I recorded a podcast episode almost a year ago and never released it. The timing felt off. I wasn’t sure why. But when I think about it now, the episode is deeply personal. To share something like this takes a level of courage I didn’t quite have at the time.
Since then, I dropped my regular yoga studio classes, ran my first yoga nidra course, and offered yoga classes and personal sessions at a women’s refuge, I let go of a relationship and had my first-ever audition. To name a few challenging experiences. Sharing your voice and allowing yourself to be seen is hella scary. It takes time, compassion and gentleness.
This year, I’m committed to my journey of healing and stepping into my power. In this episode, I offer a karakia/prayer and introduce myself through whakapapa. Reciting the places and people I come from. I give some background and offer my intentions for the podcast: Ko Wai Au.
Some of you might be aware of the song “I AM” which Stan Walker co-wrote and performs for the movie Origin written and directed by Ava DuVernay. I won’t go into the reasons this song and the timing of its release is significant for Māori and indigenous people around the world. But it makes me so proud to be Māori and people were deeply moved. In Stan’s interviews to promote the song and film, he talks about the importance of knowing where you come from and who you come from as a foundation to know where you are going. This sentiment resonated with me. I owe my life to my parents and ancestors who came before me and the lands I was birthed from. Naturally, I had to start this podcast with my whakapapa.
Listening to the recording now, I wish I could change a few things e.g. the sound quality haha. But overall, I’m happy with it and you gotta start somewhere. I hope you listen and enjoy the episode.
Thank you for being here
kura x
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