Winter has arrived in much of northern Turtle Island, and the landscape has transformed, blanketed in snow that both conceals and reveals. This season provides an ideal backdrop for learning the ancient art of wildlife tracking. Snow is a blank canvas where animals leave stories written in their footprints, trails, and other subtle signs. For those new to tracking, winter offers a unique opportunity to see animal behaviors and habits clearly, almost like flipping through the pages of a well-worn book.

Traditional Ecological Knowledge (relational environmentalism) is grounded in the profound understanding that humans are inextricably connected to all life forms. This relationship is not one of dominance or ownership but of mutual respect, responsibility, and balance. For Indigenous peoples, the land, water, animals, plants, and even the sun, moon, and cosmos are not mere resources to be exploited but relatives to be honored.

The use of plants that affect human consciousness dates back thousands of years to the earliest gathering of human society into tribes, clans, sects, and other cultural organizations. Over the millennia, people discovered, used, and shared ever-increasing knowledge of psychoactive plants and fungi and their effects on the human body, mind, and spirit.

The Anasazi, also known as the Ancestral Puebloans, was a Native American civilization that flourished in southwestern Turtle Island from around 100 BCE to 1300 CE. They are known for their impressive cliff dwellings, intricate pottery, and sophisticated irrigation systems.

From the Paleo Indians to the indigenous peoples of Turtle Island, the use of wild plants for medicinal and ceremonial smoking has a rich and fascinating history. While many are familiar with the ritualistic use of sage (Artemisia) or cedar (Thuja), there is a treasure trove of lesser-known plants that have been used for centuries. This article explores the taxonomy, historical indigenous uses, and how to use five common North American wild plants for smoking as natural remedies.

For countless generations, indigenous peoples of North America have relied on the natural bounty of their lands to maintain health and well-being. One ancient tradition that endures today is using herbal teas in healing baths. In this article, we will delve into the rich history of indigenous herbalism and explore how traditional knowledge has been passed down through generations. We will also discuss the benefits of incorporating herbal teas into your bathing rituals, connecting with the Earth, and harnessing the healing properties of these remarkable plants.

Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja), with its vibrant, flame-like blooms, is a native North American wildflower that has been revered for centuries, perhaps millennia by indigenous communities and has found new relevance in modern times. This captivating plant symbolizes tradition and utility, embodying a rich history of cultural significance and practical uses. In this article, we will delve into the world of Indian Paintbrush, its description and identification, traditional Native American applications, and modern-day uses.

The Ute nation, rooted in the expansive lands of the Great Basin and Colorado Plateau, is rich with traditions, mythology, and a profound connection to the natural world. Central to Ute culture is the bear, which holds a significant place in Ute folklore, herbal medicine, and as a symbol of strength and healing. In this article, we will explore the bear's role as the first Healer in Ute culture, delve into Ute bear mythology, and discuss specific wild herbs closely associated with the bear.

The forest is a place of mystery and tranquility, where nature's wonders thrive in a world of whispers. For those who seek to explore and appreciate the wilderness, quiet forest movement is an essential skill. Mastering the art of moving silently in the woods not only allows you to experience the magic of the forest but also provides the opportunity to encounter wildlife in their natural habitat.

In this article, we will delve into the techniques for quiet forest movement and how this skill can enhance your ability to see and appreciate more wildlife.

In the sun-scorched landscapes of the American Southwest, the pinyon pine stands as a resilient symbol of nature's bounty. With a history deeply rooted in Native American cultures, this evergreen tree has been a vital source of sustenance and tradition for centuries. In this article, we will explore the historical significance of the pinyon pine, take a look at its unique characteristics, and uncover its modern-day uses for foragers.

For thousands of years, humans have consumed chia seeds, the edible seeds of Salvia hispanica, a flowering plant in the mint family (Lamiaceae) native to central and southern Mexico are tiny black or white seeds native to Central America. The Aztec and Mayan civilizations considered chia seeds a staple food and highly valued them for their nutritional benefits. These cultures also recognized the seeds' energy-boosting properties, and their warriors and scouts, including the Apache (Indé) scouts and Geronimo (Goyaałé), used them during long expeditions to maintain their endurance and focus.

We're excited to introduce you to our new blog, "In The Old Way Journal," where we embark on a captivating journey through the traditional plant uses and earth-based lifeways of Native North America.