Ancient Traditions that Celebrate
the Natural World

Beliefs and traditions were a very important part of every First Nations and Inuit culture and often reflected a deep understanding and respect for nature. Their stories, dances, songs, art and spiritual rituals had a great deal of meaning and symbolism for everyone in the tribe.

 

On the Northwest coast, many tribes would have prayers and ceremonies every year to welcome and help the salmon who were swimming up the rivers to lay their eggs. They believed that everything in the natural world has a spirit.

In the Arctic, Inuit elders enjoyed telling stories to the children, which really were lessons about their values, beliefs and knowledge of the land. The Inuit are well known for their beautiful stone carvings, which often show the creatures and characters from these stories.

Many Subarctic tribes told myths and legends about a time when animals were very powerful and could take on human form. These stories taught lessons about how nature and people really depend on one another.

The Blackfoot people on the Great Plains held a Sun Dance at the beginning of the summer to symbolize the earth renewing itself as a living being. The dance was a celebration to honour the buffalo, which they believed was the source of all life.

The people who lived in the Plateau area believed the trees and rocks and everything around them had special powers. When children reached a certain age, they had to take special training so that they could receive a spiritual gift and a “power song” from their nature-helper spirit.

The Iroquois farmers from the Eastern Woodlands believed in Great Spirits that came from nature and made the seasons change. Many of their festivals and rituals were held to protect and celebrate their crops and harvest times.

These are only a few examples of aboriginal traditions from all across Canada. Can you think of a tradition, a belief or a story told in your family or community that celebrates your connection to nature?