Smoking Ceremonies
A Smoking ceremony is an ancient traditional ceremony conducted by Aboriginal Nations across Australia. It involves burning of specific native leaves to produce smoke. The smoke has cleansing properties and the ability to ward off bad spirits.
Whilst conducting a smoking ceremony, the participants walk through the smoke washing the smoke over themselves. This provides a safe passage and cleansing. Smoking ceremonies can also be conducted to cleanse areas or places.
Conducting smoking ceremonies can also be a sign of respect of place and country. Smoking ceremonies are conducted by Aboriginal people with specialised cultural knowledge such as Elder Aboriginal people with the spiritual knowledge or cultural teacher.
In modern context smoking ceremonies are a perfect way to embed Aboriginal perspectives, knowledge and traditions into your school or work community for events such as meetings, assemblies, opening of new buildings and other important events.