The Medicine Wheel is a symbolic and spiritual tool used by various Indigenous cultures in North America. It represents the interconnectedness of all life and is often divided into four sections, each corresponding to different elements such as seasons, directions, stages of life, and aspects of health (physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual). 

The Medicine Wheel serves as a guide for understanding balance and harmony in life, emphasizing the importance of respect for nature, community, and personal growth. It’s used in healing practices, ceremonies, and teachings to promote holistic well-being. Each direction on the Medicine Wheel carries its own deep symbolism, and the teachings may vary depending on the tribe or specific cultural tradition.

Though the interpretation may vary slightly across different groups, here are some common associations for the North:

• Season: Winter
• Color: White
• Element: Air
• Animal: The buffalo or white buffalo is often associated with the North, symbolizing abundance and the sacred.
• Attributes: Wisdom, reflection, healing, and introspection. It is considered the direction of maturity and knowledge gained through life experience.
• Life Stage: Elderhood or the later stages of life, representing accumulated wisdom and understanding.

The North is viewed as a place of coldness and calm, where people look inward to find wisdom and clarity.

I recently learned a Hopi prayer that honors the North. Every morning, I light some sage and take time to honor the wisdom and beauty of this direction. Today was special as one line from the prayer stood out to me more than usual. I repeated it to myself over and over. I feel this applies so well to our journeys through menopause and so want to share it with you.

“Make us aware of the wisdom we have gathered in our time on Earth.”

I began to reflect on the wisdom all women accumulate throughout their lives. Menopause is the wisdom phase of life. Why then do we panic during perimenopause (and often menopause) and throw all this accumulated wisdom out the window? Now is the time to be calm and stand strongly in our power.

Try repeating this as an affirmation to yourself throughout the day. Let it sink into your entire being. When you feel panic, find that strong calm place and know you have earned the right to honor your wisdom. For the sake of making it more personal, I am changing the “we/us” to “I” etc.

 “Make me aware of the wisdom I have gathered in my time on Earth.”

Much love and peace on your journey,

Françoise