Recognizing the importance of cedar to our culture

The Grade 9-12 class at the Teaching Lodge took
part in making and placing traditional cedar ties
above the doors and windows throughout our school
this winter. It is done for each season to keep bad
spirits and negative energy away, as well as to show
our commitment to honouring traditional teachings.

By Alyssa Chartrand, High School Student

There are a number of reasons why cedar is so
important to our culture and traditions.

• Spirit Protection: Considered the “Tree of Life” in
  Indigenous culture, cedar protects us. It is
  incredibly versatile. Every tree used to protect
  and sustain life.
• Medicine: Cedar is a highly revered, sacred
  medicine for Indigenous people. It cleanses
  negative energy and is used for purification and
  protection. 
• Ceremonies and Rituals: As one of the four
  sacred medicines (along with tobacco, sage and
  sweet grass), cedar is often used in traditional
  ceremonies. Most important of all, it is used to
  bridge the gap between the physical and
  spiritual worlds.

For me, I find cedar healing and calming. The scent
and aroma of cedar are used to calm the mind and
soul. It can be used to relieve and promote spiritual,
emotional and physical healing.