by Ana L. Palles

Many Native traditions observe a ritual of calling in the directions as a means to set Sacred Space and as a preparation for healing and spiritual practices. Some use four directions, some six or seven. The prayers are often personalized but one thing always remains constant: the reverence and gratitude for the blessings that are gifted to us each day.

Peruvian shamans associate specific animals with each direction, while Celtic shamans will often incorporate the elements and trees into their medicine wheel. Some Native American tribes would call upon the Great Spirit, on Mother Earth, Spirit animals and the elements, offering tobacco, corn meal, pollen or other gift in gratitude for Spirit's blessings.

There are a number of prayers or methods used to call in the directions and they all vary depending on your particular heritage. Some use a tone or play a musical instrument such as a drum, a rattle, a didgeridoo or a flute to focus their intention on uniting heaven and earth within our hearts.

Here is an example of a prayer to call in the directions. Feel free to add or subtract to make it your own individual prayer. Remember that whether you are reciting a prayer, singing a tone, or simply bowing your head in thank you, it is what we call forward from our hearts that creates an enfolding space. 

Oh Spirit of the East, Land of the rising Sun, Of Air, the winds that blow across the lands. Of new beginnings each day. and of open horizons. We ask for your wisdom and blessing here with us today. Please join us, Spirit of the East.

Oh Spirit of the South, Place of Passion, Fire and Creation and inspiration, whose warm breath reminds us of summer days. Ignite our hearts with love. We ask for your wisdom and blessing here with us today. Please join us, Spirit of the South.

Oh Spirit of the West, the land of the setting Sun, Of water and Autumn's whisper. Bless us with the knowledge of the peace which follows the harvest of a fruitful life. We ask for your wisdom and blessing here today. Please join us, Spirit of the West.

Oh Spirit of the North, place of quiet, stillness, of cave and deep earth. Place of thankfulness for the knowledge and blessings that have come to us with time. We ask your wisdom and blessing here today. Please join us, Spirit of the North..

Oh Spirit of Mother Earth, you support us each day, welcoming our roots deep into your heart. You nurture and guide us finding sustenance and support. help us to give thanks Always for Your bounty. We ask for your wisdom and blessing here today. Please join us Spirit of Mother Earth.

Oh Spirit of Father Sky, of the angelic realms, the countless stars of the night remind us that you are vast beautiful and majestic beyond all of our knowing or understanding. Your light shines upon the earth both day and night guiding our steps. We ask for your wisdom and blessing here today. Please join us, Father Sky.

Oh Spirit of our souls within, Place of union, love and reverence. We are grateful for this gift of life and for the love that guides our way. We open our hearts and join with all in love. It is begun.