2025 April Issue FINAL

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April 2025

Simone M Barnes and Veronica Robertson

My Spirit is Rooted Collective : The Rooted Experience Embrace Your Community

@UjimaMagazine

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April Showers, May Flowers You know that old saying, “April showers bring May flowers”? I’ve been thinking about that lately.

This time of year reminds me that even when things feel a little messy or uncertain, something beautiful can still happen. The seasons are changing, the days are getting a little longer, and I feel an energy of new beginnings in the air.

April feels like the perfect time to check in with ourselves — to let go of what’s been weighing us down and make room for some healing, some joy, and light. It doesn’t have

to be a big transformation… sometimes it’s just about taking a breath, being kind to ourselves (not beating ourselves up), and looking at what’s next.

In this issue of Ujima, we’re leaning into that spirit — stories that remind us of growth, community, and the beauty that can come after the rain. Our Everyday Heroes Spotlight this April is My Spirit is Rooted Black Sacred Collective, created to aid in restoring our souls to find balance in an "Unstable" world!

Take some time out of your day to read the stories we have for you in our April Issue.

Embrace Your Community Damita Miller-Shanklin Editor, Ujima Magazine

Ujima Magazine is a free news publication. For Advertising Opportunities email UjimaMagazineAds@gmail.com

Soul Care for the Multidimensional Being

By Christina Gobert, Contributing Writer

Have you been struggling to keep up with a routine that prevents burnout, exhaustion and prioritizes time for yourself? Often our attempts at balance can be superficial, as we often only focus on the physical. This misses the mark, as we are multi-layered beings and require constant attention to and support of all layers of ourselves for true wholeness.

From a Yogic perspective, we are comprised of 5 layers, known as the Koshas: • Physical body: The outermost layer of the self consisting of the physical body, muscles, bones and organs • Energy body: Consists of energy running through (life force energy) the body and around the body (aura) p2

• Mental/Emotional body: Feeds on information provided through the senses and encompasses the mind, thoughts, and emotions • Intellectual/Wisdom body: encompasses consciousness, intellect and wisdom, represents the higher capacity for understanding • Bliss body: is the most subtle layer of all, represents pure bliss, joy and connection to one’s true self-the soul Story continues on p8

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Health and Healing: A Journey to Wellness

By Jacqueline Johnson, Contributing Writer

Health and healing are more than just the absence of illness—they are a continuous journey toward balance, vitality, and inner peace.

True wellness comes from nurturing the body, mind, and spirit, creating harmony in all areas of life. Let’s break it down.

The Foundation of Good Health Maintaining good health begins with proper nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate rest. A balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins fuels the body and strengthens the immune system. Movement, whether through walking, yoga, or strength training, keeps the body agile and reduces stress. Rest and sleep are equally crucial, allowing the body to repair and recharge.

Healing from the Inside Out Healing is not just physical—it is also emotional and spiritual. Stress, trauma, and negative emotions can manifest as physical ailments, making it essential to address both the mind and body in the healing process. Practices such as meditation, journaling, and therapy can help release emotional burdens, promoting a sense of calm and clarity.

The Power of Self-Care Prioritizing self-care is a key part of health and healing. Taking time to relax, engage in activities that bring joy, and surround yourself with positive energy can enhance overall well-being. Whether it’s a warm bath, a quiet walk in nature, or simply setting healthy boundaries, self-care replenishes energy and restores balance.

A Holistic Approach to Wellness True healing involves a holistic approach that considers the whole person. Incorporating natural remedies, mindfulness, and spiritual practices can support the body’s innate ability to heal. By listening to the body and making intentional choices, we create UjimaMagazine.com

a lifestyle that supports long-term health and vitality.

Embrace the journey of health and healing—your body, mind, and spirit will thank you!

Contributing Writer, Jacqueline “ooh” Johnson Jacqueline Johnson, a proud Texan based in Denton, TX, is a visionary entrepreneur and community leader. As a newly minted “empty nester,” she cherishes her family, including two grown sons in California, two grandsons, and her newly married daughter, son-in-law, and their newborn.

Jacqueline is the founder of Jacquie ooh, an online resource hub dedicated to empowering women to think well and live well. She also leads the development of the Glow Collection

by Jacquie ooh, an all-natural skincare line offering a luxurious, nourishing experience.

Deeply involved in her community, Jacqueline serves as a precinct chair and recently launched the nonprofit Mom’n It, supporting mothers at all stages of their journey. She is the author of several inspiring works, including Glow Through It: A 21-Day Devotional Journal for Women; Dare to Sparkle: Entrepreneur Guide, Dream Big: 4-Day Devotional; and her latest release, ooh girl yes! Self-Care Coloring Book and Things.

Her online talk show, Motivational Monday with Jacquie ooh, earned 2023 and 2024 Telly Awards for excellence.

Learn more at www.jacquieooh.com.

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She Speaks Wellness:

A Season of Renewal: Healing the Mind and Heart

By Minister Sonya Hosey, Contributing Writer

Dear Sister, Trauma can leave deep scars emotionally, physically, and mentally. It’s the response to distressing experiences that impact on our mental health and sense of self. But just as winter eventually gives way to spring, healing is possible. Healing is the process of restoration and recovery—mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. It involves finding wholeness and peace, even after deep wounds.

Spring symbolizes renewal and growth, and just like nature, your healing is a journey.

Isaiah 61:3 promises, “…to give them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning…”. God offers beauty from brokenness, joy from sorrow, and renewal for your heart and mind.

ART

By Aubrie Edmond, Contributing Writer

T

his week, I finally finished the first phase of a project that I have been working on for months. Finishing projects is a huge deal for me, as I sometimes have a hard time finishing the personal projects that I start, but this project is special. Music has been a passion of mine since I was born. As a kid, I used to make up little songs and play the ones that I’d heard on the radio or from my parents on the keyboard. I’ve been writing songs since I had the ability to write words, but I recently let that part of my life slip. After my freshman year of college, I started taking Wellbutrin, and I feel like it fundamentally altered large parts of my personality. My art changed, and I lost my passion for music. I listened to it less and stopped writing it completely, which made me feel hollow. For two years I lost something that I considered to be such a large part of my life, and when I realized that was the effect Wellbutrin was having on me, I stopped taking it cold turkey.

Healing from trauma requires time and grace. It’s a process, and seeking support is key. Psalm 147:3 reminds us, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”

God is gently working in you, restoring peace and strength. As 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, “The old has gone, the new is here!”

You are not defined by your trauma. This is your season of renewal—emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.

Resources for support: • Ironsharpensiron4mysisters.com • AikiHealing.com • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): 1-800950-NAMI or nami.org • National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799SAFE (7233) or thehotline.org • SAMHSA’s Helpline (24/7): 1-800-662-HELP (4357) “God can restore what is broken and change it into something amazing. All you need is faith.” — Joel 2:25 Spring is here. And so is your healing – She is Well p4

While that’s not something I’d recommend, it’s something that I was willing to do for my art. After almost a year of my body returning to homeostasis, I was finally able to write a song. I decided to push myself further. I spent months gathering inspiration and broadening my horizons. My goal in life has always been to release music, not for the sake of trying to become famous, but art for art’s sake. I set out to write an EP with seven songs, and after six months of hard work, they’re finally finished. It feels like I’ve found a piece of my soul again, and I’m so excited to continue in this artistic endeavor.

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Our Everyday Heroes Feature:

My Spirit is Rooted Collective A Sacred Community Space

By Damita Miller-Shanklin

The Rooted Experience: A Conversation with “My Spirit is Rooted” I had the opportunity to catch up with Simone Monique Barnes and Veronica Robertson of My Spirit is Rooted to talk about their sacred community space created for Black women of all faiths.

What emerged was a rich understanding about belonging, culture, spirituality, and the power of just being.

Ujima: : How did My Spirit is Rooted begin, and who were the founders?

MSIR: My Spirit is Rooted was born from a conversation in late 2022 and UjimaMagazine.com

early 2023 between Simone Monique Barnes and Neshama Alheem (The Self Love Minister). Simone reflected on how difficult it was to find spaces in Austin where she could be spiritually nourished, culturally affirmed as a Black woman, and feel fully included. Neshama shared that she missed the warmth and care of growing up in the Black Church— those “How’s your spirit? How’s ya Mama and them?” moments.

Together, they wondered: Who gets to feel that sense of care if they’re outside of traditional church spaces—or not Christian at all? That question sparked what is now known as Rooted. While Neshama has since relocated, Simone and Veronica continue the work,

honoring her foundational role in the collective.

Ujima: Is My Spirit Is Rooted, a church, meditation space, or something else?

MSIR: Rooted isn’t a church or a typical meditation group. It’s a bimonthly Black sacred collective worship experience—a space for Black folx of all faiths to gather, heal, celebrate, and be. It blends spiritual traditions, music, rituals, and Black cultural wisdom into a space that feels like home. More than anything, Rooted is a way of being—a gathering Feature continues on p6

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Feature continued from p5

that honors all paths, all stories, all souls.

Ujima: What do you want the community to know about Rooted?

Ujima: What should someone expect when they attend a Rooted gathering?

MSIR: You’re not alone. The Black community in Austin and Central Texas is strong and diverse. You don’t have to choose between your culture and your spirituality. You don’t have to silence parts of yourself to belong.

Rooted is a space that holds all of you.

MSIR: Expect joy, culture, healing, and freedom. Gatherings take place in spaces rooted in Black culture or that have built strong relationships with the Black community—like the African American Cultural and Heritage Facility, DAWA HQ, and allgo austin.

You’ll experience ancestral honors, soulful music (the playlists are 🔥), embodied spiritual practices like dancing, praying, clapping, and reflecting. You might sing, cry, laugh, or just sit quietly. There's no pressure to perform—just show up as you are.

At Rooted, you don’t need to prove anything. You don’t need to show a résumé or a “Black card.” You belong, simply because you’re you.

Ujima: What is the goal of My Spirit is Rooted?

MSIR: To be a place of spiritual and communal nourishment for Black people. It’s a safe, affirming, ageinclusive, interfaith, LGBTQ+ welcoming space that sustains attendees spiritually between gatherings. Rooted is a touchstone—a soft place to land and a place to rise again.

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Ujima: What’s next for My Spirit is Rooted?

” You don’t have to

choose between your culture and your spirituality. You don’t have to silence parts of yourself to belong.

Rooted is a space that holds all of you.

MSIR: The future is about growth and sustainability—keeping this sacred space alive and expanding the voices within the Rooted Collective.

We’re working to stay communityfunded and spirit-led, with room for even more diverse Black spiritual perspectives. The goal is simple: to allow everyone to be Rooted—and know that being is enough.

Ujima: Anything else you’d like people to know?

Absolutely! We invite everyone to explore more through our Linktree.

You’ll find music playlists, meditations, and resources to help you feel grounded, joyful, and connected to Black culture and spirit.

Follow us on Instagram @MySpiritIsRooted and come to a gathering—you just might find what your spirit’s been craving.

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MARY’S TIPS AND IDEAS Foot Care

Mary Linnen, Editor

Get the sundress and sandals ready. This is my favorite time of the year. It’s something special about getting your feet ready for sandals and letting them breathe.

Whether you're looking for year-round TLC for your feet or hoping to prep 'em in time for the weather warm-up.

Starting with a foot spa feels good!! Yes at home.

Stay Focused Tips that may help you develop better focus and concentration.

Train your brain Did you know you may be able to train your brain to improve concentration? All it takes is 15 minutes, 5 days a week, according to one study.

Brain games not only raise your ability to focus, they boost your processing speeds, problem-solving skills, and memory.

Brain-training activities include: • Checkers • Chess • Dominoes • Sudoku • Jigsaw puzzle • Crossword puzzles

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The best foot spas can soothe achy feet, smooth rough heels and soften hard spots on your way to the ultimate.

While you can soak your feet in any vessel and use your hands to massage your toes, foot spas with special features can do both at once with minimal effort, thanks to "many mechanisms like temperature adjustments, massage options and more," There are many available so search the web and find the one that works for you.

Relax and have a great experience!

GINGER PEACH BLACK TEA I have a new favorite tea I would like to share. The taste is smooth, it's really good!! I usually do coffee in the morning and this is a great alternative.

Doing my research it appears that black tea has healthy ingredients which is always a plus ,and it’s also an energy booster without caffeine. Check your local grocery store or search online!

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Strawberry Short Cake We made it to another spring! Congratulations to you! I plan to start with one of my old favorites, strawberry shortcake using pound cake!!

INGREDIENTS: 1 (10.75 ounces) package Sara Lee®Frozen Pound Cake thawed 1 cup fresh strawberries sliced 1 tablespoon granulated sugar 1-1/2 cup whipped topping chocolate curls (optional) DIRECTIONS: Sprinkle sugar over strawberries

Cut Pound Cake into 8 slices, 1/2-inch thick Place 1 cake slice on each plate Top each slice with 2 tablespoons strawberries, a second cake slice, and 2 tablespoons strawberries.

Serve with whipped topping and chocolate curls, if desired.

Easy and delish with fresh or frozen strawberries. My choice of pound cake was always classic Sara Lee. Whatever you enjoy use it to kick off your Spring 2025 season.

Soul Care for the Multidimensional Being continued from p2

Here are some ways we can support each layer of ourselves: • Engaging in a meditation practice (can start with 5 minutes of silence each day) • Eating a high fruit and vegetable diet • Connecting to source through nature, prayer, meditation • Engaging in daily breathing practices to help move stagnant energy in the body • Engaging in daily physical practices such as yoga, qigong As a result, when thinking of ways to nourish ourselves that truly “fill our cup up”, it is best to consider targeting all five areas of our being for the most nourishing results.

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In what ways are you already supporting your multi-layered self?

What other areas would you like to incorporate into your wellness routine?

If you are interested in learning how to create a personalized Soul Care Routine that targets each layer of your being, please join me on Thursday April 17th, 2025 from 6-8pm at ACC Highland for my class, Taking Impeccable Care of Yourself.

In this class you will learn your unique constitution based on Ayurvedic principles and will leave with a personalized Soul Care plan. You will also learn basic principles of the Alkaline lifestyle.

Click here to register and hope to see you there!

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Ujima Shout-Out!

In the times we are in, it is important to Ujima that we make sure we support other Black businesses. I don’t know if you have notice, but black faces and black businesses are not being shown on the bigger platforms. So in order for our community to stay connected, we are doing shout outs to businesses that may be of interest to our readers.

These businesses will not only be in our Austin community but other communities in our surrounding areas.

Shout Out To: RaQuel Hopkins, LPC-Associate and Capacity Expert RaQuel Hopkins is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate with a Master’s of Science in Clinical and Mental Health Counseling from the University of Houston-Clear Lake. She draws from a compassionate humanistic approach, valuing the inherent worth and potential of every individual.

As a Capacity Expert, she believes she does not make you feel or cope better but focuses on helping you become better and build your capacity.

You can get more information about her services here Raquel Hopkins, LPC-Associate and on Linkedin here Raquel Hopkins Capacity Expert.

The Austin Texas Book Trail is an annual bookstore crawl dedicated to celebrating the literary spirit and supporting local independent bookshops in the greater Austin area. The 2025 Book Trail will take place on April 12-13, with a Saturday morning coffee meetup at Mañana Dos and Sunday evening afterparty at Community Garden bookending the weekend’s celebration.

You can find more information here Austin Texas Book Trail 2025.

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