Practices for Pride

Written By Lesley Smith

As the month of Pride rolls around this year, we’re reminded that Pride started from the Stonewall Riots as a pushback against ongoing oppression. There have been increased legislations against our community and some decrease in cultural acceptance, but no matter how safe it is to be visible, we will be here. Part of being here means being more than scared. If it’s not safe for you in public, you still need to find safe places to be your full self. To embrace yourself. To simply exist.

I wanted to provide some resources for guided meditation and virtual yoga that is Queer-affirming. To offer some moments of peace being in your body.

  • Mindful.org published this article by Dr. Stacee Reicherzer that includes a 15-minute meditation to reflect on the colors of the Pride Flag

  • Manifest and Thrive’s YouTube page has this 9.5 minute meditation for Gender Euphoria

  • Xude Yoga shared this 26-minute yoga practice for Trans Bodies (be sure to connect with your medical provider before engaging in physical practices)

A great Portland-area organization for LBGTQ+ support is the Q Center and their website has a great list of additional resources.

If in need of more immediate support, here are some hotlines you can call:

  • Trans Lifeline - (877) 565-8860 - Support for and by trans folks (hotline is active M-F 10am-6pm, with some holidays excluded, see more here)

  • The Trevor Project - Call us at (866) 488-7386 - 24/7 Suicide Prevention Lifeline for LGBTQ+ Youth (you can also reach The Trevor Project through chat or text - read more about options here)

  • 988 is the general suicide prevention/crisis lifeline, it is not LGBTQ+ specific, but still worth a call, when you need support

All that being said - Happy Pride! I hope you find some queer joy this month!

As always, take what is helpful and leave the rest. I hope you have the week you need.

Lesley Smith
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