Cosmic Therapy: A May Series For Healing

After the success of my Pisces Season series, I’m back with a new series for Mental Health Awareness Month that’s all about healing through astrology. As many of you know, my journey right now is deeply rooted in healing, and I’m using my own chart to guide me through this process. I've been focused on generational healing work for some time, and ironically, I’ve always been afraid to look at my family members' natal charts—something I’ll explore more throughout this series.

While I’m not a professional astrologer or mental health expert, I’ve been doing my research, and I know there are spiritual tools that can be helpful in therapy. So, through my learning and experience, I’m passing on the knowledge that’s been supporting me on my healing journey. This series is for those of you who’ve always had questions about how to read your own chart, and I’m dedicating this month to both relearn and teach these insights.

I hope you’ll join me in this exploration of astrology and mental health.

Brazil Part 2: Yes I Practice ATR

Yes, I Practice ATR: My Journey to Confidence and Clarity

When I first started saying out loud, “I practice Lucumí,” it felt like I was stepping onto a stage with a spotlight I wasn’t ready for. The practice, the path—it was mine, but the world wasn’t always kind to people like me. Especially in Chicago, where spirituality outside the mainstream often feels like an unspoken taboo.

Growing up in a family where spirituality was diverse and personal, you’d think I’d be comfortable with my path. On my mother’s side, Hoodoo was woven into our history—quietly practiced and deeply respected. On my father’s side, ATRs like Ifá had their place, but even there, everyone’s journey was uniquely theirs. No one path was considered “the way,” and we didn’t openly discuss our spiritual practices beyond the immediate family or the clients some of them had. It was a IYKYK kind of thing in community.

This individuality was empowering but also isolating. I didn’t know how to articulate my truth or where my path fit into the larger narrative of my family’s practices. It wasn’t shame exactly—it was more of a hesitation to put words to something so sacred, especially when I wasn’t sure if others would understand or respect it. But Brazil changed everything.

Why Brazil? Why Now?

When the opportunity to join Beaucoup Book Club’s anniversary trip to Brazil came up, something in me said, “Yes.” Maybe it was Elegua whispering at the crossroads, or maybe it was my spirit saying it was time to confront my doubts. Either way, I knew I needed to see how African Traditional Religions (ATRs) were practiced beyond the walls of my spiritual house. I wanted to learn—not just about Candomblé or Lucumí but about myself. Was I in the right space? Was this practice truly mine, or was I just going through the motions because it was familiar?

Lessons from Brazil

Being in Bahia felt like unlocking a new dimension of understanding. Every terriero, ile, and house we visited exuded a sense of community I hadn’t experienced back home. The rituals were raw, vibrant, and unapologetically African. Seeing Candomblé practitioners worship, witnessing my first Bembé—it felt like a homecoming for my soul.

And the familiars! Cats, turtles, and other animals casually moving through sacred spaces as if they too were part of the family. It made me wonder: how do these practitioners navigate earthly issues without letting them taint the sacredness of their community? The Sisters of the Good Death stood out most. Their blend of African and Catholic traditions, their pride in their practices, their ability to hold space for spirituality and liberation—it was everything.

Reconnecting with My Spiritual Lineage

This trip made me reflect on how I found my spiritual house. It’s funny now, but at the time, I had no idea what I was walking into. Seven years ago, I passed by a little green building in the Chicago Logan Square neighborhood daily, feeling drawn to it. A reading from Baba Victor turned out to be the starting point of this journey.

What stood out about Baba Victor was how he encouraged me to take my time. There was no pressure to rush back, no ultimatum about my spiritual path. That patience allowed me to live, learn, and eventually return to this practice on my terms.

Brazil gave me the confidence to say, “Yes, I practice ATR.” Seeing how ingrained ATRs are in Brazilian culture—even blending into churches—affirmed that my spirituality wasn’t “weird” or “other.” It was ancestral. It was powerful. It was mine.

My dreams haven’t been the same since I returned. They’re vivid, prophetic, and undeniably connected to my Orisha. It’s as if my spirit lineage is saying, “You’re on the right track. Keep going.”

Moving Forward

As I close out 2024, I’m leaving behind the doubts and insecurities that held me back. 2025 is about staying in my bag—deepening my practice, honoring my lineage, and building the kind of community I saw in Brazil.

Yes, ATRs are everywhere. But they’re also within me, guiding me, challenging me, and helping me grow.

To my fellow seekers: don’t be afraid to question, to explore, and to find what’s right for you. And if you’re ever at the crossroads, just remember—Elegua’s got you.

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST EPISODE 10 HERE NOW

HOODOO HERITAGE MONTH - Ep. 05

Healing in the Balm Yard with Samantha Jo: Celebrating Hoodoo Heritage Month

Welcome, beloved listeners, to another episode of Healing In the Balm Yard with Samantha Jo. This October, we're paying homage to an integral part of the black American culture —Hoodoo. In this episode, we will journey through the intricate webs of Hoodoo, its rich heritage, misconceptions, and contemporary celebrations. Are you ready? Let's go!

HooDoo Heritage Month

October is all about honoring the rich traditions of Hoodoo. As we venture through this month, we'll be reconnecting with our ancestors, understanding the customs, and deepening our spiritual journey. But first, let's address the BIG question—where does the term 'Hoodoo' originate from? It's vital to understand that Hoodoo isn't the same as Voodou. They're distinct, though they share African roots. Through my studies and experiences, I've come to realize how deeply intertwined Hoodoo is with practices like conjure and rootwork. And trust me, there's so much more to uncover!

Shedding Light on Taboos & Misconceptions

Okay, let's talk about the elephant in the room. Over the years, Hoodoo has been shrouded in taboos, mostly arising from misunderstandings. How many times have we seen Hoodoo misrepresented in movies? It's essential for us to break away from these misconceptions. One crucial aspect I've discovered is how Hoodoo blends with Christianity. If you've ever been to Congo Square in New Orleans, you'll witness the strength of our African traditions firsthand. This place embodies the resilience and richness of Hoodoo practices.

HooDoo’s Influence Across Communities

Hoodoo isn't just limited to our Black community; it's made significant impacts in the Hispanic and Latino communities as well. Each year, the Hoodoo Beaucoup Fest in New Orleans becomes a vibrant celebration, uniting everyone with music, arts, and rituals. And if you're in Chicago or planning to visit, the city offers its unique blend of urban life with Hoodoo traditions. It's incredible to witness! ALSO! Mark your calendars for this event coming up on Saturday, October 21, 2023.

Spotlight: The Enchanting Rue Herb

Now, for my favorite segment: let's discuss the powerful Rue Herb this week. Throughout my practice, I've deeply respected Rue for its spiritual and protective qualities. Whether you're familiar with Santeria, Ifa, Hoodoo, or just starting out in practice, Rue offers a wealth of benefits. From its traditional applications in talismans to its modern-day significance in incense, it's truly a symbol of our spiritual resilience. But remember, as with all potent herbs, handle Rue with care and reverence.

Invitation to Dive Deeper

Before we wrap up, here's a special invitation for all of you: join me this month at the L1 Store for a plethora of magical events honoring HooDoo. Let's come together for workshops, rituals, and, most importantly, community bonding. Dive into the calendar, and let's celebrate this beautiful heritage. Stay connected, engage, and let's keep the flame of Hoodoo burning bright. Until next time, keep nurturing your soul and honoring our shared history. Much love and magic to all! 🌿✨🔮

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RESOURCES FROM THE EPISODE + MORE

HOODOO HERITAGE: A BRIEF HISTORY OF AMERICAN FOLK RELIGION

AKAN ORIGIN OF THE TERM HOODOO

Hoodoo in St. Louis: An African American Religious Tradition

JUJU BAE'S PODCAST

CHECK OUT THE FOLLOWING PODCAST EPISODES I LOVED FROM JUJU BAE'S PODCAST - EACH ONE SPOKE ABOUT THE POWERS OF THE HOODOO CULTURE + KEEPING THE TRADITIONS AFRICAN PEOPLE CREATED SACRED

EP. 03 INTERVIEW WITH MYESHA: HOODOO IS RESISTANCE, HOODOO IS BLACK

EP. 75 TO STUDY HOODOO, STUDY HISTORY