The field of study called epigenetics explains that our DNA contains memories passed down from previous generations. Researchers have conducted massive studies that identify how trauma has been passed down to descendants of Jewish holocaust survivors.
Scholars are using the same approach to understand how slavery still physically affects Black people today.
For 400 years, our ancestors worked up to 18 hours per day on little to no food. They burned around 4,000-5,000 calories.
We’ve only had several decades to adjust to a less active lifestyle, which may contribute to the high rates of obesity Black people experience today.
Many Black people are born into PTSD and depression as part of the legacy of rape and beatings that were inherent in slavery and Black life. We’ve inherited that trauma, y’all.
Our bodies remember, and respond to it with elevated stress hormones, impacting our heart health.
Ancestral memory is real. Memories of suffering and survival are embedded within us.
It’s a gift and a curse: we know the pain we’ve experienced, and we know the strength of our resilience. From this, we can remember to take care of ourselves, our minds, and each other.
Via: #PushBlack
Photocred: #PushBlack
