Creating sacred Prayer Trees - remembering that we are all connected
Mother Shaman Prayer Tree, Mongolia (2014)
In Sandra Ingerman's book "How to Thrive in Changing Times," she wrote about the tradition of creating a prayer tree that comes out of Siberia. When I did my Medicine for the Earth and Healing with Spiritual Light training with Sandra in New Mexico, she had taught the group how to do this.
Guided by my spirits and ancestors, I recently created a Prayer Tree in my garden by honoring the Sacred Birch. I also wanted to make peace with it as I am highly allergic to its pollen! I invited my friends and family to tie their prayers (with ribbons) and to give thanks to the Earth. I must say that this simple act of honoring Nature has created so much beauty in my life. It reminds us of who we truly are and that we are all children of the Earth, all connected by all our "roots" beneath the earth.
This is an excerpt from Sandra's article in the Huffington Post about creating a Prayer Tree:
"In indigenous cultures it is believed that everything that is alive has a spirit and we live in partnership with the spirit that lives in all things. For it is believed that all of life is connected to a web of life. And together with all of life we live in a place of cooperation and partnership. It is important to honor and respect all of life that is connected to this amazing web.
In Siberia, trees are seen as seen as sacred as they bridge the heaven and the earth. There is a wonderful shamanic tradition in Siberia of creating a prayer tree. Traditional food and drink offerings are left by the tree. The shaman in the community chants and gives thanks to the helping spirits for carrying the prayers of the people up to the universe so that the dreams manifest back on earth.
People tie ribbons loosely on the branches of the tree. As the tree will continue to grow it is important not to choke the branch with a ribbon that is tied on too tight.The ribbons tied on the tree are empowered by individuals in the community with personal prayers as well as prayers for loved ones, families and for the community itself.
When we can experience our gratefulness for life we transform our perspective about what is happening in our own lives and on the planet. For when we feel grateful we can experience the beauty instead of the pain. We want to acknowledge those who are suffering and feel compassion. At the same time it is important to experience the beauty and the gifts that life brings for us. This is an ancient teaching that has been passed down through many cultures and many generations", Sandra Ingerman, shaman, teacher, author (www.sandraingerman.com).
I am happy to help you create your own Prayer Tree on your land, park or garden! May you walk in beauty, peace and joy!
Blessings and love,
Jacqueline