Indigenous Medicine Wheel Offers Holistic Healing

Native American leader shares how the medicine wheel can support mental, physical and spiritual well-being

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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In this opinion piece, Skye Howell, an Indigenous woman from the Potawatomi and Ottawa tribes, discusses how the teachings of the medicine wheel can provide a spiritual practice for daily living that promotes balance and well-being. Howell explains that the interconnected elements of the medicine wheel guide self-reflection and growth, allowing people to examine their mind, body and spirit. She shares examples of "good medicine" activities that can help ground and center someone when they feel off-balance, and encourages readers to explore Indigenous cultural practices and traditions that can nourish their own spirits.

Why it matters

As many people struggle with the weight of grief, health concerns and uncertainty, Howell's perspective on the healing power of the medicine wheel offers a holistic approach to self-care and well-being rooted in Indigenous wisdom. Sharing these teachings can help promote greater understanding and appreciation of Native American culture.

The details

Howell integrates the teachings of the Potawatomi medicine wheel into her daily life, using it as a guide for self-reflection and growth. The medicine wheel represents the interconnectedness of the mind, body and spirit, and Howell pays attention to when she feels off-balance in any area, then seeks out "good medicine" activities to ground herself. This can include spending time with family, being in nature, creative pursuits, and spiritual practices like prayer and meditation. Howell encourages readers to explore their own cultural traditions and find the practices that nourish their well-being.

  • Howell wrote this opinion piece in February 2026.

The players

Skye Howell

An Indigenous woman from the Huron Band Potawatomi and Grand River Band Ottawa tribes, the executive director of the Native American Cultural Center, and a partner at Full Humanity Consulting.

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What they’re saying

“We need spiritual practices for daily living that bolster our strength, allow us to heal, and help us remember our roots. We need spiritual practices to share with our families and our communities.”

— Skye Howell (statesman.com)

“When you find yourself off balance, feeling drained, tired, or emotionally depleted — take time to consider the good medicine you need in your life to get centered. What cultural practices and traditions nourish your spirit?”

— Skye Howell (statesman.com)

What’s next

Readers are encouraged to connect with local Indigenous organizations like the Native American Cultural Center, the Puerto Rican Cultural Center, and the Indigenous Cultures Institute to learn more about Native American and Indigenous culture in Central Texas. The NAIYA powwow is also mentioned as an upcoming event on April 11 at Travis High School.

The takeaway

Howell's perspective on the healing power of the medicine wheel offers a holistic approach to self-care and well-being that is rooted in Indigenous wisdom. By integrating cultural practices and traditions that nourish the mind, body and spirit, individuals can find balance and cultivate a deeper sense of connection to their roots during challenging times.