Maintaining a balance between body, mind and spirit and living in harmony with nature is the basis for Native American healing practices. Traditional healers believe the distractions of modern culture distance people from their emotional life and interfere with the time necessary to relax and renew the body's energies. In the study conducted by Lewis Mehl-Madrona, M.D., of the University of Saskatchewan College of Medicine, 80 percent of the participants who engaged in an intensive healing regimen that included education and immersion in healing techniques reported a positive healing experience. Because traditional healing remedies may conflict with conventional medical treatment, it is important to share any use of alternative practices with your physician.
Herbs
Herbs are a foundation of Native American healing remedies. Historically, indigenous plants served as a source of nutrition, tools and clothing as well as powerful medicine. Willow bark for pain relief and echinacea to enhance the immune system are recognized as healing agents by native people throughout the continent. Calendula, or marigold, is a common treatment for rashes and sunburn, and the leaves of the arnica plant are used to relieve bruising and muscle pain. Native Americans believe the collection and preparation of healing plants is a spiritual process necessary for healing to occur, notes "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition."
Sweat Lodges
Native Americans honor the sweat lodge as a means to purify the body and bring balance and health to the mind, spirit and emotions. The type and construction of the sweat lodge varies between nations, as does the protocol for attendance and behavior. Sage leaves for purification and prayer may be a part of the sweat lodge ritual, although specific activities are generally kept private to protect native culture and the healing abilities.
Drumming
Most indigenous societies recognize sound and rhythm as an important factor in the healing process. In Native American culture, the drum beat represents the human heartbeat and is often played to match the resonance of the earth's basic frequency. Drumming helps to access a meditative state believed necessary to affect the healing energies and access the spiritual dimension.
Rituals and Ceremonies
Spiritual rites, such as dancing, singing, chanting and sand painting, are often important aspects of traditional healing ceremonies. Wind instruments, such as the Native American flute, are considered a form of prayer; they play an important role in healing circles. Healing rituals may be limited to a few participants or structured to involve the entire community. As with many traditional healing practices, ceremonies are deemed sacred and not generally shared with those outside the native community.
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