Episode 217: Chelsey Luger

On the ways in which we can respectfully learn from Indigenous cultures about creating instances of meaning, integrity, health and happiness. The Seven Circles encompass a series of interconnected, intersecting circles to help us all live well. 

• (0:00)- Introduction and Guest Introduction
• (2:54) - Overview of "The Seven Circles"
• (3:49) - Movement as an Antidote to Addiction
• (10:28) - Connection to Land and Environmentalism
• (16:46) - Spiritual Aspects of Land and Prayer
• (21:46) - Ceremony and Its Role in Wellness
• (38:11) - Resources for Allies and Cultural Revitalization
• (38:42) - Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Chelsey Luger is a writer, multimedia journalist and wellness advocate whose work focuses largely on reclaiming healthy lifestyles and positive narratives in Indigenous communities.

She is Anishinaabe, an enrolled member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa (maternal) and Lakota from Cheyenne River and Standing Rock (paternal). She holds a BA in history and Native American studies from Dartmouth College, and an MS in journalism from Columbia University.

Luger has written for the Atlantic, Self Magazine, the Huffington Post, Well + Good, Indian Country Today and more. She is a former VJ (on-air talent), script writer, and producer for NowThis News. She is a trainer/facilitator for the Native Wellness Institute and is the cofounder of Well For Culture, an Indigenous wellness initiative. Luger has worked as talent, cultural consultant, producer, content creator and copywriter for brands such as Nike, Athleta On Running and REI.

She is originally from North Dakota and now resides in O’odham Jeved (Arizona) with her husband, Thosh Collins, and their children. Chelsey and Thosh are the authors of The Seven Circles: Indigenous Teachings for Living Wellnow available everywhere books are sold.