Why Inclusivity is Essential for Wellness and How to Infuse it Sustainably

The Innovative Therapist

Episode 103. Hey there, wonderful listeners! Dr. Shawn Hondorp here, and today, I am looking forward to sharing an important episode with you. In this episode, we're diving into the essential topics of inclusivity and emotional safety in the wellness space. Inclusivity and Emotional Safety: A Personal Reflection As a cis-gender white woman with various privileges, I come to understand more and more all the time the essential importance of addressing topics related to race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, weight/body size, ability, and more in the wellness space. Staying silent about these matters serves no one, and I believe that sharing my imperfect process can help foster a more inclusive environment. Creating spaces that promote emotional safety and inclusivity is crucial for long-term sustainable change and a sense of belonging. Without these elements, true well-being is very difficult to achieve, if not impossible. Why Inclusivity Matters for Wellness Professionals As wellness professionals, we play a significant role in influencing others, including our clients, communities, and families. By learning about and promoting inclusivity, we can create a more equitable and empathetic world, and by addressing emotional safety, we can ensure that everyone feels welcome and valued in the wellness space. Learning and Growing in Inclusivity In this episode, I aim to share my journey of learning and growing in this area and the steps I take to hold myself accountable. The path to inclusivity is an ongoing process that involves continuous education, self-reflection, and open dialogue. By engaging in these efforts, we can work towards a more inclusive and diverse wellness community. Resources for Further Learning If you're interested in exploring these topics further, here are some resources that have been instrumental in my own journey: 📚 Books: "Decolonizing Wellness: A QTBIPOC Centered Guide to Escaping the Diet Trap, Heal Your Self-Image, and Achieve Body Liberation" - Bookshop link here. "I’m Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness" by Austin Channing Brown - Bookshop link here. "Promoting Black Women’s Mental Health" by Donna Baptiste and Adia Gooden - Amazon link here. 🎧 Podcasts: Dr. Clint Smith and Brene Brown on "How The Word is Passed" - Link here. Dalia Kinsey: "Body Liberation for All" - Apple Podcasts link here. "Helping White Women Uproot Systemic Racism" - Apple Podcasts link here. Continuing the Work As you engage with these resources and embark on your own journey of self-discovery and inclusivity, you may encounter different parts of yourself that resist doing this work. Be mindful of shame, self-criticism, anger, savior complex, overworking anxiousness, and overwhelm. Allow yourself grace and compassion as you navigate these feelings. Remember, the journey towards inclusivity and emotional safety is ongoing. Let's continue learning and growing together as we foster an environment that supports everyone's well-being. Join Our Community If you're passionate about creating an inclusive wellness space and would like to be part of a supportive community, consider joining our membership at DrHondorp.com/Workshop. With gratitude, Dr. Shawn Hondorp What to Expect in this Interview In this important conversation, we cover: 🕒 7:53- Why I decided to discuss this topic and how tempting it is for us to stay silent 🕒 9:53- Why inclusivity is so important for wellness and why this topic is also so important for individuals and professionals 🕒 12:09- How I learn and grow in this area and how I hold myself accountable 🕒 15:04-Some of my favorite books and podcasts on inclusivity (Linked above for you to check out 😊) 🕒 19:19- What others should know about inclusivity and what parts may show up to resist doing this work 🕒 And so much more! “I know I shouldn’t focus on weight loss,