The BIPOC Rest Group is a weekly space for BIPOC people to learn about and practice rest. Facilitated by Jamila Jackson, this space is inspired by Tricia Hersey’s work in the Nap Ministry and integrates drinking relaxing herbal teas, resting to the healing sounds of meditative drumming, engaging in daydreaming practices, and building a compassionate community that truly feels like safe family.
BIPOC (Black Indigenous and people of color) have historically had our imagination, creativity, and physical labor exploited in this country and many others. We need to be given the space, time and support to access rest. This is why we gather in The BIPOC Rest Group at Make-It Springfield.
Accessing rest is nearly impossible for many people. We live in a culture that values profit over people and requires us to work without much or any time to rest. In addition to that, many of us use work as a way to cope with being too tired or weighed down by stress or trauma. This is why spaces to learn about and practice ways to rest is essential.
A note from Jamila:
Our spring rest group really was life changing. I’m excited to introduce a new series of the BIPOC Rest Group: daydreaming with horses.
Horse’s presence encourages a deep alignment with our souls, and they invite us to honor our deep feelings and connect to our own rhythms amidst a busy world. I’ve had the privilege of resting with horses who have laid down beside me, softening into trust, daydreaming, relaxation, and the beauty of being fully present.
You may or may not know that in my work outside of Make-It Springfield I teach meditation and working therapeutically with horses. Horses have been my teachers, guiding me in ways that go beyond words. They’ve shown me how to rest, how to be present, and how to reconnect with the lost parts of myself.
That’s why I’m excited to announce a new 3-part rest series focused on the teachings of horses. In this series I will use storytelling, guided daydreaming, and the soothing sounds of the drum to guide you into the dreamSpace. Each session will feature a story about a different horse that has guided me into deep rest. Guided by our imaginations and collaborating with the image and energy of the horses from my stories, we will explore how horses can carry us across inner landscapes of rest and healing.
The group will run for the first three Wednesdays in December. 6-7:30pm December 4th, 11th and 18th at Make-It Springfield (286 Bridge Street)
