Balm in Gilead is Kingston’s latest addition to a growing number of alternative wellness retailers, celebrating its grand opening on Thursday, May 8 from 4-8pm with a DIY herbal tea workshop.
The operation is run by clinical herbalist Cyrée Jarelle Johnson, who invites the public to come tour the shop and walk away with complementary herbal teas concocted to improve sleep.
The retailer will be occupying the Blackbird Infoshop at 587 Abeel Street, “a collectively-run anarchist and anti-capitalist community space operating on unceded Munsee and Muhhicanneok Territories in so-called Kingston, NY.” Note that the shop requires visitors wear a well-fitting high-quality mask/respirator inside at all times. Masks are available.
The phrase “balm in Gilead” originates from the Bible and refers to a healing ointment made from resinous plants found in the region of Gilead, east of the Jordan River. In biblical literature, it is often used metaphorically to represent healing, comfort, or relief, especially in times of suffering or spiritual despair. The phrase was later adopted into African American spirituals, most famously in the song “There Is a Balm in Gilead,” where it became a symbol of hope and divine healing.
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