Summer Wellness the Indigenous Way: Traditional Teachings for Modern Health
By Michelle Nieviadomy
As we celebrate the summer solstice and a new season change, reflection is a good way to close one season while anticipating what is to come in this next season. One of my favourite stories to reflect on as the summer season approaches is the story of how the strawberry came to be. This beautiful heart-shaped berry graces us with its presence during the summer months, so it is fitting that this is one of the teachings that leads the way. As Indigenous peoples, we have so many stories and teachings that inspire us, guide us and even challenge us to live the good life (miyo pimatsowin!)
With the mere mention of a strawberry, you are probably reminded of its distinct fruity aroma and are wondering how good some strawberry shortcake would be right about now! Although a strawberry alone has the potential to fill our bellies with flavour and goodness, its teachings can also fill our mind, heart and spirit too!
This little heart-shaped berry can bring powerful teaching. For me, emotional health and healing are the core of this teaching: forgive fast and choose love always. While on our human journey, we experience pain, loss and heartbreak in relationships. We can go through many seasons holding onto grudges and unforgiveness, which can get in the way of a life meant for abundance. This summer, may we choose good health in the spirit of love and forgiveness.
Sometimes that forgiveness needs to be turned inward. What are the ways in which we have neglected our own health and well-being? What are the ways we have not been kind to ourselves? What are the ways that we have forgotten our sacred responsibility of self-care? Perhaps this summer is the return to love. Return to your own love in mind, heart, body and spirit.
Be a good relative to yourself with words of affirmation. Wake up with the sun & choose a good thought about yourself before your day begins!
Be a good relative to others! Cultivate good relationships with other people by listening and sharing stories. You never know how much your presence and words may be just what other people needed that day! Connecting with other people is good for the heart. Find good people to share what’s in your heart and give your emotions a place to be fully felt.
Be a good relative to the land. Mother Earth has given us so many gifts that help us to live well. You have abundance all around you, so tap into her beautiful resources for hydration, nourishment, teaching and connection.
Treat your body with good hydration because water is life after all. Eat nutritious foods harvested from the land- remember those strawberries! Go outside once a day to observe the beauty of the sky, the smell of freshly cut grass, the sound of the birds chirping or pick a flower. Appreciate the miracles of life all around you, for you are never alone.
Be a good relative to the Source of love. Before the sun sets, offer gratitude for what transpired in the day! Every day may not be a good day, but good can be found in every day if you look for it.
I hope this season, you experience the goodness all around you and within you!
Michelle Nieviadomy
Michelle Nieviadomy is the owner of Iskwew Health (iskwewhealth.com). With over 17 years of experience in Indigenous health and wellness, Michelle’s work is rooted in holistic healing, cultural grounding and community empowerment. This self-love coach is versatile, enthusiastic and engaging to various audiences across the province. In addition to being a yoga, Zumba and fitness instructor, she is a mental health therapist. She has called Edmonton her home for 20 years, while her roots are in Saskatchewan. This Cree woman is a proud member of Kawacatoose First Nation. She loves dancing, rose quartz and hopes to have a pet dog one day!
