If the change I wanted had occurred, what would have changed, and how would I recognize it? What would be different?" and "What is in my way?" Creating a sacred space is an integral part of this intention-setting. Sacred spaces are personal and unique-these could be specific times of day, corners in one's home, or even mental spaces where participants feel grounded. Kumwe members learn to notice the spaces they move through daily, the objects they interact with, and the moments that feel different or special. Paying attention to these everyday rituals helps cultivate an ongoing connection to what feels sacred, reminding members that healing is woven into the fabric of their daily lives.
Building Foundations for Living
Foundations aren't just for the start of the healing journey; they're tools for dynamic, active, and creative engagement with the world. In Kumwe, members are encouraged to revisit these practices regularly, deepening their engagement with themselves and their community. This cycle of returning to foundational principles keeps participants grounded in their values and connected to their goals, even as those goals evolve. Over time, participants often notice a shift: they feel more present, more connected, and more aligned with their inner resources. The practices introduced in Foundations become second nature, forming a toolkit for living that members can draw on in any circumstance.
Conclusion
Embracing Foundations in Kumwe is about beginning with intention and cultivating self-understanding and community connection. By grounding oneself in culturally rooted practices and creating spaces that reflect one's unique path, healing becomes an empowering and transformative journey. For those beginning with Kumwe, this Foundations module offers both a starting point and a lasting anchor. In Kumwe, healing is a shared journey, and each participant brings their unique story to the circle. By embracing foundational practices, participants not only support their own growth but also contribute to the collective strength of the community. As the African proverb goes, "If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together." Kumwe offers a space to go far-together, grounded in the values, practices, and connections that make healing a lifelong journey.
References:
- Shapiro, S. (2020). Mindfulness and Well-Being: The Role of Grounding Practices. Journal of Positive Psychology, 15(4), 450-460.
- Morrison, T. (2000). Beloved. Vintage Books.
Lisa Ndejuru
