Metaphysical Healing Lesson 1 - Rev. Lefcourt

Master of Metaphysical Healing

Assignment 1

Rev. Kelly Lefcourt

 

Healing Practices in The United States

 

It is our Native American Indians that were first to practice Healing in the United States.  I would like to focus on The Cherokee Culture, as they are my decedents.  Cherokee medicine called NYWOTI is an ancient practice combining healing & spiritual knowledge that were developed over 4,00 years ago. It takes 15 – 20 years of apprenticeship (TSILA) to learn Cherokee medicine and the apprentice (tsila) needs to master seven areas of expertise.

 

They must be well versed in Herbal Medicine, Physical Medicine, Dreamwork, Language/Myths/Laws, Ceremonies, The Law of Nature and Conjuring. The use of herbs is only one tool of many used for healing. The Cherokee believed and still do believe that it is crucial to not only heal the body, mind and spirit, but to have the person with dis-ease commune with the family, the community and the Earth. This is a holistic approach used for centuries. It is important to good health to realize that we are part of one great source.

 

The Sweat Lodge is also another way that allows the person with dis-ease or dis-harmony in the mind/body/spirit to experience healing.  Traditionally the Healers construct near water.   Using various woods, herbs (Ginseng) and tobacco the Healers build a fire and place seven (7) rocks in it until they are red-hot.  The rocks are placed in the center of the sweat lodge and invite the community in.  They pour water on the rocks, sing songs and pray for the ill to get better.  Once they are finished they go to the water and bathe.

 

The Native American Indians also watch the animals to see what they ate or did when they were not well.  The Bear was a great teacher in learning what to use from nature.  When an animal was ill, they laid down on Mother Earth to feel better.  We all go back to Mother Earth for nurturing.

 

It has been shown that the first pharmaceuticals that were made by the pioneers in The United States were originated from the Native American Indians.  The Pharmaceutical industry grew out of the use of the medical healing plants. Over 200 medical drugs and there source can be linked back to Native Americans for their use of healing plants.  One of many is Aspirin.  It is found in the bark and leaves of the Willow tree, which was sometimes called "The Toothache Tree".

 

The variety of medicinal herbs in Western North Carolina is over 600 varieties that were and still are used by The Cherokee people.  Many Herbalists and Physicians underused or misused the botanical material and have since limited the varieties they use.  Traditional Medicine Men & Women today use these practices honoring their ancestors and knowing that they are helpful even in modern times.