The medi cine bag is an item that has been used by many cultures and indigenous tribes throughout history. The bag, which can be a small pouch or a larger bag, holds a variety of objects such as crystals, feathers, leaves or stones. Although a medicine bag is traditionally carried by a shaman or a Medicine Man, anyone can carry their own personal medicine bag. The purpose of the medicine bag is to bring protection, healing and spiritual guidance. The energy and significance of the items in the bag helps you connect with your inner spirit and the wisdom of your spirit guides.
Creating a Medicine Bag
Making your own medicine bag can be an enjoyable and enriching experience. The bag in which you put your sacred items can be either handmade or purchased. Either way, it should be made of either leather or some type of durable natural fabric. You can leave the bag unadorned or you can decorate it with designs and symbols that are spiritually meaningful to you. The size of the bag is also based on personal preference, but it’s best not to have one that is too large and cumbersome.
Take your time in choosing which items you want to put into your medicine bag. They should represent what is personally empowering and meaningful to you. For example, if you are seeking greater balance in your life you may add a dried herb such as sage or sweet grass. For healing you may add a clear quartz crystal, or jade, and for greater compassion you may add rose quartz. If you have an animal totem you can add a figure or symbol that represents your totem. You can also add items you’ve picked up while out in nature such as a stone, feather, branch or seed pod.
Before adding the items to your bag, take a few moments to bless them. Focus upon the healing, empowering and protective purpose of your medicine bag as you do this. This bag will now be your connection to your spirit and will help you be more aware of the sacred that is within you. Because your medicine bag is a personal holy item, it shouldn’t be opened or handled by anyone but you.
Over time you may come across other items you’d like to add to your medicine bag, so feel free to add these too. This is your sacred item and one that can bring you great spiritual enrichment.
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