Spirit Bear Totem

Brown Bear Card by WhiteOaksPhotos

According to Ted Andrews Book "Animal Speak" The bear is a powerful symbol and image in both myth and lore. The bear has lunar symbology as well, giving it ties to the subconscious and even unconscious mind. It was an animal associated with the goddess Diana, a Goddess of the Moon.

Bear was very important to the Native American culture as they used the skins for protection from the cold. The bear has very strong medicine and magic and often are considered to be Shamans themselves. Bear resides on the west section of the medicine wheel which is also associated with water. Bears are known by Shamans as the "Keepers of Medicine" because they keep all of the ancient healing secrets from the Indians and spirits of Earth.

Bear teaches us to go deep within and awaken the true potential of who we are. It also teaches us to stay rooted in our faith and to enjoy the sweetness of life (because bears love honey). As you go within and awaken your true power and strength, you will find solutions to help you grow and nurture yourself from higher guidance.

As I mentioned earlier, Native Americans believe everything connects together, since bears love to climb trees they are often associated with trees. Trees are ancient powerful symbols just as the bear and both act as natural antennas that link Mother Earth to Heaven.