The medicine wheel is an ancient tool for helping one find and maintain balance in daily living. The medicine wheel is central to Native American tradition. It is central to their ceremony, healing, relationships, and their way of life. The wheel can be used to work out problems and attain deep healing from wounds caused by physical or mental trauma. One always enters the sacred wheel from the east, and moves in a clockwise direction, exiting through the east door.
Different tribes have different colors to represent the four directions.
For instance, the Apache tribe sees black in the east, red in the south, yellow in the west and white in the north. Different tribes also relate specific animals and properties to the directions, representing respect for the balance of all creation. Regardless of religion, race or creed, the medicine wheel can be a helpful tool. Throughout the day, think about where your activities belong on the wheel. You will immediately see where any imbalances are, and can begin bringing balance and harmony into your everyday living.