“Smudging” and Bacteria
Having spent many years in close association with First Nations people, through marriage into a west coast community, I came across this practice of “smudging” now and again. I held myself back from participation in this ritual on the occasions I encountered it because I was uneasy about the spiritual aspects of this cultural cleansing procedure and I did not see my husband participate at all. I relied heavily upon him for his knowledge and wisdom about matters relating to his own culture. It was also my understanding that, as a Christian, my spiritual cleansing came ultimately through the shed blood of Christ.
Here is a picture and a CBC article related to the practice of “smudging.
(Pic: http://www.cbc.ca article)
https://goo.gl/images/kxLb8B
I have garnered a great deal of respect for the First Nations people over the years and for the many things I came to discover in the culture that relate to healthy, wholesome teachings, values and lifestyles. I often find biblical parallels and take note of them.
One such incident that comes to mind right now is when I was called to a meeting of ladies that was gathered to help a widow in her grieving process. We were there to cry with her, because she had not cried. It was a beautiful meeting of the women of the village, with many words of wisdom spoken, much love and comfort offered, and many gentle tears shed.
“Rejoice with those who rejoice [sharing others’ joy], and weep with those who weep [sharing others’ grief].”
Romans 12:15 AMP
http://bible.com/8/rom.12.15.amp
It was normal for the community to gather for both sad occasions and happy occasions. Communal identification and empathy were paramount to First Nations life. Shared grief and joy. Life shared in all of its complexities.
But I digress. There is so much I could write. Back to my post topic for now…..
I found this article on studies that reveal some of the beneficial health aspects of “smudging”. It’s an interesting read. I learned some new things about the history of the practice and the fact that “smudging” may be one of the most powerful antiseptic technologies ever discovered” .
It has been shown that “smudging” eliminates dangerous bacteria from the air, for lasting periods of time. From this point of view, “smudging” does indeed have scientifically and medically proven cleansing properties. I’m glad to know this information and I wanted to share it with you.
Here it is, for those of you who are interested:
http://www.healthy-holistic-living.com/studies-reveal-smudging-eliminates-dangerous-bacteria-air.html?t=SH
AJ
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Interesting!
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I have heard about this practice but did not know about it. Thanks for the information.
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You are welcome. It was an education for me too…
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Reblogged this on Ancien Hippie.
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Thanks for the reblog! 🙂
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Thanks so much! 🙂
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