52 Ways to Reconcile: How to Walk with Indigenous Peoples on the Path to Healing - Week 26

Week 26 – Take Part in a Smudge and Learn about Sacred Medicines from Robertson, David A. 52 Ways to Reconcile: How to Walk with Indigenous Peoples on the Path to Healing

This week, we learn about the Four Sacred Medicines and the important role they play in many Indigenous cultures.

Sacred medicines are distinct from traditional medicines. Traditional medicines have been used for thousands of years and draw upon hundreds of plant species, including balsam fir, alder, wormwood, wild ginger, mint, white spruce, and many others.

The Four Sacred Medicines are tobacco, cedar, sweetgrass, and sage.

Tobacco is present in many ceremonies and is commonly used as an offering. It is traditionally offered with the left hand, the hand closest to the heart. A hunter may offer tobacco after a successful hunt as a way of giving thanks to the Creator. Tobacco is also offered when seeking help, guidance, protection, or knowledge.

Cedar is known as a protective medicine. It is used to help guard against unseen influences and negative energies. Many people describe cedar as a shield that offers protection from things that may disrupt balance in our lives. Cedar also has practical uses. When added to a bath, it may help improve circulation and stimulate metabolism. As a tea, it can be a source of vitamin C.

Sweetgrass is often associated with kindness, positivity, and connection. It is commonly used in ceremonies, including smudging. During the era of Residential Schools, some children braided sweetgrass into their hair as a way of maintaining a connection to Mother Earth. Its sweet scent could evoke comforting memories of home and family.

Sage is used for cleansing and protection, particularly from our own internal struggles. It is considered a stronger cleansing medicine than sweetgrass and is often used alongside it in ceremonies. Sage can help bring clarity and calm, supporting us as we work through anxiety, self-doubt, troubling thoughts, and negative self-talk. It encourages a clearer mind and more thoughtful decision-making.

As Robertson reminds us, learning about sacred medicines also invites us to learn about smudging. During a smudge, the smoke from burning sacred medicines is gently drawn toward the body, heart, ears, mouth, and mind. The practice is intended to cleanse, ground, and bring clarity.

This week, consider participating in or learning more about a smudge. If you are unfamiliar with the practice, reach out to a local Indigenous organization or Knowledge Keeper who can teach you about its meaning and proper protocols.

Kinanâskomitin,

Jennifer

Want to read last weeks post, you can do so here.