Indigenous Informed Practice

Smudging 

Smudging is a traditional practice that uses sacred medicines such as sage, cedar, sweetgrass, or tobacco to support spiritual, emotional, and physical wellbeing. People may smudge to clear the mind, honour relationships, or prepare for important work. At the Health Centre, smudging is welcomed as part of creating safe and respectful spaces for clients, staff, and community. 

Medicine Distribution Program

Individuals at the Health Centre are trained to support the distribution of traditional medicines – both immediately and in-person (smudging in a private, safe space with or without staff assistance) as well as the provision of traditional medicines for personal use away from the Health Centre. Medicines are harvested and prepared in a culturally sensitive manner following the customs and traditions of generations of medicine providers. 

Traditional medicines are not used the same way by every elder, medicine keeper, or band. For this reason, it is necessary to confirm that the person receiving these medicines has a cultural understanding of their use. If an awareness is not present, referral for a status person can be made to Southwest Ontario Aboriginal Health Access Centre (SOAHAC) or for non-status and urban services N’Amerind, London’s Friendship Centre. 

Ribbon Skirt Library 

In partnership with Atlohsa Family Healing, we offer a Ribbon Skirt Library where community members can borrow ribbon skirts for ceremonies, events, and teachings. Plans are underway to expand the library to include ribbon shirts and to host workshops for making these garments.