December is the 11th moon of the Anishinaabe lunar calendar and is known as Spirit Moon or Manidoo Dibik Giizis (Mu-ni-doh Du-bik Gi-zis).

Manidoo Dibik Giizis or Spirit Moon, is a time for going inwards, getting way from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. A natural cycle that is followed by the beings of the Air, Water, and Earth.

These beings are our guides to the natural cycles that have been created by Our Mother the Earth. This is a time to rest, reflect and nourish our body, mind and spirit, with nothing but love, warmth and a calming fire.

After all it is Spirit Moon!

We invite you to practice some of the traditional Anishinaabemowin greetings:

  • Aanii, Boozhoo – Hello (Anishinaabe)
  • Skano – Hello (Iroquois)
  • Tansi – Hello (Cree)
  • Mino Kizhep – Good morning (Anishinaabe)
  • Mino Shkwaa Naakwek – Good afternoon (Anishinaabe)

#ApartTogether we continue to explore Indigenous Teachings and share the diverse Indigenous heritage and languages.