A wellbeing group is aiming to connect people by using using traditional African ceremony and philosophy.
The group called Ubuntu describes an African philosophy meaning "I am Because You Are", that is no human being exists in isolation. This is based on an understanding that people are interconnected and interdependent.
The Liverpool Black Wellbeing Collective: Ubuntu's aim is to offer a monthly wellbeing circle for anyone who identifies as Black, brown, mixed race or as a person of colour.
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Counsellor and Psychotherapist Alan Crawford from Toxteth told the ECHO: "The philosophy of Ubuntu inspired me to start a Wellbeing Collective built on the principle that through togetherness, connection and community we can heal and thrive, as individuals, also as a community. Some people might be upset or triggered by a group created for individuals from ethnic minority backgrounds.
"I would ask them to understand this isn't meant to exclude, but to create a safe space for people with specific shared life experiences and cultural heritage. Our group is a safe space for 'people of colour' to heal, grow and support each other".
During wellbeing circles they use African drumming, pour libation (usually water, an ancient practice honouring the earth and ancestors), a guided meditation and then a seated yoga routine. The circle opens for anyone to talk, to get anything off their chest, ask for support or offer words of support or inspiration.
This allows people the opportunity to be heard, feeling lighter, connected and nourished. It offers support, connection and community and is holistic for people to leave feeling nurtured mentally, physically and spiritually.
Ubuntu member Anna said: "I came for the first time last year not knowing what to expect. What I found was a group of people, some I knew, some new to me, in a relaxed space, a safe space to talk, listen and just to be.
"In today's hectic world, especially post covid, many of us feel a loss of connection. Our communities have been ripped apart, technology replaced conversation and covid kept us isolated for so long. Sometimes simply knowing we can sit and just 'be' with non judgemental people is enough.
"I'm excited about our very first L8 based wellbeing day, by the community for the community. There’s many amazing practitioners in our community. I'm looking forward to more days like this".
Alan continued: "In the West we're conditioned to feel like we’re separate, unique individuals. We live our separate lives, live in concrete boxes, drive around in cars, work our 9 to 5s then collapse, tired in front of the tele with a beer and shut off our minds.
"Many don't talk to their neighbours anymore and because of this, people are lonely, stressed, and overwhelmed. We're not meant to be living our lives or facing our struggles in this separate, disconnected way.
"Human Beings are social animals, we need each other. We need our tribe, our people around us".
While it’s holistic and spiritual in nature, Ubuntu is not religious and open and respectful of anyone's beliefs, faith or lack of faith. Christians, Muslims, Atheists, those practising African-Caribbean traditional religions and those who say they’re 'spiritual but not religious' all attend Ubuntu together.
Sunday July 23 sees their first open day, which anyone from any background is welcome to attend at the Caribbean Centre, Upper Parliament Street, L8 from 1pm - 6pm. There’s free tasters of holistic therapies, Yoga, Pilates, dance, drumming, things for the kids, food to purchase and more.
For more information visit Ubuntu HERE
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