Mother Earth Medicine
by Jean Reddemann
April 22, 2010 is Earth Day; a day to honor Mother Earth and all that she provides. This gives us a chance to reflect on what we can do to walk upon her in harmony and balance. From the beginning of time humans have had a deep bond with and respect for the Earth. All that we physically need to survive comes from her. Our food, water, shelter, and even the air we breathe are all gifts from the earth. Living in harmony, respect and honor with Mother Earth is vital to our survival. Without her, we cease to exist.
The elders have taught us that the Creator created four men. The yellow man was assigned the job of protecting and keeping the waters of Mother Earth safe and healthy. The white man was assigned to be the keeper of the air. The black man was told to be the keeper of the fires. Lastly the red man was assigned to be the keeper of the earth. These were our jobs and we all failed. The waters are polluted as is the air. The sacred fires have burned low and the earth is destroyed in numerous ways. But it is not too late! We must hear the cry. We must be the new beginning that she needs. By first recognizing the pollution and destruction we can become part of the solution, not the problem. It’s a big job, but it can be achieved one person at a time.
On an individual level and in society we can focus on recycling, going green or organic, to mention but a few. But how did we get so far from our connection with the Mother Earth that these thoughts have had to become part of our consciousness? How did our ancestors find their way?
Mother earth provides all that we need in abundance. Our ancestors respectfully received these gifts in order to sustain the health and livelihood of their communities. In times past man never took more than he needed. Gathering foods and medicines was respectfully and thoughtfully undertaken. They were always mindful to leave that which would be necessary to continue the existence of that plant. Spiritual healers are the ancient counter parts to the modern day doctor, therapist, pharmacist and preacher. The healers of our ancestors found the gift of “Mother Earth’s Pharmacy” and utilized her in a responsible way. Plants were gathered and dried to make herbal teas and medicines. Similarly, in current times, tinctures and essential oils are created from plants by extraction and distillation methods. In this way, we preserve the life force or “blood” of the plant to be used as medicine.
As the plant kingdom provides for our physical health, it also provides that which we may need for our mental and spiritual health. Some plants are natural relaxants utilized to bring calming for the purpose of sleep, meditation and prayer. Others, such as St. John’s Wort, are strong anti-depressants. Incenses created from these plants by man bring out their healing properties. The smoke emitted from plants is an ancient method of relaxation, purification and protection from negative forces for numerous cultures across the globe.
Watching which plants are growing during the year is indicative of many things. For example, observing an abundance of cones on the trees one will know to prepare for a long hard winter. When St. John’s Wort is found growing in abundance, we know that there will be times of great stress and tension to come. When Ecanasia is prevalent in the Spring, the Earth is telling us that there will be a harsh cold and virus season to come. In this way, Mother Earth not only provides us with that which we need now, but also shows us what is to come during the year. The Earth takes care of us and prepares us for these hard times by providing us with a plethora of what we will need to combat these difficulties, be they physical, mental or physical. The natural law of Mother Earth states that if there are plants within her kingdom which may harm you, within 20 feet of it exists is the antidote. Although humans have disturbed this balance, it is not beyond our ability to restore it.
We also gain wisdom by observing animals and their habits. A perfect example of this is the deer. When the deer are being infected with deer ticks they find the teasle plant to eat. This is a natural cure for ticks. This observation has lead to the creation of a tincture of teasle to combat the effects of deer ticks on humans. As we as a society observe our surroundings, we can reclaim our connection with all of creation. Through this we will reclaim our earth, and the healing of all things can begin.
The Spring Equinox on March 21st provided us with the perfect opportunity to begin honoring Mother Earth and Creation. It is a time to give thanks for the introspection that we achieved during Winter and to give thanks for our survival. But most importantly, the equinox is a time of balance and new beginnings. This is the time to reflect on this ancient truth and focus our attention on Mother Earth. Becoming conscious of those things which are causing destruction and making a personal commitment to make the changes in our daily lives will impact the earth. It is also that time to pause and give thanks to Mother Earth for all which she provides. The native people recognize our connection with and responsibility to walk in balance, harmony and respect for Mother Earth. During this time of the Spring Equinox we celebrate this wonderful connection we have with all creation. When we make it a point to carry this connection throughout the year, we will have a deeper more spiritual relationship with our earth. Only through this mutual giving and receiving can we heal the destruction and regain our inherent connection.
Jean Reddemann is a spiritual therapist/indigenous healer with an office at Greensquare Center for the Healing Arts, a group of more than 14 therapists located at 6789 N. Green Bay Ave, Glendale, WI 53209. www.GreensquareCenter.com. Jean can be reached by contacting Greensquare at 414-292-3900 ext. 218. Clients are welcome to call for a personal consultation of to enroll in one of her monthly classes on spiritual growth and development.
The Earth is our Mother …
Walk gently upon her…
Give thanks for all that she provides.
