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A Grounded, Reflective Experience Rooted in Abenaki Teachings.

Bear Teachings Workshop

An adult-focused journey weaving storytelling, land-based learning, and hands-on art-making into a reflective and empowering experience.
I am Abenaki from Odanak, and Bear teachings are shared with care, respect, and cultural grounding
"Bear is not a symbol to be interpreted loosely, but a teacher that invites strength, courage, patience, and deep self-reflection."

Storytelling and Bear Teachings

The workshop begins in circle, creating a grounded and intentional space.

Bear is introduced as a teacher of:

Inner strength
Courage
Patience
Introspection
Grounding
Through storytelling, participants are invited to reflect on how Bear teaches us to slow down, listen inward, and trust our personal power.

Reflection prompts guide the conversation, including:
  • Where do I need courage in my life?
  • How can I connect more deeply to my inner strength and wisdom?
These reflections are held gently, allowing participants to engage at their own comfort level.

After this portion of the workshop, adults often feel centred, thoughtful, and more connected to their inner resilience.

Land-Based Learning (Optional Component)

When space and weather allow, an optional outdoor moment is included.

Participants are invited to:

  • Notice trees, footprints, and natural patterns
  • Reflect on Bear’s habits, such as hibernation, patience, and seasonal rhythm
  • Consider what humans can learn from Bear about self-care, timing, rest, and balance

This land-based component strengthens the connection between animal teachings, environment, and personal reflection. Afterward, participants often describe a deeper awareness of how land, animals, and personal wellness are interconnected.

Jessica Somers facilitating a land-based learning session outdoors, connecting traditional Indigenous teachings with environmental stewardship and art.
A professional curriculum guide showcasing Indigenous methodology, Wabanaki design, and art-based adult learning strategies.

Curriculum Focus for Adult Learning

This workshop is designed specifically for adult participants, including staff teams, frontline workers, leadership groups, and community members.

Bear teachings act as an anchor for:

  • Personal growth and self-awareness
  • Wellness and mindfulness
  • Leadership reflection
  • Resilience and strength-building practices

The experience supports meaningful reflection without pressure, performance, or expectation.

Art Methodology – Live Edge Wood Bear Painting

The art component of the workshop uses live edge wood as both canvas and teaching tool.

The Art Project

Participants create a Bear painting on live edge wood, with each piece uniquely shaped by natural texture and grain. The process includes:
  • Light sketching of the Bear, focusing on symbolism rather than realism
  • Painting with acrylics using earthy, grounding tones
  • Adding personal symbols representing strength, courage, resilience, or patience
  • Optional texture work to suggest fur or natural elements
Live edge wood mirrors the natural world and reinforces connection to land, grounding, and individuality.

A Mindful Creative Process

The art-making process is slow, reflective, and intentional. Participants are encouraged to work at their own pace, allowing the artwork to reflect personal learning and insight.

The finished piece becomes a lasting symbol of strength and reflection that participants can take with them beyond the workshop.

After this portion, participants often feel proud, grounded, and deeply connected to the experience.

A vibrant Woodland style bear painting on a live edge wood slab, featuring bold rainbow colors, thick black outlines, and Wabanaki design motifs.

Bear Workshop Flow

A typical workshop follows this rhythm:
  • Opening circle with grounding and Bear teachings
  • Storytelling focused on courage, strength, patience, and introspection
  • Optional outdoor land-based reflection
  • Live edge wood Bear painting session
  • Closing circle to share reflections or insights inspired by Bear
The flow supports both individual reflection and collective learning.
Through storytelling, participants are invited to reflect on how Bear teaches us to slow down, listen inward, and trust our personal power.

Reflection prompts guide the conversation, including:
  • Where do I need courage in my life?
  • How can I connect more deeply to my inner strength and wisdom?
These reflections are held gently, allowing participants to engage at their own comfort level.

After this portion of the workshop, adults often feel centred, thoughtful, and more connected to their inner resilience.

Bear Workshop Flow

A typical workshop follows this rhythm:
  • Opening circle with grounding and Bear teachings
  • Storytelling focused on courage, strength, patience, and introspection
  • Optional outdoor land-based reflection
  • Live edge wood Bear painting session
  • Closing circle to share reflections or insights inspired by Bear
The flow supports both individual reflection and collective learning.

Logistics and Booking Details

Length: 3.5 hours
Cost: $500 per workshop

Materials:
• Live edge wood
• Paints and brushes
• All art supplies included
Materials fee: $20 per participant

This is an adult-focused workshop combining story, land, art, and Bear teachings to support grounding, reflection, and personal strength.

Travel and accommodations are additional and discussed during booking.

Who This Workshop Is For

Organizations and staff teams
Frontline workers
Leadership and wellness groups
Community organizations seeking reflective, culturally grounded learning
No prior art experience is required.

Book the Bear Teachings Workshop

If your organization is seeking a meaningful, reflective experience grounded in Indigenous teachings, land-based learning, and creative practice, this workshop offers a powerful space for connection and growth.

To inquire about availability, travel, or customization for your group, please visit the Contact and Booking page.
Inquire About Availability