Granddaughter Crow’s "Hózhǫ́" offers a refreshing framework for self-understanding rooted in Indigenous wisdom rather than Western psychology. As a well-respected Navajo medicine woman, the author (Dr. Joy Gray) presents four bodies of existence—physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual—each with its own intelligence that operates independently yet relationally. This integrated approach forms the foundation for healing and authentic living. The book’s embedded journal prompts transform it from a theoretical text into a practical guide for genuine self-exploration.
In my experience decolonizing spaces, I found the author’s approach particularly insightful for those unlearning colonial mindsets, no matter where they are on the journey. What distinguishes Hozho is Granddaughter Crow’s layered authority and hybridity. As a biracial woman who navigated her Native identity and Dutch heritage, she was also raised as a Christian yet answered her calling to shamanic practice. In her own story, she embodies the very integration she teaches. Her personal narrative shows how understanding one’s internal narratives is essential to living honestly and authentically.
Hózhǫ́ is essential reading for anyone engaged in decolonial work, spiritual seekers, and those ready to challenge Western paradigms of self-actualization. Knowing about the different bodies of existence is an invitation to listen deeply to the lessons from our gut, heart, brain, and soul – to discover the truth of our being.
Editor's Note: This book review was originally published in Portland Book Review.
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