Hands Back Hands Forward

Understanding Medicine Wheel teachings can help us to know the importance of balance, holism, connection and community; however, this is only the beginning of the meaning behind this powerful and oft-times simplified symbol of life and health.

Why is the Medicine Wheel often used to represent health and well-being for Aboriginal people? Is it simply because it offers an intuitive model of whole-person health? Or is there more to learn, reflect upon and understand about this symbol? Elder Mary Lee says “The old people will tell you it is life itself.” Thus, we have chosen the Medicine Wheel as a powerful tool and starting place for considering the health of our children and of our schools. Healthy schools address the needs of the whole person: spritual, emotional, physical and intellectual.

This video, which describes the experiences of participants in Vancouver’s Urban Aboriginal Community Garden Kitchen Project, illustrates the importance of nurturing the whole person. Although the video focuses on adults, the key take-away message – nurturing one’s spiritual, emotional, physical and intellectual needs through community and tradition – is an important concept to consider in the development of Vancouver’s Aboriginal Focus School:

Learn More: Resources

• Four Directions Teachings.com – A multi-media resource that explores “Indigenous knowledge and philosophy from five diverse First Nations in Canada”. Includes lesson plans for elementary and secondary teachers.
• The Sacred Tree – An illustrated book that explores Indigenous philosophy based on Canadian First Nations beliefs about The Sacred Tree and the Medicine Wheel.