By Donation starting at $5, please register, for adults and teens 16+
The Medicine Wheel and Smudging are an integral part of many First Nations and Indigenous cultures throughout Turtle Island. Chantal Chagnon shares the Teachings, Stories, History and Science behind Smudging and the Medicine Wheel. Smudging is a sacred way to cleanse, balance, understand and connect to Mother Earth. The medicines used honour the teachings of Four Directions of the Medicine Wheel. We honour and value each medicine is part of the Medicine Wheel that balances and sustains us. We will gain a deeper understanding of the balance and stories for each direction and Plant. Each individual may have a stronger connection to a particular medicine or direction depending on what is needed in their life at the time.
Chantal delves into the science behind the Medicines and explains how every Nation has their own unique way of looking at and learning from the Medicine Wheel. Although traditions, medicines and stories may be slightly different depending on the Nation, Region or individual sharing the teachings, the message is always of balance and healing. Chantal will share the importance of protocol and how to harvest medicine sustainably and respectfully. Chantal will explain the significance and balance of the Smudge, why we do it, the science and story behind it as we participate in a Traditional Smudge ceremony together.
Chantal will then lead us into creating a Medicine Bag. Medicine Bags, also called Medicine Pouches, carry our four sacred medicines close to our hearts. They protect and guide us along our journey, reminding us of our connection to Mother Earth, all living things and ourselves. Sometimes they contain stones, shells, feathers, keepsakes or items of significance in addition to the sacred medicines.
Materials we will use in this workshop include:
The Four Sacred Medicines - Sweetgrass, Cedar, Sage and Cansasa (Red Willow Bark in Place of Tobacco)
Deer, Moose, Elk or Buffalo Hide for the Bags
Suede or Leather Lacing
Bone or Antler Beads for Button Closure
Sinew for Stitching
About Chantal Chagnon
Chantal Chagnon is a Cree/Métis Multidisciplinary Artist, Educator, Knowledge Keeper and Activist with roots in Muskeg Lake Cree Nation, Saskatchewan. Cultural Wisdom and Traditional Ceremony are always present in her Teaching Artistry, as she carries her Ancestral Knowledge forward in a good way. Offering Storytelling, Songs, Drumming, Cultural Teachings, Traditional Indigenous Craftsmanship, Art Creation and collaboration has allowed Chantal to share throughout Canada and the World.
Chantal is a Two Spirit single mother of four, overcoming difficult personal experiences has cultivated a deep understanding of societal struggle. Chantal has been an activist organizing events and publicly speaking as an advocate for over 30 years. Chantal recognizes connections, culture and community are integral parts of creating understanding and acceptance. Chantal believes an equitable, sustainable World is possible when we honour Mother Earth, Learn from our Ancestors and acknowledge our Responsibility to leave a better World for Future Generations.