The Endowed Objects of Latina Wellness: Finding Comfort and Strength
As Latinas, we carry a rich and deep blend of cultural practices and ancestral wisdom that guide us toward wellness, whether we consciously recognize it or not. It's part of human tradition to give meaning to the objects we create and turn them into traditions that offer grounding, healing, and comfort. These endowed objects—altars, rebozos, and even frijoles y arroz—serve as anchors for emotional security and stability, especially in turbulent times.
Altars: A Space for Wellness and Reflection
One of the most profound examples of our cultural wisdom is the use of altars. In our ambassador program, we encourage women to create altars as reminders of the health and wellness they seek in their lives. These altars, adorned with meaningful objects, photos, candles, and symbols, become sacred spaces for reflection and intention-setting, deeply rooted in our cultural heritage.
Altars are profound representations of our culture and history; they hold a unique magic—the ability to ground us and provide a sense of safety. They remind us of our connections to our ancestors, our dreams, and our inner strength. Creating these spaces honors our well-being and invites healing into our lives.
The Rebozo: A Symbol of Comfort and Embrace
The rebozo, a traditional woven shawl, has deep cultural and emotional significance. Its root word sounds like abrazo, the Spanish word for hug. This is fitting, as the rebozo offers both literal and symbolic warmth and protection.
The word rebozo comes from the Spanish verb rebozar, meaning "to cover" or "to wrap." In our wellness practices, we often include rebozos in altars and spaces where we center Latinas. We want women to feel hugged and wrapped in a space where their culture and experiences are honored. The rebozo becomes an endowed object embedded with the power to ground and comfort us.
Everyday Objects as Anchors for Stability
In this season of political hostility and uncertainty, objects that offer comfort become even more essential. Whether it's a rebozo, an altar, or a simple plate of frijoles y arroz, these items create an immediate sense of emotional security, anchoring us back to our nido (nest). They remind us of who we are, where we come from, and what sustains us.
We are holding up families, in multiple countries, in multiple ways.
Each is its own universe of life.
We need a rebozo-type of super-she-roe-cape to make it through these politically charged and hostile environments. To make it through these complex environments, we need something that empowers us to keep going, grounded in love and resilience.
Reflections from Fernanda Alayo
Our blogger Fernanda Alayo shares her cafecito of reflections:
"Since moving here, I've also embraced cooking traditional Peruvian dishes, learning how to make four of them. These personal touches help me stay connected to my roots and remind me of my purpose. Being far from home, I often reflect on why I'm here—and I'm reminded that I am here because of the love and support of my family."
"They pushed me to pursue my nursing career. I'm proud to be the first in my family to attend college in the U.S. I'm building towards generational wealth, supporting my partner's dreams, and aiming to be a positive role model for my niece. These endowed objects—especially my cozy sweaters—serve as daily reminders of my strength, resilience, and the love that motivates me."
Embrace Your Story
Do you feel like writing about your feelings? Reflecting on the objects that ground you and bring you comfort? We'd love to hear your stories and experiences with these endowed objects. Please share about tu rebozo o favorito cosa? Tell us in the comments below, and let's build a community of shared experiences and cultural wisdom.
Join us for Transforming Pain Into Purpose: A Journey of Resilience and Healing, an empowering workshop with Candace Sanchez. TUESDAY, FEB 11th, 6 PM on ZOOM!
She'll share her personal journey of overcoming childhood trauma and finding strength in her story. Through her coaching and seminars, Candace creates safe spaces for survivors to embrace their truths and unlock the transformative power of resilience. This workshop is a chance to heal, find your voice, and discover how embracing your story can lead to meaningful change.
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