Guides come in all forms. Angels, psychics and our loved ones who’ve passed are just three examples. In Shamanism, spirit animals can also be guides. And they seem to appear to us just when we need them most.
As a matter of fact, a spirit animal can be a bear one moment and a wolf the next. The one who comes through is the one we need at that time.
Shamanism and the wisdom and guidance of spirit animals are among my passions. They continually weave themselves throughout my life. My journey includes the consistent exploration of these areas of study.
When learning about spirit animals, you’ll hear the terms “power animals” and “totem animals,” too. There are differences, as you’ll see below, but to make it simpler, I’ll use them interchangeably throughout this article. But if you’re curious, here’s what I’ve found to be true:
- Spirit Animals: Does one animal keep showing up in your dreams, on TV shows or in conversation? That animal is your Spirit Animal. It represents characteristics you already possess, as well as those you hope to develop. If you’re starting to see frogs in different aspects of your life, they might be there to wash away any feelings of hurt or disappointment, as well as feelings of resentment and regret. Perhaps it’s time to speak up and be heard!
- Power Animals: We are all connected—human to human, and human to animal—and as such, each of us embodies the knowledge and power of all living things in our DNA. A great way to step into your power is to embody your Power Animal. If you have an important matter that needs to be dealt with, “become” the wolf, and access your instincts, intuition and sharp intelligence.
- Totem Animals: Native American tradition indicates that your Totem Animal stays with you for life. The energy of this animal “speaks to your spirit.” And as you mature spiritually, the meaning of your totem will grow in your awareness. Is there an animal who’s pictured on pillows and paintings in your home? Do you have figurines and jewelry fashioned in the shape of the same animal? That’s most likely your Totem Animal. If you are a born leader, chances are your Totem Animal is an elephant.
You can find your spirit animal:
- In a dream
- During meditation
- While listening to music
- When out in nature
- In connection with your zodiac sign (Aries is the ram, Taurus is the bull, Leo is the lion, etc.)
- And even in the physical form, making multiple appearances in your life
According to Gaia.com, spirit animals carry meaningful messages for those willing to listen. I have paraphrased Gaia’s interpretation of the important contributions spirit animals make to our lives. They can help us:
- Identify aspects of ourselves that need to be developed
- Navigate parts of our everyday life that have a strong emotional impact
- Open us to the notion of transformation
- Discover possible life directions for reflection
- Create new perspectives on current relationships, especially our relationship with nature and instinct
- Feel inspired by its natural qualities and power
- Feel comforted through support and guidance
Curious as to the meaning of these beautiful creatures? Here’s a very brief list:
- Fox: Encourages action and quick, swift moves
- Butterfly: A symbol of powerful transformation
- Dolphin: Peace, harmony and inner strength
- Dog: Loyalty, trustworthiness and protection
- Cat: Patience, independence and healing from the inside out
- Dragonfly: Change, transformation, joy and lightness
- Wolf: Instinct, intelligence, appetite for freedom and a call to express yourself
- Horse: Drive, passion, sexual energy; secondarily: a balance between the instinctive and tamed part of your personality
- Frog: Cleansing, renewal, rebirth, fertility, abundance, transformation, ancient wisdom
- Flamingo: Honesty, balance, healing, community, love
- Hummingbird: Enjoyment of life, lifting-up from negativity, resilience, independence
- Hawk: Messenger of the spirit world, uses the power of focus, takes the lead when the time is right
- Eagle: Wisdom, freedom, strength, courage, creativity, sexual power, hope
If this is a brand new concept to you, do any of these animals resonate in your life? Do you know your spirit animal (or animals)? Have you had any encounters with animals that were trying to send you a message? Please comment in the section below or reach out to me personally to explore this more deeply. I’d love to hear from you.
xoxoxo
