Reciprocity
Reciprocity is not only a philosophy but a guiding principle that rules the lives of many indigenous cultures, particularly the Andean communities in Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador and Columbia. They call it ‘Ayni’.
When we work with sacred indigenous medicines and receive healing, I feel it is very important to give back to those communities. It supports their economies and ensures that the medicinal plants are grown and harvested sustainably. Paying it forward is a great way to honour our interconnectedness.
It is important to me to recognize that we are privileged to do this work. Like everything else in this colonial and capitalistic society, those of us with financial strength get access to healing and medicines while a lot of people, especially BIPOC, get marginalized and exploited. A lot of the healing practices and traditions we use, originated from these cultures.
True healing cannot happen without reciprocity and care for everyone.
Here are some organizations I trust and support. Please consider donating to them.
Indigenous Medicine Conservation Fund
Grow Medicine
Junglekeepers
Seva Foundation
Indian Residential School Survivors Society
