Medicine Wheel Teaching- Autmn and the West
© Rev Dr Lora Coleman, MDiv, LCSW
Within each season of the Medicine Wheel, certain characteristics or descriptions are observed. They are energies and elements that are most prevalent on earth at that certain time of year. These characteristics and energies change with each season and they work in a cycle. Observing these changes can help humans vibrate in accordance with Earth energy and cycles, therefore flowing with nature, rather than against her. Going against the flow can cause a myriad of issues- physical, mental and spiritual.
The following are elements, or descriptors, of the Western quadrant of the Medicine Wheel:
· Color - black
· Element - mineral/Earth
· Season - Fall
· Kingdom – mineral/stones
· Time of day - dusk
· Time of life - middle age to senior Place - physical
Other things to know:
The West is a place of holding energy; feminine energy. Think of a vessel, a bowl or womb.
West is about the physical self and how we interact with the earth. Is the time to focus on relatives. It is the time in which our ancestors are closest to us and very willing to lend some guidance and support.
According to The Four Agreements, the West is the place where we “always try to do our best”. Here we understand that “all we truly need is WITHIN”.
West holds the Life Lessons of introspection, transmutation, hibernation, new awareness, new dreams, understanding the darkness and Shadow Self, taking responsibility, preparing for what is to come. These are the areas of your life to work on while in the West
It is time to focus on your physical self and your relationship with the Earth. It is a time to meditate; to be with family; to focus on your home and environment. It's time to think about new dreams and meditate upon them. Ask your ancestors for guidance. It is the time to reflect, be introspective and transmute our lives to the highest good through the lessons we've learned. It is time to harvest what you’ve worked so hard for, and plan for the season of winter that is ahead.
Animal totems celebrated in the west are typically black animals, symbolizing the color of the West. They are also animals that hibernate, dig into the ground and "go within". They reflect introspection. This might include bear, badger and other burrowers. Ravens, crows and bats are popular at this time too.
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