Acknowledging the Weight of September
Caring for Ourselves: Honouring Healing During Times of Reflection
As September unfolds, we enter a period of reflection and remembrance with the approach of the National Day for Truth & Reconciliation on September 30th. For survivors, their families, and impacted First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities, this time can be deeply emotional and stressful, with media coverage often reopening wounds and resurfacing painful memories.
At IRSSS, we stand with you, offering support, resources, and a listening ear. Healing is a shared journey, and it’s important to care for ourselves and each other during this time.
If you or someone you know needs support, remember that help is always available. Our 24-hour Crisis Line is here for you: 1 (800) 721-0066. Healing can begin with a single call.
For moments when we are not in crisis but still need comfort, traditional healing practices, like the Medicine Wheel, offer balance and guidance.
This image of the Medicine Wheel offers a list of examples that could work towards coping in each category – each person is different, and these items can be placed in different categories depending on the individual.
The Medicine Wheel: Culture-Based Self-Care Strategies
The Medicine Wheel is a sacred tool symbolizing balance and interconnectedness. Its four quadrants—physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual—offer a holistic approach to well-being, each tied to one of the four directions: East, South, West, and North.
NORTH Spiritual
Connect with Indigenous spirituality through prayer, meditation, or time spent in nature. Elders can offer guidance; reach out through our Cultural Support Line.
Play music
Smudge/cleanse
Give thanks
Connect with nature
Breathe
Sweat lodge
Meditate
Pray
SOUTH Mental
Nurture your mind with activities that stimulate growth and learning, such as reading, storytelling, or spending time in nature.
Drum
Create art
Garden
Tell stories
Work on Regalia
Help Elders
Read/journal
Unplug
EAST Emotional
Honor your emotions through healthy outlets like journaling, talking with loved ones, or participating in healing ceremonies.
Feel emotions
Think positively
Join ceremonies
Talk with others
Practice teachings
Speak to Creator/Elders
Be with family
Stay present
WEST Physical
Focus on your body through healthy foods, physical activity, and rest. Indigenous practices like smudging can also nurture physical wellness.
Dance
Clean
Hunt/fish
Make blankets/jewelry
Prepare food
Harvest medicines
Play games
Walk in nature
Nurturing all four areas of the Medicine Wheel can support overall wellness. Everyone’s healing journey is unique, so we encourage you to create your own self-care list or explore these suggestions as a starting point.
This September, let us honour the strength and resilience of Residential School Survivors by embracing sacred traditions, like the Medicine Wheel, that connect us to our roots and help heal our spirits.
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Please note that while the Medicine Wheel is a teaching held by many First Nations, it may not be a tradition shared by all Indigenous cultures. We acknowledge the importance of honoring diverse teachings and avoiding a pan-Indigenous perspective.