Navigating the Path to Healing and Recovery

In 2013, just two years after gaining independence, South Sudan was plunged into a violent and brutal war, exposing millions of women, men, and children to unimaginable horrors. The aftermath of this conflict continues to cast a long shadow over the nation, leaving its people grappling with the profound impacts of trauma, uncertainty about the future, and the daily stresses of life. Nearly every individual in the country has been affected by war, with many experiencing loss of loved ones and the upheaval of their lives. Amidst this turmoil, pervasive challenges such as hunger, violence, and despair have taken a heavy toll on communities, driving individuals to isolation, self-neglect, and even suicide.

For Anyieth D’Awol, the founder of the ROOTS organization, this trauma hit close to home. As she navigated her own deeply traumatizing experiences, including secondary trauma from her human rights work and personal losses, Anyieth found herself in desperate need of support. It was during a pivotal moment that she had the opportunity to attend a transformative 5-day training with the Center for Mind Body Medicine (CMBM) in the United States. Anyieth immersed herself in CMBM's program of self-awareness, self-care, and group support, finding solace and healing in the process.

Through the CMBM training, Anyieth embarked on a journey of self-discovery and healing, shedding tears, sharing laughter, and reclaiming her sense of self. Inspired by CMBM's mission to address population-wide trauma, she felt a deep calling to bring these life-changing skills back to South Sudan. Drawing upon her personal experiences and the stories of her community, Anyieth organized a training session for 100 individuals, including members of the ROOTS organization and other civil society groups. Since then, the ROOTS organization has integrated the CMBM model into its work, empowering women to support one another, practice mindfulness, and navigate the myriad challenges they face.

The impact of these efforts has been profound, providing a lifeline of support for individuals grappling with trauma, conflict, economic hardship, and the effects of climate change. Through meditation, group sharing, and the cultivation of resilience, participants have found renewed strength and hope in the face of adversity.

Today, Anyieth continues to advocate for trauma healing in South Sudan, serving as a faculty member with CMBM and spearheading initiatives to expand access to mind-body medicine in her homeland.

Healing Together: Empowering South Sudanese Women with Mind-Body Medicine

In June 2018 in Juba, South Sudan, the ‘Introduction Mind Body Medicine (MBM)’ training took place. This five-day program, conducted by the Center for Mind Body Medicine (CMBM), aimed to provide trauma relief and psychological support to community leaders and peace advocates, predominantly comprising members of various local organizations.

South Sudan, the world's youngest nation, has endured over 50 years of conflict, leaving an indelible mark on its people. Trauma and its effects permeated every aspect of society. Against this backdrop, the Roots Project, along with other local organizations, recognized the urgent need for healing and resilience-building initiatives.

Led by South Sudanese human rights lawyer Anyieth D’Awol, the Roots Project, facilitated the MBM training. With support from CMBM, D’Awol and her team embarked on a journey to empower women and communities ravaged by conflict.

The participants, comprising 88 individuals, including 80 women and 8 men, represented a diverse array of organizations, including the Roots Project, Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), Women’s Union, Kurukowate (a women’s food cooperative), and the South Sudan Women Entrepreneurs Association (SSWEA).

The training sessions delved into various mind-body skills, including meditation, imagery, and spirituality, tailored to meet the unique needs of participants. Despite limited literacy levels, the sessions were conducted with care and inclusivity, ensuring that every participant felt empowered to engage fully in their healing process.

Throughout the training, participants shared stories of pain, resilience, strength, and hope amidst adversity. From coping with early marriages to grappling with the loss of loved ones, each narrative underscored the profound impact of trauma on individuals and communities. Through shared experiences and collective support, participants found solace and healing.

The transformative power of MBM became evident as participants embraced meditation and other coping mechanisms, integrating them into their daily lives. For many, these newfound skills offered a pathway to healing and empowerment, enabling them to navigate the challenges of post-conflict life with resilience and courage.

As the training concluded, participants emerged with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. Armed with practical tools and a newfound sense of community, they embarked on a journey of healing and transformation, determined to rebuild their lives and communities.

Reflections on the Mind Body Medicine Retreat - Mozambique 2018

Reflecting on the Community Leaders Mind Body Retreat in Mozambique in 2018 brings me immense gratitude. Hosting and facilitating this retreat, rooted in the transformative CMBM trauma healing model, was a deeply humbling experience. Having the support and trust of colleagues and friends who came all the way from Jordan, Seattle, Puerto Rico, and CMBM itself, alongside community leaders from across Africa, was an honor.

Leading up to the retreat, my mind was buzzing with expectations. However, as the event unfolded, I realized the importance of "emptying my cup" and embracing the unknown. What transpired surpassed my wildest dreams.

The essence of the CMBM model has become ingrained in my being. Witnessing the profound transformations of beloved individuals—Roots Project members, civil society colleagues, human rights advocates, and more—filled my heart with joy. Participants from diverse backgrounds and nations, including South Sudan, Uganda, Kenya, Mozambique, and South Africa, united through shared experiences of trauma and resilience. Our four-day journey, filled with small group sessions, lectures, meditations, and experiential activities, was a testament to the power of collective healing.

Immersed in an isolated setting devoid of town distractions and internet connectivity, participants found space and connection. This environment fostered openness and relaxation, essential for our individual and collective journey toward healing. Together, we delved into shared spaces, creativity, nourishing food, and invigorating activities, feeling a sense of belonging and ease.

In conflict-ridden societies like ours, where trauma is pervasive, it becomes the lens through which we see life. If most South Sudanese are traumatized, it reflects in the state of our nation. This underscores the need for healing and resilience for meaningful change. As a South Sudanese, witnessing my compatriots benefit from this program fills me with genuine hope.