Mama Said There'd Be Days Like This: Addressing Generational Trauma and Healing

Held just before Mother’s Day and during Mental Health Awareness Month, the event brought together mothers, caregivers, and community members eager to reflect on the wisdom passed down through generations and the patterns they want to change.

Participants at the Mama Bear's Zen Workshop

Opening Reflections on Motherly Sayings

The workshop began with a warm and engaging activity where attendees shared popular sayings they had heard from mothers and mother figures over the years. These sayings ranged from encouraging and uplifting to challenging and sometimes limiting. This exercise set the tone for honest reflection, showing how words and actions from our elders shape our beliefs and behaviors.

By acknowledging both the positive and negative messages, participants recognized how these phrases influence their emotional responses and family dynamics. This opening helped everyone appreciate the power of language in shaping generational wisdom and trauma.

Understanding Trauma and Generational Patterns

Licensed social worker Sakia Godwin led a thoughtful discussion on identifying trauma and recognizing generational cycles. Sakia encouraged participants to reflect on which patterns they want to break and shared practical tools for healing.

Key points from Sakia’s session included:

• Recognizing trauma signs: Emotional triggers, communication breakdowns, physical symptoms like increased heart rate, difficulty breathing, land ack of focus often signal unresolved trauma.

• Breaking cycles: Awareness is the first step. Setting boundaries and seeking support can help interrupt harmful patterns.

• Healing tools: Therapy, journaling, mindfulness, and community support are effective ways to process trauma.

  
  

Sakia emphasized the importance of compassion for oneself and others during this process. The workshop also focused on the positive side of generational influence: the wisdom and encouragement passed from one generation to the next. Participants shared stories of advice and lessons that empowered them, such as resilience, kindness, and self-care.

A Unique Tea Blending Experience with Vena Carter

One of the most memorable moments was the tea blending session led by Vena Carter from SpiritualiTeas. Against a backdrop of a beautifully arranged table setting, Vena guided attendees through creating their own herbal tea blends. She shared the health benefits of various herbs, such as lavender for relaxation, cinter for digestion, and peppermint for energy.

This hands-on activity offered a calming, sensory experience that complemented the workshop’s themes of self-care and healing. Participants left with personalized tea blends to enjoy at home, serving as a daily reminder to nurture themselves.

Special Thanks to Wegmans

We extend a heartfelt thank you to Wegmans Owings Mills for sponsoring the food and beverages at the workshop. Their generous support helped satisfy our appetites for community and connection around a fresh and nutrious meal.

Looking Ahead: Upcoming Workshops

Community 247 is committed to continuing this important work with future workshops. Our Gen Win Youth Activities workshop series is returning the summer with the first activity taking place on Saturday, June 13. Our topic is "Music Makes You Move Your Soul." Registration is now open.

Consider supporting our workshops by making a tax deductible donation. Donations help to offset speaker fees, supplies and refreshments for our free programming.