Reclaiming Ancestral Wellness: A Conversation with J The Hood Healer
In a world increasingly dominated by quick-fix western medicine, a movement is emerging—one that looks backward to move forward. On a recent episode of “The Day With Trae,” host Trae Holiday welcomed practitioner and herbalist J, also known as the Hood Healer, to discuss the role of holistic health and ancestral practices in modern community healing.
J’s journey began through personal necessity within a healthcare system where she felt like a "test dummy.” Her perspective shifted entirely after experiencing the effects of a single herb prescribed by a naturopathic doctor.
The Power of the Root Process
J approaches community wellness through a structured four-pillar R.O.O.T. process: regulation, optimization, observation, and tools.
Regulation: This begins with addressing stress, which J identified as the primary culprit for many physical ailments in the Black community. "Stress is the root of a lot of issues with the body," she said. "Your organs are literally shutting down because they're trying to compensate for the stress that you're facing.”
Optimization: Rather than demanding an overnight transformation, J focuses on integration. "I don't want to turn people's lives upside down," she said. "I want to see where we can fit ‘healthy’ into the lifestyle... it’s all about progress, it’s not perfection.”
Observation and Tools: By reviewing medical labs alongside lifestyle habits, J helps clients wean off certain medications in favor of herbal supplements.
Busting the Myth of Perpetual Disease
Perhaps the most urgent takeaway from the conversation was J’s challenge to how we view chronic illness. She urged people to view disease not as a permanent label, but as a signal.
"I want to bust the myth that we have to live with these things that they said you could never get rid of," she said. "Your body is your greatest asset... It’s not your body fighting you. It’s your body trying to tell you there’s a problem somewhere.”
From J’s perspective, practitioners like her are providing the bridge back to the land and to ourselves. For those looking to start their own journey, the message is clear: "Start that process so you can see progress,” she said.
Learn more about J and her services at hoodhealer.org
Catch “The Day With Trae” Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 11 a.m. on all Converge streaming platforms.
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