Aboriginal Smoke Session

We observed and took part in an aboriginal cleansing session last week. We picked up a handful of sand and rubbed it on our hands to share some of us on it, said “kaya” (hello) to introduce ourselves to the “kep” (water). We said “keah” (thank you) and then a loud “wallah!” (forgot that meaning) as we scattered the sand in the water.

Then we each got a handful of eucalyptus leaves and rubbed ourselves on the leaves, dipped them in water, and dropped it on the smoke fire. We bathed in the smoke of eucalyptus and peppermint and breathed it in for calming and cleansing.

Then we were to pay our respects to the row of female elders there, greeting each one with a handshake and a thank you. They were introduced with the greatest of respect.

SMOKING CEREMONY 

(CLEANSING CEREMONY)

The smoking ceremony is a traditional Noongar ritual used to not only cleanse and purify a specific area but it cleanses the spirit, body and soul whilst you are on Noongar Boodja (Country). It also helps to ward off warra wirrin (bad spirits) and bring in the blessings of the kwop wirrin (good spirits).

The leaves and shavings from the balga (grass tree) smolder and the smoke purifies the area and prepares for a new beginning. This ritual of purification and unity signifies the beginning of something new.

The balga tree is the life tree. It provides medicine, food, shelter, warmth and healing.