Connecting with culture....
...for life
A site for Indigenous Youth who know the value of culture and living their best life, but need a little help getting there.
BELONGING
MEANING
PURPOSE
What does culture have to do with how I feel?
Each and every one of us is born with spirit. One’s spirit desires to live life to the fullest. Culture is the facilitator of spiritual expression. It is the foundation of a ‘good life’.
As Indigenous people, we have a wealth of knowledge from which to draw to know how to live in balance, to care for ourselves, and others. This knowledge remains with us, despite experiences with colonization, residential schools and racism.
There is not ‘one’ culture in Canada, because culture is defined by the land, language and Nation of the people. Indigenous traditions, ceremonies and practices connect us to our culture. They help us create wellness in our lives by balancing the spirit, heart, mind and body.
We know that when culture is present in our lives, we experience higher levels of wellbeing. If you are unsure how to reconnect with culture, see below.
Aren't sure how you can connect with your culture?
If you find yourself unsure how to connect with culture, you’re not alone.
Many of us have become disconnected with culture, for a number of reasons. Reconnecting with culture can be the most powerful and meaningful thing you can do for yourself and your wellbeing.
We know the power of language in our own wellness. Language gives us perspective on our own lives and the world around us. It is at the heart of our connection with culture. But it’s ok if you don’t speak your own language. There are many options today, from enrolling in a language class, to downloading an app; learning our own language, starting with just a few words, just got a lot easier.
When trying to connect with culture, it is important to know that many cultural activities require a cultural teacher to understand why we do what we do, such as learning the protocols during a sweat lodge ceremony or rite of passage ceremony. But there are other activities, such as social dancing, social singing, smudging and praying, that we can do on our own.
Ideas for self care
- Remember, to keep calm
- Remind yourself that no matter how bad life seems, Go to the water
- Go for a walk
- Meditate
- Learn about spending time on the land and reconnecting with Creation
- Practice staying in the moment, being mindful
- Talk to someone you trust
- Help someone/volunteer
- Create something, through art, music, written word
- It is important to know that just as the Sun rises every day, our Mother the Earth provides her love for us everyday.