Classically the Bear is associated with Leadership, strength and healing. In much of Native American totems, the association of the bear is also one of of self sufficiency and stubbornness. Bears hibernate during winter, thus those associated with the Bear tend to be “slow” yet thoughtful during the winter. When the ice thaws in spring, the bear becomes very active, looking to the local environment to forage; so it is true with those who associate themselves with this totem: warm weather gets them up and moving: ponderously, yet ever moving forward.
Bear Medicine reminds us to follow our natural cycles. By going with the flow energies align more positively and successfully. Sometimes Bear Medicine appears in order to tell us to slow down for a season. A powerful symbol for the subconscious depths, the Bear sometimes suggests getting off the main path and seek your own in your own way and time.
In the Bear Amulet I have captured the image of a bear speaking, voicing his ideas and calling those around him to take notice of their situation. At times offering is a warning to those who wish to be aware of danger or of knowledge well earned through experience. Otherwise the bear is silent and ever careful: “when in doubt: don’t”.
The Bear Amulet is one and a quarter inch bas-relief sculpture: a shallow carving of the mouth giving the illusion of a deep carving, textured fur with a “hidden” back bail to hang on your chain or cord.
