As a history major, I was always fascinated by my family's past. I crafted a family tree, cherished the stories my grandparents and parents recounted, and even contributed to a book about concentration camp survivors (my grandfather was in Dachau and Buchenwald). Additionally, I never understood why others weren't eager to learn more about their families—were they afraid of what they might uncover?

I believe one reason individuals in modern society feel disconnected is their lack of a true sense of belonging. Frequent relocations for work or education can disrupt social ties, making it challenging to establish long-lasting relationships. Increasing levels of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues can also lead to feelings of disconnection. Although social media connects people worldwide, it can also encourage superficial interactions and a sense of isolation.

But what if starting listening to your ancestral DNA could be part of the process of returning to your true self? What happens when you recognize your place on earth, and realize that the DNA of your ancestors resides in your cells and it can help you discover what exactly makes you YOU?

How to Reconnect with Your Ancestry

1. DNA testing

More than 26 million people worldwide have undergone genetic ancestry testing by direct-to-consumer companies. Why? Because learning about your ancestry can help you feel more connected to your cultural roots and understand more about your family's history.
Moreover, knowing your family history can also help you to appreciate different cultures and open your mind.

Genetic ancestry testing offers insights into the geographic origins of a person's ancestors and can provide information useful for evaluating the risk of certain hereditary conditions. However, its accuracy is constrained by historical migrations and the intermingling of populations. Throughout human history, countless migrations, wars, famines, family separations, and traumas have occurred. Over the years, a significant amount of knowledge and many authentic historical narratives (not merely the ones taught in schools, frequently written by the victors) have been forgotten.

I find this exploration very thrilling although it is a lifelong treasure hunt, where fragments come to light as you move from one clue to the next.

2. Get to know your homelands

Once you have a clear understanding of the origins of your people, select one location and delve deeply to gain a better grasp of the land.
Research the history of these areas to comprehend who held power and when. Discover the timing of major wars, famines, and the onset of industrialization.
The more you understand the history and topography of the land (and develop a deeper sense of place), the easier it becomes to capture what your people experienced. The more you can pinpoint a specific bioregion (with its lakes, mountains, valleys, etc.), the easier it is for you to immerse yourself in the experiences of your ancestors who lived there.

3. Read your family's stories

If you can access family stories, whether by speaking with relatives or through written documents, make sure to obtain them. Record a conversation with your grandmother. Copy old diaries. Print out photo memories. In today's world, we have the ability to explore numerous clues and treasures of our lineage through digital public records. You can begin by signing up for a trial account on Ancestry.com and conducting some research there.

4. Build an Ancestor Altar

To concentrate your intentions and invite ancestors into your environment, create an altar dedicated to them. I prefer to begin by placing items that belonged to my ancestors on it, along with photographs. Then, I incorporate small elements from nature that reflect the energy of the season (as our ancestors were more in tune with the seasons than we are today) and anything else that resonates with me. You can light a candle and communicate with your ancestors, expressing gratitude, seeking protection, and ensuring only positive intentions. This practice of devotion to connecting more deeply with your ancestors through an altar can be very powerful.

5. Connecting with your ancestors in the dreamworld

The dream realm offers powerful insights for our daily lives. It is a magical space that allows us to connect more deeply with our desires and heal past wounds. Dream space fosters regenerative creativity, nourished by both waking and dream life, each continuously supporting the other. In ancient times, dreams were used to uncover truth, connect with the spirit, and navigate life's mysteries. Many cultures appointed a respected elder to interpret and make meaningful connections through their dreams.

6. Connect with your people via customs, rituals and food

Enjoying the traditional dishes your ancestors prepared, listening to their folk music, observing and learning their folk dances, and engaging with the age-old myths and folktales that have endured over time is an excellent way to connect with your heritage. It’s crucial to engage with these cultural practices of your people because they are the traditions that have withstood the expansion of empires across generations and around the globe.

7. Go on an Ancestral Pilgrimage

If you get the chance, I highly recommend visiting your ancestral lands to connect with the earth, experience the water, enjoy the food, and breathe the air.

Do some research beforehand to organize trips to important locations associated with your distant ancestors, like holy wells, sacred burial sites, and communal areas. Make an effort to see the village where one of your ancestors was born. Find their burial place and visit to show appreciation and respect.