"Water Connects Us to Our Ancestors' Dreams"

Reflections on Water, Regeneration, and Ancestral Stewardship in Brazil

Picture a serene village nestled in the heart of Brazil's state of Bahia, a place where the pace of life seems to synchronise with the rhythm of nature. Here, in Chapada Diamantina National Park, a former diamond mine that is now a sanctuary of natural beauty, I discovered a place where time slowed, allowing for regeneration to occur, healing both the land and its people from past traumas. This stunning landscape became my home for a week, gifting me with unexpected insights and nurturing a deeply intimate connection to the "more than human" world, reshaping how I will more consciously engage with the world around me.

I unexpectedly found myself embarking on a personal Vision Quest that thrust me into a world beyond the labels of "developed," "developing," or "underdeveloped." These terms, which have been shaped and perpetuated by histories of colonisation and extraction, appeared to lose their significance in the face of the transformative journey I was undertaking.

As I delved into this new world, I realised that these divisive labels, often used to categorise countries and economies, fail to encapsulate the deep complexities of our interconnected existence. The language of "developed" suggests a hierarchy and linear progression, implying that certain societies have reached a pinnacle of advancement while others lag behind. This perspective not only oversimplifies the intricate web of human experience but also perpetuates a sense of superiority and inferiority.

Likewise, the terms "developing" and "underdeveloped" carry a similar weight, hinting at a linear path toward modernisation and economic growth. Yet, this binary classification overlooks the rich tapestry of cultures, histories, and ways of life that exist within these diverse regions. It reduces entire societies to a single narrative, negating the dynamic stories of resilience, adaptation, innovation and regeneration that unfold in every corner of the globe.

My experience in the heart of Bahia reinforced the limitations of these labels. In a place where nature is not an abstract concept but an integral part of life's tapestry, these terms are irrelevant. The interconnectedness of all beings and the fluidity of existence highlighted that development isn't a linear trajectory but a multifaceted journey of growth, balance, and harmony.

This insight reminds us to break free from these restrictive and misleading labels and embrace a broader view of life. As we navigate our interconnected world, we must recognise the nuances and complexities that shape each society's unique path. By embracing a language that values diversity, mutual learning, and shared wisdom, we can pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future. Just as nature thrives on diversity, so too does our humanity when we celebrate the richness of our collective human (and “more than human”) experience.

In this "Diamond Plateau," water takes on a new dimension, shifting from a simple element to a deep connection. Taking a plunge isn't just about a brief immersion; it's an act of seeking permission, a personal acknowledgment that the water within us mingles with the water we were surrounded by. It's a connection that resonates within our bodies, etching a memory into our very physical being. These Gardens of Eden, with their serene water havens, become more than mere swimming spots – they transform into bridges, seamlessly uniting your inner essence with the soothing touch of the water.

As I reflect on this journey, it's impossible not to draw connections to a project I had started just before heading out to this Brazilian adventure. Charity:Water had extended an invitation to me, among other artists, with a creative brief: to transform a jerrycan into a work of art. The jerrycan I received was similar to those used by countless women and children in regions profoundly affected by climate change, often crossing vast distances to transport water. This project's research not only deepened my understanding but also brought into sharp focus the sacred and ancestral relationship that many Indigenous Peoples share with water – an essence beautifully encapsulated in the words, "Water Connects Us to Our Ancestors' Dreams." Here, in my mountain home decisions aren't just about practicality or control. They're shaped by unity, a connection often missing in choices driven by productivity, efficiency or dominance. Nature isn't just a resource or a challenge; it's a complex creation woven with understanding, kindness, and coexistence.

As the sun dipped below the horizon and night unfolded, this perspective gently replaced my own fears and anxieties about the darkness ahead. Curiosity and awe replaced apprehension as I tuned into the ever-shifting soundscape. The transition from day to dusk to night transformed into a symphony of life's rhythm, not a chorus of threats. I have now developed a deep fondness for the nocturnal sounds of insects. It's the very core of nature – where each being contributes to the dance of existence, rather than striving for control. It's the beauty of diversity and the essence of kinship in its purest form.

I learnt a lot from my incredibly generous host, Simone, and the many women who lived or were visiting the village. They reminded me that nature's perceived aggression often stems from intrusion and a battle for dominance. Coexistence thrives on an unspoken understanding – a respect for homes, young ones, and peaceful cohabitation. In a world often dominated by the myths of productivity and uniformity, a profound lesson has emerged from my sojourn into nature. My adventure in the Brazilian mountains brought to light a fundamental truth: regeneration is key. This understanding deepened during my time in Chapada Diamantina. Just as various species thrive together in ecosystems, human values can also harmonise. The important thing is to match these values with the natural cycle of renewal. In this extraordinary world, the connection between humans and nature goes beyond simple transactions. Water, acting as a bridge between the physical and spiritual, represents a deep bond with our surroundings. 

Returning from this transformative journey, the lessons and memories of renewal resonate deeply within me. This heightened sense of awareness moves me to infuse more empathy, compassion, coexistence, and a dedicated commitment to embracing regeneration and a regenerative mindset into my daily life. As I embark on the next phase of cyborg shamanism it also encourages me to continue to reflect deeply on the type of ancestor that I want to be – someone who leaves a legacy of harmony, empathy, and a profound appreciation for life's intricate dance.