An open letter to the non BIPOC Woo Woo & Spirituality communities

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Hey Woo Woo world, 

Before crystal wearing was cool, attending exclusive retreats with a high priestess was enlightening and performing moon rituals was fun, Black Women “Seers”, now officially known as Psychics, have been quietly, often in secret, holding down spiritual practices for generations.

Within the last 5 years, Spirituality, in particular, Woo Woo, seen as anything from witchcraft to Tarot cards, has surged amongst women. 

As more become empowered with gender + sexual equality and wellness + self directed spiritual practices, the ever present stain of racism must be addressed. 

Our now billion dollar industry was built on the demonization of African Spirituality, particularly the dark skinned evil-eyed “Magic Woman” stereotype that for centuries has perpetrated our communities. 

As an example, The Oracle, of the Matrix trilogy, an all seeing middle age vice ridden black woman, who not only guides each character’s destiny, but offers insights for the very survival of their civilization is feared + seen as a dangerous woman. 

More recently, the stereotype’s been depicted in “American Horror Story- The Coven” as a mean streaked, baby snatching Madame Marie Laveau. Her deadly + dark Voo Doo magic was frightening to even the Supreme Witch, portrayed as a elegant, classy white woman. 

As a black woman Psychic Medium from the United States living abroad in Mexico, I’ve been called everything from an angel to the devil. Although I was Voted #3 Psychic Medium in the World, there was no media coverage nor interest in my journey of being a coffee shop Tarot Reader to YouTube Personality to International TV Star story. 

While facing months of rejection, the Long Island Medium was having a wildly popular + high publicity reality show. 

And then the truth finally dawned on me, a black woman Psychic is intriguing yet dangerous. 

How can the art + ritual practices of the African diaspora been seen as dark while Woo Woo is seen as love + light? 

How can what was once illegal for BIPOC to practice now, not only be acceptable, but readily available at the local mall? 

Where’s the distinction? 

It is not only cultural + spiritual appropriation, it’s monetization of reverence + sacred acts. 

It appears as though every indigenous culture has been included in modern Woo Woo practices, which continue to flourish, while the very people they originate from falter under financial hardship + economic instability. 

Beyoncé’s recent single, “Black Parade”, claps back at stereotypes with, “Don’t I smell like nag champa incense”, referring to a comment made on the red carpet. 

She also pays homage to her African Spirituality in several lyrics about Oshun, Ogun & Yemaya of the Yoruban pantheon, which some may consider Hoo Doo. 

What makes Woo Woo acceptable + Hoo Doo unacceptable? 

The now classic, “Brujas” by Princess Nokia, declares, 

“I ain’t no Queen of the night! 

I’m a Bruja! I’m a Bruja! 

I’ma dress in all white.” 

A powerful message against the black woman psychic’s connection to the sexual underworld.

Cuban songstress, Dayme Arocena, eloquently praises her deep ancestral spiritual practices with songs to Oya, Oshun & Yemaya. 

The rise of African Spirituality, homage to ancestors + natural healing is being ignored while simultaneously being exploited. 

The ostracization of black women psychics from the Woo Woo world clearly demonstrates the injustices of systematic racism with the realm of Spirituality, including its communities, healing modalities, publishing & media outlets, merchandising and more. 

This act of Spiritual Bypassing is consciously choosing to overlook or subtly ignore these powerful truths. 

This open letter is to shed light on the often overlooked contributions black women, especially those with psychic and/or healing gifts, have made in the Woo Woo world. 

Ase, 

Tonya Gonzalez 

Author of Upcoming Book,

“Diary of a Black Psychic” 

Voted #3 Psychic Medium in the World 

International Psychic Challenge Season 11,

2012 STB Channel Kiev, Ukraine

 

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Over the years I have had the pleasure of using my gifts as a psychic medium & spiritual counselor with people from all over the world whose work ranges from retired FBI agents to Marketing VP’s yet it is writers who have provided the biggest inspiration. When I was a Librarian, I used to dream of being a NYT bestselling author & having a writer circle of friends like during the Harlem Renaissance.More than just my love of books, but the impact of their words regardless of the genre.It is such a blessing to witness the success of another who I’ve supported by doing what I love Thank you Layla & many blessings on the upcoming journal

In 2012, I competed in the International Psychic Challenge & was voted #3 Psychic Medium in the world on European TV. I share this because as a black woman, I was once afraid to share my natural gifts for fear of what others might say or do. Remembering the black women psychics that have come before me like Tituba, Madame Marie Lavaeu, Ms. Cleo & Pamela Coleman Smith, who each endured some type of persecution because of their intuitive superpowers, I feared the same ridicule. Before that I played it safe as a Librarian yet the call to serve, share & shine was too strong🤓

For the last decade I’ve supported bestselling authors, entrepreneurs, VP’s & more with intuitive guidance & Tarot Readings yet now more than ever, I’m empowering women to embrace Tarot as a tool of self discovery. 

Why now? 

As more women return to themselves, their ancestral wisdom and intuition, Tarot is a bridge between the inner landscape & outer reflection. 

The Empowered Tarotista is a yearlong journey with Tarot for you to develop;

⁃Cultivated daily spiritual practice 

⁃Powerful intuition through breathwork, meditative practices & energy healing techniques. 

⁃Learn how to use 2 decks to connect the inner and outer selves + more! 

Who is a Tarotista? 

A dynamic, determined & driven woman who lives life on her terms. She welcomes the healer within to guide & provide her next steps while recognizing her self assurance comes from her cultivated spiritual practice. 

She knows Tarot is a tool that expands her self awareness while increasing her connection to the Divine. 

A Tarotista trusts herself & her intuition to empower her life.

A few Membership Benefits include:

⁃2021 Tarotista profile (growth, soul cycle + annual forecast)

    ⁃  Learn how to create your  personal Tarotista Profile 

⁃Monthly Full moon gathering 

⁃Birthday reading + 2x 30 minute Empowered Tarot Sessions & more! 

Join me on this 2021 sacred of self discovery to empower your life, biz & dreams🔮 

P.S. 2021 is a 5 numerology year of personal freedom & forward movement, what steps are you taking to empower this on your journey? 

Join this sacred journey, click here

Join us LIVE for this amazing opportunity to gain insight & wisdom from WOC Spiritual Entrepreneurs!

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Today’s guest had to cancel due to a death in the family however, Miana & I are EXCITED to share with you!

2020 has been the year of immense changes, challenges and choices. The world as we knew it will never be the same.

Over the last decade, spirituality, entrepreneurship and work life have evolved into something extraordinary. More of us are working from home, with increased diversity & inclusivity initiatives, have changed the way we live.

In effort to support and serve the growing influence of heart based, women run Spiritual businesses, we are cultivating Brown Girls Who Coach. A thriving community, dynamic membership & sister circle for those who coach, counsel or support others as Healers, Coaches, Readers or small business solopreneurs.

Join us on Facebook and Instagram for up to date info and insights!

It has been quite a first half of the year for women. All over the globe, women’s voices have been rising. The #MeToo and #TimesUp movements have provided much fuel to the fire for sexual harassment & abuse, inequality and the pay gap. Yet with all the talk, policies and politics the movement is slow, separated and stagnant. Life continues as it always has until the next time.  The energetic, emotional triggers created have left many women anxious, angry and aggravated. Is this you? 

Never before in history have women made the their mark like this year. From the historical vote to keep to keep a predator out of office to Cardi B.’s money moves. As women we are rising out of the old paradigm and into a new one. Do you feel it? 

Come spend some time and discover how to embody, embrace and empower the Queen rising within.

The “Rise Queen Rise” 6 week Intensive will uncover ways to advance you towards your deepest desires while healing your Soul. This Sacred Summer School  is for ALL women. We are each, individually and collectively, Sisters in Spirit and Healers, it is time to bring Light to the uncharted territory within and around us. 

I Claim My Crown! Save my Spot!

At less than $75 per week! I guarantee this Intensive is worth EVERY penny. We will gather 2-3 times per week ensuring your support and healing are being experienced. 
(Payment Options are available)

As a Member, you will be a part of my sacred circle, I will be guiding, supporting and healing you everyday!
Enrollment is NOW open. 

I Claim My Crown! Save my Spot!

Over 6 weeks you will learn to embody the divine feminine, embrace your unique essence and empower the Queen within. 
Beginning with our mantra, 
“I am a Sacred, Sensuous and Successful Woman”  

Overview of Intensive

Over 6 weeks we will:

• Discover the 12 Divine Feminine Archetypes
• The Sacred Cycles of the Moon
• Reveal the 8 Sacred Money Archetypes 
• Examine and explore the Chakras that affect women the most!
• Rewrite & Heal your Money Story
• Uncover your Intuitive Intelligence
• Learn Tarot as a self directed spiritual practice
• Past Lives and Present Experiences 
• Yoga and Breath work 
• Daily spiritual practice & activities
• + MORE! 

Weekly Meetings
–  Mentoring Call 
–  Womb Wizdom – Healing the Sacred Self
–  Prayer/Healing Circle
 
Bi Weekly
–  Diversity Discussions 
–  Moon Meditation Gatherings 
+more! 

Discover More You! 

Testimonial May 15, 2018
 
Anna M. 

“About 6 months ago I was in a struggle and asked for help. The joy, that spark, the wonderful relationship with my partner and my children felt lost.
I joined the S.H.E inner circle with Tonya Gonzalez and continued with Be Your Own Oracle.
I am blessed and I am healed but I had to let it all go away, relationship was almost ended with my love and I accepted that I once again would be alone. But the joy, that spark, the trust and inner strength came back and I am happy again.
My relationship is full of love now and the communication is better and also with my two children 16 and 19. It started with the approval of myself and who I am.

I love myself and my new rituals are dancing, crystals, makeup, new clothes, tarot cards, my work as a massage therapist that allows me to heal people in pain.

Thank you for guiding me on my Journey. 🙏🏼
Love you
The distance between Sweden and Mexico feels so close.”

 

Sign Up Now! I Claim My Crown! Save my Spot!

Earlier this year, like millions I set out to make 2018 a better year than the last. One of my BIGGEST intentions was to begin doing Speaking engagements and Live events including hosting a Spiritual Retreat, to REALLY connect with you, my students, clients and friends. Well, you get what you ask for!!! 

As many of you know, I have had Kimra Luna as a private client for over 3 + years. Her work has been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur and countless others outlets around the world. Her work supporting women create their own businesses using their Brand is award winning. Kimra, has also served as my mentor and helped me chance my business from per Session to serving the world.

How BLESSED I am now to be a FEATURED Speaker in her upcoming LIVE NYC event alongside other AMAZING, Powerhouse Entrepreneurs including Nadia Finer, Wendy Porter and Elsa Issac. WOW!!! I will be sharing Meditation, Tarot Readings and Energy Healing for the 2 Day Event! 

What are you ready to Ask For Beloved. Now is the Perfect time as the Moon grows full. Setting intentions is a magical experience when harnessed with the Moon’s Glow. 

Be sure to stay connected for updates for my Private NYC event, Freebies and upcoming Workshops/Webinars. Check out the most recent posts to Sign Up NOW! 

Blessed Be! 

Writing has always been  my BIGGEST dream and deepest passion. It took years for me to unravel all the perceptions of why I could not do before I finally allowed myself to do it. Having my first co-authored book become an Amazon International Bestseller, “Opening with Grace & Gratitude” available below,  opened my eyes to the gifts I have the thing is allowing it to be shared.  I once wrote a poem called, “Now I know Why Writer’s Drink.” ( I will find it and share soon!) 

The second co- authored book also became a Bestseller. That officially makes me a Bestselling Author. One of my WILDEST dreams come true. 

It’s such an interesting thing to witness your growth through your own “wisdomed” words. So liberating to  to let them slip out of you for the world to see. It has been a journey worthy of unfolding, unearthing parts of me that had laid dormant. I am honored to share my latest wild, wise woman words with you via Patreon. CLICK HERE to VISIT and JOIN! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

March is a time when the first thaw reminds of the approaching Spring. It is a magical time of Rebirth, Restoration and Regeneration. Like Ostara/Easter it is a celebration of growth, abundance and evolution.

To ensure Healing is available to support this time of Personal Transformation, I have a few NEW Offerings, click the link below for further details.

3/17/18 FREE Book Club – “Women Who Run With the Wolves”

3/19/18 S.H.E. Magic Jars Webinar

3/20/18 Spring Equinox – Divination Board Webinar

3/21/18 “Be Your Own Oracle” Course begins.

3/31/18 22 Day S.H.E. Cleanse Begins.

Secure Your Space Now! Click here.

I created a few videos to share my process and transformation,  as well as, how I can support your Healing & Evolution. 

YouTube Channel Link

 

Ready to Empower Yourself Without Needing Another Reading?

 

Click Here to take the Power of Transformation in Your Own Hands. 

 

Discover yourself, sisterhood and the Divine Feminine. Relearn the women’s wisdom of our unique and collective experiences in a sacred space where you can let all your WILD out!! 

This FREE yearlong New Moon Gathering is a demonstration of my commitment to Serve. Share. Shine!

It’s more than a Book Club, it’s Energy Healing, Women’s History and Activism.

 Come learn some wonderful, womanly wisdom. 

Click Here to Join! 

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