Season 1 Ep. 24 - Healing Through Burlesque with Serra Moanie

In this episode, Mariel welcomes guest speaker Serra Moanie, a talented burlesque performer, who opens up about her transformative journey into the world of burlesque and drag. Sarah shares how she discovered these art forms as powerful tools for self-care and healing after enduring a difficult relationship. She details how performing has not only aided her physical and mental recovery but also empowered her to reclaim her confidence and sense of self. Sarah's story includes her successful performances in Victoria and Vancouver, and her involvement in the upcoming IGNITE show to support at-risk youth in Nanaimo, showcasing how her passion has evolved into a force for positive change.

Joining the conversation, Serra brings her unique perspective, recounting her own experiences of leaving challenging situations to pursue a better and more fulfilling life. Serra emphasizes the importance of self-realization, course correction, and the creation of a holistic community. She discusses the crucial role of identifying one's needs and triggers, and how nourishing oneself through creative processes and supportive relationships can lead to profound personal growth. Serra's journey highlights the necessity of setting boundaries and seeking environments that respect and uphold one's sense of safety and dignity.

The discussion delves into the broader themes of curiosity, self-reflection, and the building of strong, intentional relationships. Serra introduces the concept of the imaginal awakening process, a metaphor for human transformation inspired by the metamorphosis of a caterpillar into a butterfly. This process, she explains, involves struggle but also provides opportunities for self-protection and evolution through the formation of nurturing communities.

Mariel and Serra explore the evolution of Serra's interest in burlesque, from her early experiences in Vancouver to her rediscovery of the art form later in life. Serra speaks passionately about the welcoming and diverse community she found, particularly in Victoria's strong BIPOC burlesque scene. She emphasizes the ceremonial aspects of her performances, which serve as transformative and transactional experiences that foster deep connections between performers and audiences.

Serra also shares her personal experiences with trauma and her journey towards healing, which includes reconnecting with her ancestral lines and founding a supportive community. She stresses the importance of creating safe spaces for individuals facing similar struggles, highlighting the role of community, love, and connection in achieving a fulfilling life. Josh expands on this idea, discussing the significance of ceremonies in addressing human needs for connection, intentionality, awe, and significance, often overlooked in contemporary Western culture.

The episode also covers practical mental health strategies. Serra discusses using sensory grounding techniques to manage dissociative episodes and help her children focus on the present moment. Mariel and Josh emphasize the importance of these techniques for joint regulation and their potential benefits for children and adults alike.

Throughout the conversation, Mariel, Josh, and Serra underscore the importance of introspection, setting boundaries, and creating intentional communities for personal growth and well-being. They encourage listeners to take responsibility for their own well-being, strive for deeper connections, and share their own tips and tools for mental health. Mariel concludes by reflecting on the idea that individuals often become what they need, a concept that resonates deeply with Serra's experiences and insights.