Janja tets’

Janja tets’ means “medicine stick” in the Dena’ina Athabascan language.

Janja tets’ was made during a time this summer when I felt a deep sense of unease in the world and this dreamcatcher was an act of bringing forth healing. The colors represent the medicine wheel which is a sacred symbol in many Native American cultures. There are many interpretations of what the four quadrants mean; the four directions, seasons, elements, life stages, animals, and plants. From the four directions of North, West, South, East relating to the cycle of life and seasons to sacred animals and plants being associated to different colors and tribes; there are many sukdu (stories) of the medicine wheel. For me, it symbolizes our interconnections with all life and the importance of balance, intention, and taking time to listen to the teachings of nature. So, whatever sukdu resonates to you, may this janja tets’ bring reminders to practice intention in our daily life, ceremony in great transitions, and connections across community.