What’s in a name…or a Logo?

By Quinn Hand, ND

As our about us page indicates, Q Wellness is not just a play on the first initial of clinic founder and director, Quinn Hand.  It stems from much more.  “Q” actually stands for quintessential (minus all the extra letters that would make it hard to spell and type into your search engine).  “Quintessential” encompasses the meaning that good health is the underpinning of all things in life and that appropriate health care is quintessential to that foundation.  “Q” is also a play on the word “cue”….as in you are cuing wellness by working with our team.

Our logo is also descriptive of much more that what initially meets the eye.  Many people see the logo and think…that’s nice a hummingbird, that’s signifies nature.  But, the reality is the hummingbird is significant for its symbolism of the missions of both Q Wellness and natural health, particularly naturopathy.

Hummingbird Symbolism

It is not commonly known that the fluttering wings of the hummingbird move in the pattern of an infinity symbol signifying their symbolism of eternity, continuity, and infinity. Hummingbirds were revered by North, Central and South American Natives, as symbols of peace, love and happiness.  Moreover, ancient pagans held them sacred for their tireless energy.  They are always actively seeking the sweetest nectar and they remind us to forever seek out the good in life and the beauty in each day. In particular, hummingbirds are a symbol for accomplishing that which seems impossible and they teach us how to find the miracle of joyful living from your own life circumstances.

Amazing migrators, some hummingbirds are known to wing their way as far as 2000 miles to reach their destination. This quality reminds us to be persistent in the pursuit of our dreams, and adopt the tenacity of the Hummingbird in our lives.

The Animal Totem of Ancient Cultures

The Ojibway scholar Basil H. Johnston defines dodaem, or totem, as “that from which I draw my purpose, meaning, and being.” The Hummingbird animal totem is a messenger of hope and jubilation.

Hummingbird Animal Totems offer attributes like:

  • energy
  • vitality
  • joy
  • renewal
  • sincerity
  • healing
  • persistence
  • peace
  • infinity
  • agility
  • playfulness
  • loyalty
  • affection

The Hummingbird animal totem’s most important message is: “The sweetest nectar is within!”

The most profound questions the Hummingbird asks is:

  • “Where is your joy?”
  • “Is your happiness found within, or do you seek it externally?”
  • “What is the source of your joy?”
  • “What must you do to increase your joy?”

Some people believe that when they see a hummingbird, that it is a spiritual sign and can bring healing, luck, and good fortune.

This very message mirrors the mission of Q Wellness to help our clients find their joy and walk the path to wellbeing, no matter how arduous it may seem.  Health is not static and it takes work, like so many aspects of life. However, it can be challenging, and sometimes we need a guide on that path.  Thus, it is our goal to be that guide, helping you take this journey with the tenacity of the hummingbird, such that you find the sweetest nectar and ultimately take flight, just as this jubilant bird.