Strength in Tradition: Youth in Wellbriety Create Medicine Wheel

At the heart of our work lies a deep commitment to healing—not just in mind, but in body, spirit, and community. This morning, youth in our Wellbriety program at the Ranch created a powerful symbol of their journey: a Medicine Wheel.

Wellbriety: A Culturally Rooted Path to Healing

Guided by Josie Brady, our Native American Services Coordinator and a White Bison-certified facilitator in Medicine Wheel + 12 Steps for Youth, the exercise mapped values across all four directions, tying them into the 12-step recovery process.

More than just a recovery program, Wellbriety integrates culture, spirituality, and personal growth. Each week, youth participate in smudging ceremonies, talking circles, and reflection—fostering balance, strength, and long-term sobriety.

These traditional practices reconnect them to their roots while providing a strong foundation for lasting wellness.

The Power of the Medicine Wheel in Recovery

The Medicine Wheel is a sacred symbol in many Native traditions, representing balance and the interconnectedness of life. The four directions (North, South, East, West), are often used as a guide for living a balanced life and achieving spiritual harmony.

In Wellbriety, it serves as a visual guide to healing, mapping emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual well-being across all four directions. By incorporating these teachings, youth gain a deeper understanding of their journey toward sobriety and personal growth.

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