My Grandmother's Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Mending of Our Bodies and Hearts

by Resmaa Menakem

Rhythmic group clapping. This is basically drumming on our own bodies. Hum in sync with others. This is ideal for when groups are cleaning, packing, cooking, or doing some other chore together. Brief, secure, caring touches. Of course, only give such touches to people who welcome and appreciate them. Braiding or combing each other’s hair. Although this is typically a woman-to-woman activity, there’s no reason why men—or men and women—can’t do it together. Cook together. This can also include eating together; feeding each other; bringing food to others in difficult times; serving or delivering meals to people in need; trading recipes; teaching others (especially young people) to cook; feeding each other’s babies or children; cooking new dishes or cuisines together; volunteering to cook together as a family at a church supper