The Lakota Medicine Wheel Animals: A Guide to the Sacred Teachings
The Lakota medicine wheel is a sacred symbol of the Lakota people, also known as the Teton Sioux. It is a circle divided into four quadrants, each representing a direction, an element, a season, and a color. The medicine wheel is used for spiritual and healing purposes, and it is a powerful tool for self-discovery and personal growth.
At the center of the medicine wheel is the Great Mystery, the source of all life. The four quadrants are then filled with various elements, which are also associated with animals. These animals are the medicine wheel animals, each representing a different aspect of the human experience. Each animal teaches a specific lesson and provides guidance on how to live a balanced and fulfilling life.
This article will explore the four medicine wheel animals, their teachings, and their significance in Lakota spirituality.
East: The Eagle – Illumination and New Beginnings
The East is the direction of the rising sun, representing new beginnings, illumination, and enlightenment. The animal associated with the East is the eagle, a symbol of power, vision, and connection to the Great Spirit. The eagle soars high above the earth, able to see the bigger picture and connect with the divine.
Teachings of the Eagle:
- Vision: The eagle teaches us to see beyond the surface, to look at the bigger picture and to understand the interconnectedness of all things. The eagle reminds us to see the good in others and the positive aspects of any situation.
- Courage: The eagle is a fearless creature, and it teaches us to have the courage to face our fears and to pursue our dreams. It encourages us to step out of our comfort zones and to take risks.
- Freedom: The eagle represents freedom and the ability to soar above limitations. The eagle urges us to release any burdens or constraints that hold us back from reaching our full potential.
- Connection to the Divine: The eagle is believed to be a messenger from the Great Spirit. It helps us connect with the divine and to receive guidance from our ancestors.
What the Eagle teaches:
- Seek enlightenment: The eagle reminds us to be aware of our spiritual path.
- Embrace new beginnings: The eagle invites us to welcome new opportunities and adventures.
- Take risks: The eagle encourages us to get out of our comfort zones and be brave.
- Have faith: The eagle wants us to trust in the Great Spirit and the universe.
South: The Coyote – Trust and Innocence
The South is the direction of summer, representing growth, trust, and innocence. The animal associated with the South is the coyote, a trickster and a teacher of lessons. The coyote is a playful and mischievous creature, known for its intelligence and adaptability.
Teachings of the Coyote:
- Trust: The coyote teaches us to trust our intuition and to listen to our inner voice. The coyote reminds us to have faith in ourselves and in the journey of life.
- Innocence: The coyote encourages us to approach life with a sense of wonder and playfulness. It teaches us to not take ourselves too seriously and to find joy in the simple things.
- Adaptability: The coyote is a survivor, able to thrive in various environments. The coyote encourages us to be flexible and adaptable to change.
- Humor: The coyote teaches us the value of humor and laughter. It reminds us to not take life too seriously and to find the humor in every situation.
What the Coyote teaches:
- Listen to intuition: The coyote wants us to trust our inner voice.
- Be playful: The coyote reminds us to have fun and enjoy life.
- Embrace change: The coyote urges us to be flexible and adaptable.
- Be grateful: The coyote encourages us to appreciate the humor in every situation.
West: The Bear – Introspection and Power
The West is the direction of the setting sun, representing introspection, transformation, and power. The animal associated with the West is the bear, a symbol of strength, courage, and self-reflection. The bear spends the winter in hibernation, a time of deep introspection and renewal.
Teachings of the Bear:
- Introspection: The bear teaches us the importance of self-reflection and inner work. The bear reminds us to take time for ourselves, to listen to our hearts, and to understand our true selves.
- Strength: The bear is a symbol of strength and resilience. The bear encourages us to find our inner strength and to overcome challenges.
- Courage: The bear teaches us to be courageous and to face our fears. It encourages us to stand up for ourselves and to protect what we believe in.
- Healing: The bear is known for its healing abilities. The bear reminds us of our ability to heal ourselves and others.
What the Bear teaches:
- Self-Reflection: The bear reminds us to take time for ourselves.
- Embrace inner strength: The bear teaches us to find our power within.
- Face fears: The bear encourages us to be brave and overcome challenges.
- Seek Healing: The bear reminds us of our ability to heal.
North: The Buffalo – Gratitude and Wisdom
The North is the direction of winter, representing wisdom, gratitude, and the spirit world. The animal associated with the North is the buffalo, a symbol of abundance, gratitude, and connection to the earth. The buffalo provides for the people in every way, from its meat and hide to its bones and horns.
Teachings of the Buffalo:
- Gratitude: The buffalo teaches us the importance of gratitude and appreciation. The buffalo reminds us to be thankful for all the blessings in our lives and to give back to the community.
- Wisdom: The buffalo represents wisdom and knowledge. The buffalo encourages us to seek knowledge and to share our wisdom with others.
- Abundance: The buffalo is a symbol of abundance and prosperity. The buffalo reminds us that there is enough for everyone and to share our resources with others.
- Connection to the Earth: The buffalo is deeply connected to the earth. The buffalo reminds us to respect the earth and to live in harmony with nature.
What the Buffalo teaches:
- Be grateful: The buffalo reminds us to be thankful for the blessings in our lives.
- Seek wisdom: The buffalo wants us to learn and grow.
- Share with others: The buffalo encourages us to be generous.
- Respect the earth: The buffalo reminds us to live in harmony with nature.
Applying the Medicine Wheel Teachings
The medicine wheel animals are not just symbols; they are guides and teachers. By understanding the teachings of each animal, we can begin to live a more balanced and fulfilling life. Here are some ways to apply the medicine wheel teachings:
- Observe Nature: Spend time in nature and observe the animals around you.
- Meditate: Meditate on the qualities of each animal and how they relate to your life.
- Journal: Keep a journal and write about your experiences with each animal.
- Practice: Put the teachings into practice in your daily life.
Conclusion
The Lakota medicine wheel animals offer a profound and powerful system of guidance for personal growth and spiritual development. By studying the teachings of the eagle, coyote, bear, and buffalo, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. We can learn to live with more balance, courage, wisdom, and gratitude. Embrace these teachings and allow the medicine wheel animals to guide you on your journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.
