what IS A moon bear?

The Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus) has a distinct white or cream colored V on its chest resembling a crescent moon and earning it the nickname “Moon Bear.”

Why the name Moon Bear Healing?

Moon Bear Healing was created as a way to honor the wisdom and guidance of my Korean ancestors. Some believe that all Korean people are descendants of the moon bear. According to one origin legend of Korea, the moon bear and tiger were given a test by the gods before their wish to become human would be granted. The tiger gave up after a few days, but the moon bear endured a 100 day trial and became Ungyo (bear woman). She married Hwangun, the Heavenly Prince, and subsequently gave birth to Tangun, who founded the kingdom of Chosen meaning "morning calm" and became the first king of what is now known as Korea.

The “bear’s path” or “walking the bear’s path” in some spiritual traditions is a reference to seeking inner wisdom. Hibernation can symbolize introspection and retreat into the subconscious or the cave of inner knowing. It is said that self reflection helps you gain knowledge of one’s self. When asked about the inspiration behind her painting Bears Path is Introspection, Patricia Wyatt stated that introspection is getting quiet so that you can hear the voice that’s really yours. She noted that the bears are walking and held together with the cloth. It really struck me that that is what therapists do, walk along with the client while they find their true self.

In contemplating names for my practice, I also was inspired by the Japanese tale (Tsukina Waguma) that Clarissa Pinkola Estés, Ph.D. writes about in Women Who Run with the Wolves. Dr. Estés uses the Crescent Moon Bear story to teach us about parts of ourselves - the caretaker, the seeker, the rage/the bear, the exiled and forgotten ones, the wise one, and “the great compassionate Self.” She talks about getting to know these parts, understanding the value and wisdom they hold, showing gratitude to them, and how compassionate forgiveness and acceptance of them can heal and transform them. The Crescent Moon Bear story aligns well with Internal Family Systems (IFS) and the healing journey toward self-compassion and integration.