New Worlds of Body, Mind & Spirit Since 1901
| On the Pacific Northwest coast, the western red cedar-Thuja plicata - is called the "Tree of Life."
Local Indian myths speak of cedar as a gift from the creator, a tree that served the local people in both practical and sacred ways. Cedar wood was used for construction, baskets, clothing, and medicine. The wood was also used to create ceremonial vessels and masks, while the shavings were burned as a rich, aromatic incense. Create your own cedar shavings with a piece of wood and a pocketknife, or purchase a bag of cedar shavings from a pet store. Pile loose shavings on a charcoal pellet in a small iron cauldron or other thurible and burn to release the scent. For a longer-lasting scent, combine the shavings with shaved beeswax. Cedar is associated with grounding, mediation, and protection. Use it when your do energy work and feel the connection to ancient sacred Earth. |
