We are all connected. Inside ourselves, from cell to cell and the tip of your toes till the top of our head. But also outside ourselves, with our family, other living beings and the rest of the world. We are part of an ecosystem and we can’t function well without this system. Our family is the first social system that we are part of since birth. It is important to connect with your roots to get a better understanding of yourself. In this blog I will share some tips how to connect with your roots.
Because there are many similarities between members of a family, it is important to learn more about our roots. It helps you to understand yourself better and you can learn from other members of your family how to deal with some challenges in life. There is also more understanding because of these familiarities. So take a deep dive and connect with your roots.
Health benefits
Connecting with your roots is interesting, but it also has some health benefits. I share five benefits:
- It enhances social connections. You can get the feeling that you are part of a bigger community or group. It can strengthen your relationships with other family relatives.
- It preserves cultural heritage. In this way you can preserve your family traditions, values and beliefs.
- It can give you a sense of purpose. As connecting with your roots gives meaning to your life.
- It deepens your identity. Being more aware of your roots can give you a feeling of understanding. Being part of a group of people who are your ancestors can give you a feeling of belonging. As they will always be a part of who you are.
- It promotes mental wellbeing. Being part of a family reduces the feelings of stress and it helps you in challenging times because of their support. Whatever happens, you will always be connected to your roots and family.
So there are many reasons why you should connect with your roots. It is something special to be part of a family. We are part of something bigger, like a tree we grow our own way, but are always connected by our roots. Even when we don’t get along with every member of our family, there will be always a connection. It also learns us to be respectful to people we don’t like that much. Everyone is different, even in a family. With some we have many things in common and with others we don’t. It is something we need to accept.
How to connect with your roots
There are some practical things that can help you to connect with your roots. I will share eight examples:
#1 Create a family tree. Something that is worth a lot. As it can show you how your family is built and is also fun to do. In this way you can connect with your heritage.
#2 Meet your family and stay in touch. Maybe the most important way to connect with your family is to spend time with them. Make time for them and talk about your ancestors and the things you have in common. Arrange an afternoon to check your old photos and tell each other family stories. If your family lives far away, use social media to stay in touch and share just daily common things with each other.
#3 Travel to your ancestral homeland. Visit the birth place of your parents and grandparents. Travel to places where they lived or worked. Maybe the real birthplace still exists. Be aware or your ancestors when you visit these places and feel connected.
#4 Cook traditional food. Cooking and eating together connects people. It is part of our culture and heritage. If you make food that is based on a recipe from one of your relatives, it makes it even more special.
#5 Read books and literature about your culture. It can be a great way to learn more about your heritage and the experiences of your ancestors. Find books about history, biographies and true based stories.
#6 Watch documentaries and movies about your culture. Same like the books, watching documentaries and movies about the experiences of your ancestors can help you to connect with your roots. It can give you more understanding and a feeling of connection.
#7 Listen to traditional music. As music can touch your soul. Also try to listen to music that your family likes to listen to. Maybe you find similarities.
#8 Celebrate cultural holidays and festivals. To celebrate these days, you can learn about your heritage and connect with others that share the same heritage. In art, music and dance you can also find ways to connect.
What is your favorite way to connect with your roots?
Jane Regina Sauer 