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

by Resmaa Menakem

FINGER BALANCE For this activity, buy what’s called a balancing bird. Google those two words and you’ll find a lot of options. Get one that’s four to seven inches long; you should be able to find one for a dollar or two. (Prices range widely, but all models have the same basic design.) Hold out your hand with the palm up. Keep your index finger extended, but curl the rest of your hand into a fist. Place the beak of the balancing bird gently on the tip of your index finger. The beak will be no wider than a pencil point. If you keep your hand still, the bird will balance perfectly on your fingertip. The bird will seem to defy gravity and float in place. Continue to let the bird balance on your fingertip for thirty to sixty seconds, keeping your attention focused on it. If you like, move your hand in small, slow circles while the bird stays balanced. These birds are more than just cool toys. They can have a profound focusing and settling effect on the body. I first learned about them as part of my training as a somatic therapist. If you like, carry the bird in your purse or pocket. In moments of stress or difficulty, pull it out and balance it on your finger for a minute or so. (But if you want to be left alone, don’t do this in public. There’s a good chance someone will come over and say, “Wow, that is awesome.”)