Understanding the Symbolism of the Bear

If you are heading to Finland or Sweden on any of the specialised bear tours, you may be interested to learn that this amazing animal is considered a very important in the 'spirit kingdom'. It has been worshipped by many different cultures for centuries as a pillar of strength and courage. Before you leave on your bear tours, take the time to learn a little more about this magnificent animal.

An Emblem of a Grounding Force

The Inuit culture believes the bear is in touch with the Earth and at one with the cyclical nature of our planet - inadvertently acting as a guide to support healing on both a physical and emotional level. Apart from being physically strong and powerful, it is invoked as an inspiration to those that need encouragement and inner strength to cope in times of adversity.

Those who choose the bear as their totem do so because the animal inspires them to face challenges and remain stable and strong when times are difficult. Those who follow these ideals believe it can help people stand up for what they believe and accept and stand by the truth, even when it is difficult to do so.As a symbolic totem of respect, the bear is also used to encourage people to act without fear and exude confidence and strength. It is also considered as a guide to encourage leadership, both personally and in the lives of others.

A Healer

For the Inuit people, this is a powerful totem animal. Some even believe that if an Inuit hunter is killed and eaten by a bear he could be reincarnated with the spirit of the animal firmly engrained in him, and live again as a shaman. It is interesting to note that women shaman in Siberia share the same designation as the bear. The association with the shaman is evidence that the animal is linked with healing, and if the animal appears in one's life, it is seen as a sign that person needs to deal with their own healing, whether it is physical, emotional or spiritual.

A Protector

Remains of bears have been uncovered in different archaeological sites throughout Europe alongside those of humans, which is evidence of the relationship between the two. We know that Vikings wore bearskins when they went in to battle as a way of scaring off their enemies, as a symbol of courage, and a means of protection. Also recognised in ancient Greece and Rome, the animal is even relevant in Celtic history, representing the sun.

On specialised bear tours, it doesn’t take long to realise there is more to these magnificent animals than first meets the eye. Doing some basic research before heading off on bear tours to Canada, Finland, Sweden or the Arctic will make your experience all the more rewarding.

Marissa Ellis-Snow is a freelance nature writer. If you’re looking for bear tours, Naturetrek specialises in expert-led natural history and wildlife tours worldwide. Naturetrek brings over 25 years of experience to polar expeditions and tours to other spectacular regions on Earth.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.