Smudging 

The four sacred medicines:

• Tobacco

• Sage

• Cedar

• Sweetgrass

Smudging is a tradition common to many First Nations across Turtle Island. Smudging involves the burning of medicines gathered from the earth. The four sacred medicines—Tobacco, Sage, Cedar, and Sweetgrass—can be used in smudging. Smudging has been passed down from generation to generation and there are many ways to perform a smudge.

When people smudge, they allow themselves to stop, slow down, and be more mindful and centred. Smudging allows people to remember, connect, and be grounded in the event, activity, or task at hand. Smudging allows people to let go of negative thoughts and feelings. 

Smudging is always voluntary.