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Flower: Redwood

Blood memory can be described by your ancestral and genetic connection to language, songs, spirituality, and teachings. Your ancestors are in you all the time and everything they experienced is in you. And you have an opportunity to heal and grow in each moment.  This week we are joined by Arella Trustman M.A, a member of the Walker River Paiute Tribe of Nevada who shares how we can move from victim to survivor to hero. It’s not always linear, but it is possible. 

The Gratitude Blooming theme of strength is represented by the redwood. The digital art bridges a whimsical interpretation of a redwood illuminated by a full moon with an owl sitting on a series of ascending triangles. 

Arella Trustman M.A received her Master’s degree from NYU in Psychology with a Clinical focus in May of 2021.  Her thesis, titled, "Healing Indigenous Historical Trauma: Perspectives of Resilience, Resistance, and Decolonization of Treatment” is an exhaustive review from the novel perspective of alternative and resilient responses to histories of oppression.  Her thesis proposed decolonization of mental health diagnosis and treatment with a strengths-based approach and integration of traditional healing practices.  Arella has shifted professionally into Web3 where she leverages her skills to build communities and educate individuals in the space about mental health.  On the side, Arella continues to do consulting work for Stewart Indian School in Carson City, NV and has contributed materials on Indigenous Historical Trauma for their cultural center and a 4th grade level mini-textbook on Nevada Native History for teachers. 

https://twitter.com/arella_eth

https://www.instagram.com/uh_ray_luh/?hl=en

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Learn more about our co-hosts and special guest:

Belinda Liu | Hestia Retreat Centers

Omar Brownson | Trickster's Guide to Immortality on Substack

Dr. Paul Wang | The Dao Center

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