Native American History Month is a time to celebrate the rich heritage and contributions of Indigenous peoples. One way to honor this month and beyond is by engaging with literature written by Indigenous authors and collaborators. Not only does reading provide enjoyment and entertainment, but it also has numerous positive health impacts, including preventing long-term decline in cognitive function, according to a study published in the International Psychogeriatrics journal.
To enhance your cognitive health and expand your bookshelf, here are some recommended titles by Indigenous authors:
I. The Seven Circles: Indigenous Teachings for Living Well by Chelsey Luger and Thosh Collins
In “The Seven Circles,” Luger and Collins delve into Indigenous ancestral knowledge to offer a transformative guide to wellness. Through the Seven Circles model encompassing food, movement, sleep, ceremony, sacred space, land, and community, they provide practical advice intertwined with personal stories to promote self-care through cultural reclamation.
II. Mihko Kiskisiwin – Blood Memory: An Indigenous Poets Society Anthology
This anthology showcases diverse Indigenous voices through poetry, fiction, and creative non-fiction. By centering on the Cree concept of “blood memory,” the collection amplifies the testimonies of trauma and healing, emphasizing cultural resurgence and interrelated respect.
III. Gu’ahia Taíno (We Speak Taíno) by Roberto Múkaro Agueibaná Borrero
“Gu’ahia Taíno” is a comprehensive dictionary and grammar guide that aims to revive the classic Taíno language. Spearheaded by Taino Indigenous leaders, this landmark work preserves a vital ancestral language while inviting readers to engage with Indigenous identity and pride.
IV. When No Thing Works: A Zen and Indigenous Perspective on Resilience, Shared Purpose, and Leadership in the Timeplace of Collapse by Rōshi Norma Wong
Rōshi Norma Wong merges Zen philosophy with Indigenous Hawaiian teachings in “When No Thing Works” to reimagine resilience in a world facing collapse. Through poetic reflections, she guides readers to find hope and interconnected grace amidst crisis.
V. From the Ashes: My Story of Being Indigenous, Homeless, and Finding My Way by Jesse Thistle
Jesse Thistle’s memoir chronicles his journey from homelessness to reclaiming his identity and culture. With vulnerability and raw honesty, his story showcases resilience and the healing power of love and connection to the Indigenous community.
VI. Native Presence and Sovereignty in College: Sustaining Indigenous Weapons to Defeat Systemic Monsters by Amanda Tachine
Amanda Tachine sheds light on the systemic barriers Indigenous students face in higher education in “Native Presence and Sovereignty in College.” By highlighting the “weapons” Indigenous students use to overcome challenges, Tachine underscores the importance of love and community in navigating harmful campus environments.
VII. Washita Love Child: The Rise of Indigenous Rock Star Jesse Ed Davis by Douglas K. Miller
This biography of Jesse Ed Davis, a groundbreaking Kiowa-Comanche guitarist, restores his legacy in rock history. With insights from family and peers, the book celebrates Davis’s musical genius and cultural defiance, showcasing his impact on Native artistry.
VIII. Becoming Kin: An Indigenous Call to Unforgetting the Past and Reimagining Our Future by Patty Krawec
In “Becoming Kin,” Patty Krawec urges readers to “unforget” colonial histories and envision a more just future through kinship. Drawing from Anishinaabe wisdom and personal narrative, Krawec challenges us to honor treaties and restore relationships with the land in solidarity.
By exploring these titles by Indigenous authors and collaborators, you not only engage with diverse perspectives and narratives but also support and uplift Indigenous voices in literature. Let this Native American History Month be a time to celebrate Indigenous creativity and storytelling, and continue to incorporate these voices into your reading repertoire for years to come. The Benefits of Meditation for Mental Health
Meditation has been practiced for centuries as a way to calm the mind, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being. In recent years, research has shown that meditation can have a positive impact on mental health, with numerous benefits for those who practice it regularly.
One of the key benefits of meditation is its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. When we meditate, we are able to focus our attention on the present moment, rather than worrying about the past or the future. This can help to calm the mind and reduce feelings of anxiety and stress. Studies have shown that regular meditation practice can lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, leading to a greater sense of calm and relaxation.
Meditation has also been shown to improve mood and increase feelings of happiness. When we meditate, we are able to cultivate a sense of inner peace and contentment, which can lead to improved overall mood. Research has found that meditation can increase levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is associated with feelings of happiness and well-being. By regularly practicing meditation, individuals can experience a greater sense of positivity and joy in their daily lives.
In addition to reducing stress and improving mood, meditation can also help to improve focus and concentration. When we meditate, we are training our minds to be more focused and attentive. This can have a positive impact on our ability to concentrate on tasks and stay present in the moment. Studies have shown that regular meditation practice can improve cognitive function, leading to better focus, memory, and decision-making skills.
Furthermore, meditation can also help to reduce symptoms of depression. Research has found that meditation can increase levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that is linked to the growth and development of nerve cells. By increasing levels of BDNF, meditation can help to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. Additionally, meditation can help individuals to cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness and self-compassion, which can be beneficial for those struggling with depression.
Overall, the benefits of meditation for mental health are numerous. From reducing stress and anxiety to improving mood and focus, meditation can have a positive impact on overall well-being. By incorporating regular meditation practice into their daily routine, individuals can experience greater mental clarity, emotional stability, and inner peace.
