Discovering Your Spirit Animal: The Wisdom of the Shamans - Lucy Harmer 2009
Index of Spirit Animals
Ant
Ant is noted for its industry and strength, as it has the ability to carry things that are vastly heavier than its own body weight. Ant is a social insect, living in large communities, and it is this structure that ensures its survival. In the legends of the Hopi,1 Ant was the protector when one of their previous worlds was destroyed. Because the survivors had to spend a long period underground until it was safe to emerge, Ant shared its food with them, thus ensuring that they were able to stay alive. Ant communities are highly structured, and every Ant knows its place and task. Living spaces are superbly constructed and Ant teaches us how, with persistence, we are able to build our lives with a solid base if we have good materials. Ant’s message is success through patience and effort, and it teaches us the value of being part of a well-integrated group structure. Ant helps us to keep our feet on the ground and shows us how to attain material prosperity.
If you possess Ant medicine, you work hard, persevere, and always attain material prosperity. You have an important role to play in the community and teach respect to others.
Armadillo
The teaching of Armadillo is protection, for its back is covered in bony scales. Its vulnerability, however, lies in its undercarriage. Armadillo has strong boundaries; as it can roll itself up into a ball of armor, allowing no other animal to penetrate its space. Armadillo’s sense of smell is extremely keen and it can often tell when trouble is coming, deciding whether something “smells right” or not. With its sharp claws, Armadillo scratches below the surface and finds the underlying truth, showing us that we mustn’t rely on appearances. Armadillo often falls asleep in the warm sun, its soft underbelly exposed, reminding us to nurture and take care of ourselves. Armadillo people in particular need to be vigilant about being appropriately clad when the weather is cold. Armadillo also teaches trust; asleep, Armadillo is at its most vulnerable to predators, yet it knows that it is able to rely on its sense of smell to “sniff out” any danger as it approaches. Armadillo, who digs and excavates happily on land, can also live in water, holding its breath for long periods. In this way, Armadillo shows us how to move easily from one dimension to another.
If you possess Armadillo medicine, you have a strong “nose” for what is bad. You’re always seeking the truth and have well-defined boundaries. Don’t be too protective of others, but pay attention to your own needs.
Badger
Badger’s head, with its white stripe between two black ones, tells us that it is a creature of both the day and the night. Badger has a reputation as the guardian of fairy tales and the keeper of stories. It can dig deeply and rapidly and has a strong connection to the earth elementals.2 In this way, Badger people often have a deep knowledge of healing with roots and medicinal plants; many powerful medicine women in the Native American tradition use Badger’s medicine. Sometimes we refer to “badgering” people when we are being aggressive; transformed, this becomes the quality of perseverance, an aspect of Badger’s personality. Badger people’s healing abilities are often outstanding because they are prepared to persevere, with unusual methods if necessary. They never give up. Badger encourages us to dig more deeply to find the truths that may be hidden from us; if we have let things slide, we can often evolve more rapidly with a dose of Badger’s blunt truth!
If you possess Badger medicine, whether you know it or not, you are a born healer. You are able to persevere whenever necessary, and you never abandon a project once you’ve started. Your words can be cutting, but they do help to move others on.
Bat
Bat flies at night and is able to navigate in complete darkness, teaching us to use our intuition to find our path. For Native Americans, Bat symbolizes rebirth because it goes into its habitat in the cave (the womb), to reappear again into the light. Bat helps us face one of our greatest fears—our fear of death—by teaching us that every “death” brings forth a new birth—the law of the Great Spirit. We often hold on to something that no longer fulfills us because we are scared to let it go; Bat’s powerful message is that we must be in a continual state of transformation, that change need not be feared. When we listen to our inner messages and follow what they tell us, Bat teaches us that we need fear nothing. We create our own reality and, when we start to stretch our imagination, more things become possible than we ever imagined. If we learn to fly like Bat, we can rise above our fears. Hanging upside down, Bat reminds us to see things from a different perspective.
If you possess Bat medicine, you are easily able to make your dreams come true. Your intuition is powerful and you’re always in the process of reinventing the world.
Bear
Bear represents maternal energy at its most protective, and the power of Mother Earth. Bear is a major symbol of healing; it knows that the answers lie within, and it symbolizes introspection. Hibernating in the winter, Bear reminds us to reflect on the experiences we have had during the past year. Bear is “reborn” when spring comes around again. Bear is considered to be the guardian of the heart chakra of Mother Earth, helping us to establish a deep connection with earth energies. It is a rapid and nimble climber of trees. The tree symbolizes the link between heaven and earth, and Bear travels easily from one reality to another; it knows what is happening in the conscious mind as well as in the subconscious. Bear’s healing powers are demonstrated by the herbs and crystals often found in bear caves. It has a playful nature and is loved by children, who often take a bear to bed to hug, to drown out their fears of the night.
If you possess Bear medicine, you are deeply connected to earth energies and, whether you know it or not, have great healing powers. Such powers are often allied to crystal healing or medicinal plants. Your greatest strength is your power of introspection and your capacity for finding all the answers within. You are able to overcome your own fears and also enable others to overcome theirs.
Beaver
Beaver is noted for being industrious and it builds its home carefully, leaving itself several escape routes. Beaver is much prized by the Native Americans for its management of the forests; with its sharp teeth, it is able to take out whole trees to use for the building of its dams in rivers and streams. Beaver loves to work and keeps its dams in good repair. It doesn’t waste time or energy but, finding what needs to be done, gets on with doing it as efficiently as possible. Beaver teaches teamwork; it believes in family, mating for life, and taking great care of the little ones. It has a great aptitude for living in water—indeed its body is designed for it—and water symbolizes the dreamworld. Beaver shows us how to build on our dreams. Working with Beaver can teach us much about stability, hard work, and protecting our environment.
If you possess Beaver medicine, you work hard. You are an excellent psychologist and a good group facilitator and leader. Any ecological project will take on major importance for you.
Bee
The Honeybee collects sweet nectar from the flowers, which it transforms into honey. It teaches us how to appreciate the intoxicating sweetness and sacredness of all life. Without the Honeybee pollinating the overwhelming majority of flowers and plants, the whole world’s ecosystem would collapse. Bee works tirelessly and reminds us that we are all connected and need to work together as a community. Honeybees have remarkable healing attributes. Their sting is used as a remedy for arthritis; the pollen they collect can give long life; and propolis, which they smear on their hives to prevent infection, also has remarkable healing properties. The honey they make is considered in numerous traditions to be the nectar of love. To the ancient Greeks, the bee symbolized prosperity, purity, industry, abundance, sexual ecstasy, and immortality. They believed that bees were the embodiments of the souls of the priestesses of Aphrodite (goddess of love). The priestesses were called “melissae” (literally meaning “bees”). Interestingly, some priestesses in the Amazon are also referred to as bees. The gentle humming of the bees can lull a person into a dreamlike state. The figure 8 dance they perform (which is also a symbol of infinity), tells other bees where to find an abundance of flowers. In Druidic tradition, this dance is a sacred homage to the sun and solar deity, giving long life and prosperity. In Egypt, bees were also related to the sun and considered to be the tears of the sun god Ra, representing birth, death, and immortality.
If you possess Honeybee medicine, you are highly productive and will see the value in dedicated teamwork and group vision. You remind others that we can all live together harmoniously and show others how to celebrate the magic and sacredness in all life.
Blackbird
Not all blackbirds are black. In olden times, the name “blackbird” was associated with a number of different species of small birds. The male is generally black with a gold beak, and the female is dark brown. The American blackbird is closely related to the robin because of its bright red patch on the shoulder, sometimes edged white. Another variety has a yellow head and throat. Like the robin, the Blackbird was considered by many cultures as sacred to the gods because of its sweet song. For the Greeks, as well as the Welsh, the Irish, and Druid traditions, the song of the Blackbird can expand our consciousness, heal on a very deep level, and take us on an enchanted journey through the dreamtime to uncover hidden secrets about ourselves and the universe. The Blackbird’s song encourages us to seek out and live our spiritual purpose in a meaningful and productive life. The Blackbird is revered in the Celtic tradition as the gatekeeper to the Other Worlds, including the faerie realm. The Gaelic name for the Blackbird, Druid Dhubh, means the black druid. In Irish and Welsh traditions, the Blackbird is closely related to the blacksmith’s god (Goibhniu and Gofannon), mainly because of its coloring being as black as a forge. The blacksmith was considered to be the master of the elements, harnessing the power of fire, air, and water, as he transforms ore from the earth. As such, the Blackbird is considered to be the otherworldly smith, the master of the elements who calls to earth with its healing song. It cracks open snails’ shells and invites us to work in the forge of our own heart and rekindle passion and purpose in our lives. Blackbird speaks the language of the heart and brings with it its song of poetry, music, and inspiration.
If you possess Blackbird medicine, you sing a song that awakens people to their hidden potential and helps them to find their true purpose in life. You bring the touch of poetry, music, and inspiration to all that you do.
Buffalo
Buffalo is sacred to the Native Americans because it provided food and its skin was used for clothing; it represents abundance and power, as well as the sacred aspects of life. Buffalo teaches us that we do not need to struggle if our intentions and actions are ethical. Buffalo is so strong that it does not need to push or force; it only needs to move forward at its own pace. The most sacred of buffalo is White Buffalo, for in Native American Indian tradition, it was White Buffalo Woman who brought the sacred pipe of peace and showed the people how all things are connected. Buffalo exudes calm because it knows that all its needs will be met at the right time and in the right way. Buffalo gives praise for the richness of its life, knowing that if it has taken all the right steps, nothing will be withheld from it.
If you possess Buffalo medicine, you have great inner strength. You honor and instinctively trust in life. You don’t try to hurry because you know that everything arrives with perfect timing.
Butterfly
Butterfly medicine consists of the power of transformation and the dance of joy. As Butterfly emerges from its cocoon, it symbolizes rebirth. Its beautiful colors celebrate life and all of creation. Because its cycle of life consists of egg, larva, caterpillar, and cocoon before becoming a butterfly, it teaches us about transformation and all the stages of spiritual growth. As it lives mostly in the air, it represents freedom. Its metamorphosis symbolizes our emergence from the darkness into the light and the beauty we were always meant to create. The colors of Butterfly should be noted carefully. What do they mean to us? Butterfly dances for joy and reminds us not to take life too seriously. It brings healing to all those who ask for it. It teaches us that although we are happy being a fuzzy, warm caterpillar, if we dare to move on we will emerge in all our splendor, having turned into what we were born to be.
If you possess Butterfly medicine, you have a great ability to let go and to reinvent yourself throughout your life. You also encourage others to achieve their full potential and to get the best out of life. Life for you is a dance, but you never forget that sometimes you have to go through trials and tests to become a truly spiritual being; you are able to draw on the lessons you learn along the way.
Camel
Camel is an excellent example of perseverance, inner strength, and endurance, as it can travel for long periods bearing very heavy loads, relying solely on its inner reserves. Camel has been called “the ship of the desert,” which refers not only to its great capacity for storing water, but also to its plodding strength in an inhospitable terrain. Camel stores its energy in its hump in the form of fat and can be called upon at any time to take off on a long journey without making any extra preparations. It is noted for its intelligence and its ability to plot its course. Camel people trust their intuition to lead them, and this gives others a sense of security. Camel stands high and sees far and, by crisscrossing huge expanses of land, manages to obtain a complete overview. It is intimately acquainted with the land, and you can rely on Camel’s intuition and guidance to find the best way through obstacles.
If you possess Camel medicine, you are blessed with great strength and determination and a capacity for seeing around the obstacles in life.
Cat
Cat has many qualities; it keeps us in touch with our feminine side and with our sense of elegance, independence, and intuition. Cat is mysterious; it intrigues us and can be said to keep us in its thrall. Its ability to communicate using telepathy gives Cat a powerful understanding of and connection with humans, and it is unafraid of spirits that only it can see. Stroking Cat and listening to it purr is very healing and it loves to be around places where healing occurs. Cat teaches us that self-acceptance is the first step in forming balanced relationships with another, to building partnerships of mutual respect. Since time immemorial Cat has been associated with fertility in many different cultures. In the Hindu tradition, the goddess Shasti rides a Cat, symbolizing fertility and birth. With Cat’s special powers of night vision, it is also a creature of the darkness, a realm that can scare humans because of the many myths connected with it. In ancient Egypt, Cats were revered and in Celtic lore a cat could travel the underworld and held prophetic powers. Cat always knows about events and situations before they arise.
If you possess Cat medicine, you are independent and flexible, and your moods can be changeable. You are agile and telepathic, a born healer who is capable of getting out of tight corners.
Coyote
Coyote is intelligent and ingenious. It is noted for its jokes and tricky nature. Its medicine is powerful, and its humor can sometimes provoke violent reactions from sensitive people. Coyote is extremely sly and even if its jokes are not always suitable, it couldn’t care less; sometimes it forgets to learn from past mistakes. Coyote represents all the funny and enjoyable things that happen to us, either when we’re amusing ourselves or when we’re preparing a surprise or a joke to play on someone else. Coyote teaches us to lighten up, drop our burdens, and create a happy atmosphere in meetings or groups of which we are part. Coyote can, however, also make complicated matters even more complicated. It symbolizes the wise and the foolish, and this mixture of wisdom and buffoonery can be found in mythologies all over the world. Coyote can bring light into places where we can’t see the end of the tunnel, thus inspiring us to look at life in a new way and develop a deeper understanding of ourselves. It demonstrates the ability to grow and, to those who love life, Coyote gives the gift of confidence.
If you possess Coyote medicine, you’re a born joker and your sense of humor brings a lot of joy, although it also usually contains a modicum of truth. You help people around you “let go” and enjoy life.
Crocodile
Crocodile spends most of its time beneath the surface of the water and can symbolize danger or trouble. The Egyptians revered Sobek the crocodile god, whose seat of power was said to be in our reptilian brain. Crocodile controls our autonomic nervous system and this makes it a powerful healer, able to communicate well with the body. It feeds our intuition and represents our primitive emotions, as well as regulates our bodily rhythms. Crocodile is noted for getting what it wants; it symbolizes the creative and destructive power of water. Its habitat is the shallows between the earth and the water, symbolizing its having a foot in the two worlds of birth and death. Crocodile is a powerful symbol of fertility, and the female is an excellent mother, helping its babies to hatch and then carrying them down to the water. The position of Crocodile’s eyes high on its head are linked to clairvoyance; they enable it to stay invisible under the water, so it can see what’s going on without revealing itself.
Crocodile is a powerful spirit animal, and if you possess its medicine you have a great inner creative force and a powerful intuition. You are able to keep out of sight, while seeing exactly what is going on around you.
Crow
Crow is a very powerful spirit animal. It is considered by many people to be able to be in several places at once. Its eye is similar to that of the Raven and is considered to be the door to the inner realms. This makes Crow the messenger between the worlds of the visible and the invisible. It knows the mysteries of creation and is the guardian of its laws. Native Americans consider that Crow protects and keeps account of the sacred laws of the Great Spirit. Crow can see the past, present, and future simultaneously and is responsible for merging the world of the spirits and that of the earth. Crow demands total integrity in everything we do. Crow has great intelligence and watchfulness and warns other crows and animals of threats and intruders. Crows always post a sentinel while feeding, and their piercing voice keeps order and carries messages. It is the messenger of changing times and can help us to see from which direction the winds of change in our lives are blowing. It shows us how to look at the magic in our lives and to learn to see events in a different way.
If you possess Crow medicine, you are drawn to the sacred laws and have a strong sense of justice; you could be a highly successful lawyer. You also have the gift of being able to communicate with the spirit world. You are able to encourage others to live every second of their lives with intensity.
Deer
The female Deer represents compassion and sensitivity—qualities that can bring great inner strength. The male’s physical power is awesome. Deer’s other qualities include watchfulness and speed, as well as the ability to listen closely and to make quick decisions. The horns of the stag act as a form of antennae, helping it to tune in accurately to any messages it needs to capture. There are many types of deer, and Deer people may experience different aspects of their spirit animal during the different seasons: The fawn is small and vulnerable, the pregnant doe soft and watchful, and the rutting stag strong and powerful. Deer is very important in the Native American tradition; its meat provides food, and its skin can be made into clothing and the drums and rattles used by the shamans. The skin of the fawn is dappled with dark and light patches; it helps us to accept the different facets of our nature.
If you possess Deer medicine, you have the capacity to integrate into any situation. At certain times you may be gentle and filled with compassion; at other times you will show your strength and power. You are a good observer and are able to make important decisions fast. You have the ability to understand the whole range of human emotions.
Dog
Dogs are famous for their loyalty, and that is the main aspect of their medicine. Dog people are noted for their devotion to serving others and will be found in all the caring professions. Dog has a dual personality, being the best friend of man and also playing the role of his protector. Dog’s loyalty, even to those who would ill-treat it, says much about its understanding of human frailties. Native Americans greatly appreciate their dogs; they are able to warn of danger and provide bodily warmth in the cold desert nights. Dog is also a worker. It can be an able hunter of food or an efficient herder of other animals. Dog is a powerful spirit animal representing companionship, team spirit, and faithfulness.
If you possess Dog medicine, you are extremely loyal and able to continue to love even if you have been betrayed. You have a great team spirit, enjoy work, and are entirely dedicated to your cause.
Dolphin
Dolphin is a superintelligent creature with a huge brain and an amazing sense of playfulness. It is full of the innocent joy of childhood, and people who have been in contact with Dolphin say that by looking it in the eye it is possible to understand the meaning of unconditional love. This is one of its most powerful lessons. Its sense of telepathy is highly developed, and many tales recount how it has protected people from drowning, guiding boats safely home. Dolphin is a great communicator and its sonar can be heard many miles away. It uses a series of clicks and responds to the reverberation of their sound. Sound came forth out of womb (the ocean) and creates all life. Dolphin teaches us to create outer manifestations of our inner voices. It is also a healer; many people troubled by depression and other conditions have been cured by swimming with dolphins, experiencing their love and acceptance. Dolphin has perfected the art of breathing and when we learn this technique from it, we can relieve stress and tension, coming into the present moment as we release trapped emotions. Despite all the damage done to it and its environment, Dolphin demonstrates forgiveness and understanding.
If you possess Dolphin medicine, you are an excellent communicator. Your specialty is healing others with your unconditional love.
Dragonfly
Dragonfly is light, and its magical colors become brighter as it matures. It can perform incredible acrobatics and, with its speed and agility, it is an excellent hunter. Dragonfly people can be quite airy when they are young, but they develop a stronger sense of balance in all things as they mature. Because water is dragonfly’s habitat, Dragonfly people can be emotional. Dragonfly teaches us that we need to take stock of our lives on a regular basis and change what no longer serves; Dragonfly is the essence of change. It is a creature of the day and seeks the warmth of the sun. It is the guardian of the doorways into the dreamtime, and its shifting, shimmering, and iridescent colors bring back memories of ancient magic. In some tales, Dragonfly was once Dragon and the master of illusion, being able to change shape at will. It got caught up in its own mind and lost its outer ability to transform. However, Dragonfly still has the power to enchant the mind and weave the magic gossamer of dreams into existence. The great illusionist, it also shows us that things are not always as they appear.
If you possess Dragonfly medicine, you are a master of illusion. You can create wonderful dreams and enchant any audience.
Eagle
Eagle flies high and sees far. It represents the power of the Great Spirit in Native American lore, of all that connects us to the divine. Its feathers are sacred and are the most highly prized among the shamans and medicine men and women. It is a link between the earth and the upper realms because although it easily finds its food on the ground, it spends most of its time in the air. Eagle teaches us to be courageous and to soar above the limitations of the mundane. Its message is to look up, to follow our inner joy.
Because it lives in the air, Eagle calls on us to connect with our highest path; in rising higher we can obtain a clearer view of the choices we have to make. The Eagle’s eye is a metaphor for the Third Eye, enabling us to see every detail of our life’s challenges. It enables us to choose our goals and helps us to achieve them and is a powerful symbol for healing. Eagle only attacks animals that are hurt or feeble. It is able to close in on its prey silently due to the control it has over its powerful wings, swooping and rising on the winds at will. It teaches us to let go and soar with our visions of a positive future.
If you possess Eagle medicine, you are able to connect easily with the Great Spirit and understand how to solve problems. You are capable of making wise decisions and advising other people, and you have many healing talents.
Elephant
Elephant signifies power allied with extreme gentleness. It can also show aggression, however, when it moves obstacles from its path, reminding us that sometimes we need to imbibe its strength to deal with our own life situations. Elephant’s shoulders are broad and it can help us with seemingly intractable problems. It stands with four feet on the earth; it plods and moves slowly. It demonstrates that speed is not necessarily the best means for achieving our goals, that being grounded and persevering are more likely to lead to success in the long term. Elephant is revered throughout Asia, and especially in India, where it is a symbol of royalty, fertility, and wisdom. Associated with the god Ganesha, it is considered to be the “remover of obstacles.” Elephant also represents immense strength and sexual power. Male elephants can often be seen out of control when in rut! Elephant is extremely loyal and shows great affection within its family. Although noted for its amazing memory, Elephant particularly remembers those who have hurt it. Its olfactory sense is exceptionally keen, and Elephant people need to avoid situations that don’t ’smell right,’ making sure always to follow their instincts.
If you possess Elephant medicine, you have a royal air, immense inner strength, and wisdom, and watch over your family. You are capable of overcoming any obstacles to reach your goal.
Fox
Fox is known for its cunning and its ability to travel unseen. It has many allies in nature and can “outfox” its pursuers. There are twenty-one different types of fox; in the tarot this number symbolizes the whole world, a reflection of Fox constantly shifting its shape into new creations. Fox is most often seen at twilight or dawn and these are the times when the magical worlds interact with our own. Fox is an expert at camouflaging itself. It can change its color to blend in with the scenery and this, coupled with its agility, means Fox is able to make a fast getaway whenever it needs to. It observes and is often able to guess what will happen next. Fox people work unobtrusively; they are able to successfully put up a front, outwitting other people, with nobody able to guess exactly what lies behind the facade.
If you possess Fox medicine, you are clever and artful and no matter what situation you find yourself in, you are always able to turn it to your advantage. You also have the ability to find solutions, even for causes that seem to be lost.
Frog
Frog symbolizes patience as it can sit completely still and wait for its prey to appear. As we watch tadpoles rapidly turn into frogs, so Frog represents transformation. Indeed, many folktales speak of a beautiful girl kissing an ugly frog, who immediately turns into Prince Charming. This is one of the qualities of Frog medicine: the ability to see higher things beneath an unpromising exterior. Frog means many different things to many cultures; it has been associated with reincarnation, fertility, and watering the earth. As water is linked to the emotions, Frog people often have a deep sense of intuition and the ability to detect other people’s hidden feelings. Those working with Frog medicine often use water to cleanse negativity. Frog is said to control the great cleansing and nourishing energy of the rain; rain washes away the dust and, as the morning after a day of heavy rain shows, it polishes the world into brightness. Water is one of the most powerful conductors of energy, and space clearers often use Frog medicine in their work. Frog has an enormous voice for such a small creature, fulfilling many purposes; it uses its voice to define its boundaries and scare predators, as well as to call out for a mate.
If you possess Frog medicine, you are an alchemist and you bring about transformation wherever you go. You don’t hesitate to speak up for new principles.
Giraffe
With its long neck, Giraffe can observe what goes on around it near or far; it represents near- and far-sightedness, both literally and physically. It can see how things in the present and the future will affect it and those around it; it inhabits both worlds, its long legs keeping it firmly grounded. Giraffe is a powerful runner and can teach us to move easily toward new things. Its huge heart enables it to communicate from a center of love, and it teaches us that in ordinary interaction with each other, there is often a silent dialogue going on from heart to heart, at the same time as we are communicating verbally. Its long neck represents communication, although it makes very little noise, preferring to use body language. Giraffe people must ensure that they are always speaking diplomatically as well as saying what needs to be said. Undeveloped horns on Giraffe’s head symbolize antennae for picking up messages; the one between its eyes, especially, represents its highly developed intuition.
If you possess Giraffe medicine, you are excellent at communicating with those from all walks of life. You put your huge heart into everything you do.
Hawk
Hawk encourages us to be aware and quietly observe what is going on around us. The cry of the hawk has always been considered a signal that something is about to happen; we must be vigilant to its message, sometimes using our intuition to discover what it means. Hawk sees everything that happens (“eyes like a hawk”) and calls on us to use our intuition to interpret the signs that appear. It encourages us to rise higher, to view the world from a more complete perspective. Hawk people tend to have a good overall view of what is happening. In many traditions, such as in the Ojibwa tribe, Hawk is considered a powerful messenger and its eye is said to be the eye of the sun. In ancient Egypt, Hawk was considered a solar bird, and in the Rig Veda (Hindu scriptures) the sun is often compared to a Hawk. Hawk’s feathers are highly prized and are used in healing ceremonies for their magical properties. The feathers of the red-tailed hawk are used by the Pueblo tribe in healing ceremonies to bring about rain.
If you possess Hawk medicine, you are able to decipher the signs that appear in life. You always see things clearly and, like the sun, you can become a guide for others. Life holds no secrets for those who possess Hawk medicine; no one can hide anything from your keen insight.
Hippopotamus
Hippopotamus represented the mother principle in ancient Egypt, where, in the form of the goddess Taweret, she attended every birth, including the birth of the sun each morning as it returned from its journey to the underworld of the night. Hippopotamus is depicted in this role on the walls of many ancient Egyptian temples. Although Hippopotamus is a poor swimmer, it gives birth to its young in water, finding a quiet, shallow place where the baby won’t be swept away by the currents. Hippopotamus shows us how to rebirth into ecstasy and joy, without the pain associated with physical birth. It is the midwife, filled with the milk of human kindness. Hippopotamus people tend to be maternal and, like many mothers, full of compassion and wisdom. They are full of love for other people and able to bring something new to any situation; Hippopotamus will help you to achieve your cherished projects with ease.
If you possess Hippopotamus medicine, you are warm and generous and your maternal side is well developed. Your big heart is full of compassion and you bring joy and support to everyone you meet.
Horse
Horse stands for many things: male sexuality, pride, power, nobility, freedom, and travel. Native American shamans teach that the arrival of the horse in their homeland enabled them to travel to the inner realms, and Horse is associated with riding toward death and rebirth. As one of the first forms of mass transportation, Horse has brought the peoples of the world closer together. Even when we speak of cars, we still refer to “horsepower” to denote their acceleration and speed. Sitting upon Horse’s back symbolizes the ability to see above the mundane and look out at wider horizons. Horse reminds us that true power comes from our own wisdom and common sense. Horse helps us understand what we have achieved so far on our life journey and reveals to us how much further we still need to go. Horse’s message is that profound teaching goes hand in hand with compassion.
If you possess Horse medicine, you have great inner strength and a desire to be free. Don’t let yourself be carried away by your emotions and your pride; develop your innate wisdom and your ability to be a compassionate teacher to others.
Jaguar/Panther
Although the Jaguar looks like a leopard, it has a broader body and a larger head and is much heavier. Jaguars are usually a deep yellow, although black jaguars are becoming increasingly more common. The black panther is the common name for a black jaguar. Jaguars are extremely ferocious, fierce, and very independent. They are intelligent and have great strength and agility. They can climb, swim, run, and excel in almost every task. The Native Americans and Toltecs consider them to have immense inner strength. Black Panthers are considered in many cultures to be magical and mystical creatures of the night and the underworld. Mayan priests wore jaguar skin tunics and headdresses, as did Osiris priests in ancient Egypt, during certain rites where the Jaguar was invoked. The Toltecs associated the Jaguar with the elements; the rain and thunder were its voice and its yellow skin represented the sun god, which became the Jaguar when it went into the underworld at night. Jaguar is thus endowed with great magic and immeasurable power. As such, it becomes an icon for reclaiming one’s own power. Jaguars move softly, silently, and silkily. They have extremely sensitive hairs on their body, especially on their face. Their coat is smooth and luscious and they have magnetic eyes. Panther also teaches about touch and sensuality, and can awaken passion in your life, helping you to embrace your powerful sexual energies. Jaguars are excellent sprinters, but can’t keep their speed up over long distances. For those people who share in Jaguar medicine, it is important to learn to pace yourself, getting the right balance between work and play.
If you possess Jaguar or Black Panther medicine, you are powerful, fierce, cunning, persevering, and able to travel to the underworld. You embrace life with passion and sensuality.
Leopard
Leopard teaches us to stop running from our fears, but instead to stand and face them so as to overcome them. Leopard disembowels its prey; the intestines symbolize the place where our emotions of fear, and “fight or flight” mechanisms, are stored. Leopard teaches us that we must not be afraid to “dive in” and get in touch with these emotions, to face our fears head-on. Once these emotions are understood (and even overcome) we are able to have a better approach to life; we can stop trying to run from our fears, transforming them instead into something that is totally harmless.
Because Leopard has to stalk its prey, it learns to develop its intuition while very young, and Leopard people often have heightened sensibilities. They display great agility and demonstrate how to leap over obstacles in life. Leopard has the reputation of sucking the blood of an animal rather than eating it; blood is the life force and Leopard shows us that we can take what is necessary from something without accepting any old programming that may accompany it. Leopard gives us the tools necessary to overcome our fears and the agility to sidestep them.
If you possess Leopard medicine, you will be able to avoid obstacles in life with ease, always going to the heart of the matter. You give strength and courage to the people around you and help them overcome their fears.
Lion
This is a sign of leadership, which can be a challenging concept, because others are not always happy to follow Lion’s lead. When we take the lead we are not always praised, and Lion sometimes has to live with a feeling of unpopularity. Lion people are drawn to learn about balancing power, strength, courage, and intuition. In ancient Egypt, the female lion was considered to be a goddess of truth and justice. It is a protector of its young, killing only what it needs for food. Lion will not attack unless attacked. In fact, Lion hunts primarily by stealth and avoids confrontations whenever possible. Lion people should apply this medicine to their projects in life in order to achieve success. Lion lives within a pride and teaches us about how best to deal with groups and communities. Lion represents great responsibility and will know when to push the cubs (its followers) out for their own good rather than insist that they stay to follow its lead.
If you possess Lion medicine, you are a born leader and you also have a strong sense of truth and justice.
Lizard
Lizard likes to bask on warm stones, absorbing the energy of the sun, dreaming of the realm of the shadows. It is the guardian of dreams and calls upon us to take note and act upon what we may learn from our dreaming. Associated with the sun, Lizard appears and disappears at will. Gravity holds no secrets for Lizard as it can climb up and down almost anything, even walking upside down. Its long tail helps keep its balance and, combined with its ability to detect vibrations in the ground and a keen sense of hearing, Lizard excels in clairvoyance. It helps us to bring out our shadow sides and heal them. Should its tail be trapped by a predator, the tail will break off, and Lizard darts off to live another day and grow another tail. This is very symbolic; Lizard teaches us that we too can break with the past, and detach ourselves from negative issues. Because of its connection with the sun, Lizard often appears to show that the fates are smiling on us. Lizard people are often warm and optimistic.
If you possess Lizard medicine, you are highly intuitive and lucky. Remember that it is important to listen to the messages that surface from the depths of your consciousness and to always follow your dreams.
Lynx
Lynx has a certain aristocratic air. It survives well in northern climates. Lynx kittens are usually born with blue eyes, which turn gold after about two months. This reminds us of Lynx’s capacity to draw knowledge from the heavens. Lynx is the repository of secrets. It is able to divine the deepest thoughts of those around it, although like all good extractors of secrets, it keeps its counsel and does not impart secrets to others. Lynx is associated with inspiration and mysticism, and its name comes from the Greek Lynceus, which means being able to see through solid objects. Lynx people must trust their intuition; if an idea or an insight has come to them they must not just put it aside as it has arrived for a reason. Lynx people are often entrusted with the secrets of others, but need to have complete confidence in someone before sharing their own. Lynx sits and watches and thereby discovers many things that escape other people’s notice. When others sense this quality of clairsentience, they may feel uncomfortable, especially if they have something to hide.
If you possess Lynx medicine, you are a keen observer and capable of rooting out anyone’s secret.
Monkey
Monkey is a busy, chattering, intelligent, happy individual. It loves to play and doesn’t like to take life too seriously. It is common to call someone a “cheeky monkey,” which usually refers to their trying to get away with something outrageous! Monkey’s superior intelligence is illustrated by the famous “hundredth monkey effect”: A monkey on an island started to wash the sand off its sweet potatoes before eating them; this habit spread, not only to its immediate family, but to other tribes—in other parts of the island—that had had no contact with the first monkey. When the “hundredth monkey” on the original island started to wash its potatoes, suddenly all the colonies of monkeys on the other islands began to wash their potatoes too! The “hundredth monkey effect” can be seen as a demonstration of monkey’s mental agility and quick-wittedness. It is never a good idea to try to outwit Monkey, because Monkey will always have the upper hand! It is agile not only physically, but mentally too. The baboon, which is part of Monkey’s family, is renowned for its sincerity and loyalty, and the whole tribe is famous for its sophisticated family structure. Monkey makes a wonderful parent; it plays with its young as well as teaches them, all the while keeping a strong sense of discipline.
If you possess Monkey medicine, you are highly intelligent and never short of new ideas. You can also be a chatterer and enjoy playing jokes on people. You make a wonderful parent.
Moose
Moose is one of the most ancient spirit animals, referred to in tales of the Algonquin Indians as mong-soa, the “twig eater.” Whenever a Moose appears, it is considered to be a unique gift. Anyone who has the opportunity to come into contact with Moose will find that a secret doorway to their unique gifts has been opened up. Moose is full of contradictions and teaches us that appearances can be deceptive. Moose is large, strange, sometimes awkward, and yet majestic and full of grace. Moose weighs around 1,800 pounds and yet moves quickly and silently. Despite its great size, Moose also has an uncanny ability to camouflage itself. It can cover vast distances at great speed and has excellent depth of perception, accurately negotiating any kind of territory. Moose can travel across land and its woody domain easily, yet is equally at ease in snowdrifts, marshes, etc. Moose can plunge to the bottom of lakes, from whence it will resurface with fresh greens dangling from its mouth. Thus Moose teaches us to plunge back into the depths of situations and draw new life and nourishment from them. Moose also demonstrates the importance of self-reliance and the ability to overcome all adversity. Moose has a highly developed sense of smell and hearing and can bestow gifts of clairaudience to those who share its medicine.
If you possess Moose medicine, you have great inner strength and help others to unlock their spiritual gifts. Your depth of perception helps you to seek out the truth and find solutions in the face of adversity.
Mouse
Mouse is noted for its attention to detail, leaving more important matters to fall into place by themselves; sometimes Mouse can be so focused on the little things that it fails to notice the bigger picture. Because Mouse has many predators, it is used to organizing its life carefully. For Native Americans, Mouse is trusting and innocent and it is through its habits that it is able to stay away from those who would attack it. Although Mouse is small, it can be a fierce fighter and highly successful as it applies itself diligently to the matter at hand. It resembles Reepicheep, the mouse who cut the lion’s bonds in The Chronicles of Narnia. Because Mouse sees everything in miniature, it has a very limited terrain and teaches us to appreciate our own corner in life, without always yearning for wider horizons. Mouse is industrious and it knows there is always more to learn, which is why being well organized appeals to it. Being this way means it can classify and absorb its new knowledge.
If you possess Mouse medicine, you are well organized and hardworking, always able to appreciate the little things in life. However, you must never forget to dream and to see further than the end of your nose.
Opossum
The great pretender, Opossum is best known for pretending to be dead (“playing possum”). If it is attacked and plays dead, its attacker will give up, leaving Opossum to scramble to safety. Sometimes it is good to ignore provocation, or to put up a barrier to stop other people’s shortcomings from hurting us in any way. Opossum shows us how appearances can matter in difficult situations, pushing us to demonstrate fearlessness even though we may be trembling inside. We may need to act out a role or express an emotion we don’t feel; Opossum people can make fine actors. Opossum uses its mental powers to outwit the enemy, and teaches us how to prepare for all eventualities.
If you possess Opossum medicine, you have great powers of negotiation; you are able to extricate yourself from any tricky or embarrassing situation. Your strategy of knowing exactly what kind of role to play at the right time enables you to escape many a tight corner.
Otter
Otter represents the female energies in both men and women. It is the most playful animal there is, spending much time raising and playing with its pups. As it lives partly in the water and partly on the shore, it is associated with these two great female energies (water and earth); it is a wonderful mother. Although Otter loves playing above all, it is also full of curiosity about what is going on around it; everything captures its interest. In Native American medicine, its hide is often used to make medicine pouches containing healing herbs and natural healing products. Otter has a strong sense of family, and both male and female are involved in child rearing. They are faithful companions and represent inventiveness and nobility as well as a balanced and happy home life.
If you possess Otter medicine, you are full of imagination and love playful occupations. You bring your love of life to any situation. Family ties are very important to you, and you are capable of making great sacrifices to preserve balance and happiness.
Owl
Owl is able to see in the dark and can often see things other people cannot. It is insightful. Many cultures have associated Owl with death, and because universal law states that where there is death there is always rebirth, this makes it a powerful symbol of transformation. Owl people are often drawn to magic and esoteric practices. Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom, is usually portrayed with an owl on her shoulder. Because Owl is a bird of the night, it can see and hear things others cannot, and it is able to pass this knowledge on. Dark places are where people hide their secrets; this is Owl’s favored territory as it can bring in light. Owl people are noted for their keen perception of what goes on around them, and they can appear formidable to those who do not have their powers. Because Owl is symbolic of the moon and all that is feminine, its magic is allied to fertility, seduction, wisdom, and prophecy. Owl people have the uncanny ability to extract secrets and uncover hidden truths. Owl medicine enables you to see into the depths of people’s souls, which can make people uncomfortable.
If you possess Owl medicine, you have great wisdom and an affinity for magic and esoteric practices. You easily extract secrets and uncover people’s hidden motivations. You are an animal of the night (a “night owl”) and know everything about the art of seduction.
Pig
Pig sometimes gets a bad press, and Pig people may find that others do not always give them credit for the wisdom and qualities they possess. Pig (also known as Hog) possesses the inquisitiveness that goes with a high level of intelligence. Pig can be very placid and courageous when it needs to be, although it is sometimes rather self-indulgent and this is where Pig may be (unfairly) criticized. Pig is, after all, concerned with getting what is best for its family. Pig has also been considered to be impure; this seems to be quite unjustified given its well-deserved reputation for its refined sense of smell. Pig is considered a far better truffle hunter than a dog, and is used by many police forces to sniff out drugs, which it does with great success. Pig reminds us to “sniff out” things, to dig deeper, to persevere. Pig (and its first cousin, Boar) are noted for their fidelity, and are cheerful and patient. They may seem cumbersome, but, when speed is needed, they can be extremely swift on their feet. Boar has a thick skin and this protects it against the barbs of the outside world.
If you possess Pig medicine, you have an uncommonly high level of intelligence and an insatiable curiosity for discovering the world. Your keen sensitivity and your warm nature will give much happiness to your family and friends.
Porcupine
Porcupine is the symbol of childlike innocence. It is good-natured and curious and enjoys discovering new opportunities. It goes at its own speed and is a strong climber, liking to live in trees. It has a craving for salt and, if Porcupine is your spirit animal, this could be something to watch carefully. Porcupine represents trust and creates space for others to open their hearts. Its most noticeable feature, its quills, is used only when its trust has been breached and, contrary to popular belief, it will attack only when attacked. Porcupines can swim because when their quills are standing up they are filled with air, making them buoyant. These quills are not poisonous, but they do represent sharpness, and Porcupine people can be quick to plant their barbs if they feel attacked. Porcupines are susceptible to colds, and Porcupine people are advised to eat well with the emphasis on foods rich in nutrients and vitamins.
If you possess Porcupine medicine, you have a lively, playful, and generous nature and a kind heart. However, if your confidence is betrayed, you never forgive.
Rabbit
Rabbit symbolizes many things: It is a prolific reproducer, with several litters of babies each year—representing sexuality, fertility, and growth (spiritual and mental as well as physical). Rabbit also teaches us about fear. When we feel trapped, rather than putting all our energy into trying to avoid the situation (the skittish nature of rabbit), we need to learn how to confront it head on. Rabbit teaches us that when we try to avoid what we fear, we attract it into our lives instead. Rabbit is soft and cuddly and keeps us connected to our gentler side. It travels by hopping and leaping, not always with a clear sense of direction. Rabbit people will often see unexpected change in their lives arriving by leaps and bounds. Rabbit can take off from a standing start; it can stop or change direction very rapidly and teaches us that we can do this too. Native Americans consider that among the many qualities of Rabbit there is a sense of innocence. Because it is most often seen at dawn and twilight, it is associated with the faerie realm. Rabbit can help you cross into non-ordinary reality; it is no coincidence that Alice fell down a rabbit hole into Wonderland and was helped on her journey by a rabbit.
If you possess Rabbit medicine, your personality has multiple aspects; you can be both soft, passionate, and undecided and, on the other hand, hot-blooded and sexually powerful. You may have a tendency to dash off in any direction, unexpectedly. You are able to teach others how to overcome their fears.
Raven
Raven is known for its magical powers. Its black plumage with a blue-green iridescence represents the void from which all things were created. For the Native Americans, the color black has no negative connotations; they consider it to represent the mysteries of life and the search for answers. Raven is also a messenger who takes its healing message to those who need it most. When Raven appears, it is usually a sign of change, or of impending danger. It is able to go into the dark places in our soul and heal our pain. Raven also adores jokes and fun, and it loves to find shiny objects, which it will take and store in its nest. Raven is intelligent and creative at using any tool, stones or other items, to help it crack open nuts. It has immense creative power and teaches us how to understand and work the magic of the spiritual laws to our advantage. It can take what is yet unformed and shape it into what you desire. Raven often symbolizes death and rebirth, with “death” purely meaning the birth of a new stage in life.
If you possess Raven medicine, you are a messenger for your people. You are a healer and a magician and can create anything you desire. You have the ability to see what has been concealed and hidden from view.
Rhinoceros
Rhinoceros is a survivor from the period when large mammals walked the earth and thus is known for its ancient wisdom. A watchword of old mystery schools is “know thyself,” and Rhinoceros people should endeavor to assimilate both these concepts (wisdom and self-knowledge) into their lives. Rhinoceros teaches that it is important to learn to trust our own inner wisdom, to seek out and hold on to our own truth. Rhinoceros has the capacity to be comfortable with solitude, spending much of its time on its own. The expression “the hide of a rhinoceros” tends to be used to describe someone who appears completely insensitive to outside influences; Rhinoceros, with its fund of ancient wisdom and its sense of knowing its role in life, brings a new, more positive meaning to this expression. Rhinoceros also represents masculine sexuality and brute force. When it charges ahead at full speed, it never hesitates or doubts. The word “rhinoceros” comes from rhino, meaning nose, and keras, meaning horn. Its horn is situated on its nose and not on its head as is usual with other animals. Rhinoceros people will have a more developed sense of smell, which may tend to compensate for poor sight and hearing. They can, however, surprise others with their great agility when danger lurks around the corner. Rhinoceros looks beneath the surface for the truth, teaching us not to judge a situation by its appearance.
If you possess Rhinoceros medicine, you are a loner by nature. Your innate wisdom and ability to discriminate “good” from “bad” helps you discover new horizons, supporting you in your unending quest for truth.
Rooster and Hen
Rooster can be heard crowing to welcome the day; it represents the resurrection of the light, the time when evil spirits (abroad during the night) disappear. This is why it is often found on weather vanes of ancient churches, alert, waiting for the sun to rise. Rooster is the master of its flock of hens as it moves nimbly among them, all the while watching over them very closely. It is very much the male of the family and fertilizes all their eggs. As such, Rooster represents sexuality, although its strutting can also symbolize arrogance and an overinflated sense of self (being “cocksure” or “cocky”).
Hen is an ancient symbol of fertility, as it is a prolific egg-layer. The egg has also come to symbolize the festival of rebirth that is Easter. The Chinese tend to view Rooster and Hen as being full of dynamism, and this, coupled with their tradition of fertility, makes them heralds of rebirth. Rooster and Hen people tend to be vigilant, and little escapes their notice. Rooster’s powers of observation can also be understood to represent spiritual vigilance. Rooster is mentioned several times in the New Testament, heralding the birth of Jesus and, before the Crucifixion, crowing after Peter denied Jesus three times (as prophesied). Hen and Rooster herald times of change, new birth, and renewed energy.
If you possess Rooster medicine, you are often telepathic and at the forefront of new ideas and projects. You are enthusiastic, optimistic, dynamic, and proud.
If you possess Hen medicine, you bring about renewal and infuse all projects in life with a sense of renewed purpose. You are prolific, generous, and successful in everything you undertake.
Salmon
Salmon teaches trust and, by its journey every year back to the grounds that spawned it, shows a deep sense of loyalty and renewal. Despite all the obstacles, it is single-minded and we can learn the lesson of perseverance from its dogged annual journey back upstream, knowing that the power to follow a deeply held vision is always open to us. For the Celts, Salmon is a sacred symbol and represents immortality, perseverance, and not being swayed from a chosen path. It is a symbol of fertility and renewal. Some of the Native American tribes consider that Salmon comes from a race of immortals that could turn themselves into fish in order to reproduce. Because salmon is a staple of their diet, they always throw Salmon’s bones back into the rivers to carry its spirit to the sea, where the cycle (of rebirth) will begin again.
If you possess Salmon medicine, you have great inner resourcefulness. You are able to hold on to your vision as well as encourage others to trust theirs.
Snake
Snake is a symbol of transformation as well as being a powerful healer. It symbolizes transformation (death and rebirth) by the shedding of its skin. Snake medicine represents healing through sexuality, reproduction, alchemy, and the power of creation. Although snake venom can be poisonous, it can also be used in many kinds of medicine. Snake ceremonies usually involve the transmutation of poisons by someone who has become immune to the venom after being bitten numerous times; such an example encourages us to transform any other kind of poison we may meet in life into something harmless too. The caduceus, two snakes entwined on a staff, represents healing all over the world and symbolizes the power of wisdom in healing. The symbol of Snake’s head was worn over the brow chakra in ancient Egypt and was considered to be a sign of awakening of the deeper powers of intuition. Snake is also represented in the kundalini3 energy that lies coiled at the base of the spine until it is drawn upward, activating the chakras (energy centers), bringing us to a new level of awareness.
If you possess Snake medicine, you are able to turn poison into something harmless (just like the alchemist), using it to heal. You are able to raise the level of your spiritual consciousness at will and can become a master of creation.
Spider
In many traditions, the act of Spider weaving its web is thought to represent the threads of our destiny. It represents creativity. Spider is said to communicate by causing certain strands in its web to vibrate; these sounds can be picked up and transmitted around the universe. Spider weaves its web carefully and in times past the silk was used to cover wounds. The web is extremely strong, and Spider leaves the sticky threads on the outside to catch its food. Because the center of the web is where it is—where the non-sticky threads are found—it knows where to tread; Spider people know their own power—what to avoid and which things to grasp. By following Spider’s example, we too can learn balance, which leads to true creativity. Being able to walk the threads of the web requires physical balance, and Spider is an agile creature. Certain mythologies refer to Spider walking the spaces between the different dimensions. Some species of Spider, who have a propensity for killing their mate, also symbolize the cycle of life and death. The web can be a sign of illusion, and Spider teaches us how not to get caught up in it.
If you possess Spider medicine, you are highly creative and never lose sight of your goal. Nobody can hide their secrets from you, and you have the gift to see beyond the masks of illusion that people may present.
Squirrel
Squirrel represents saving, as it stores up food in the summer for use in the leaner, darker days ahead. It teaches us frugality and to preserve our energy for times when we need it the most. It also teaches us not to judge too rapidly, but to wait until we have all the necessary elements to make an informed decision. We speak of “squirreling” something away, meaning to put it in a safe place for later use. Tearing from branch to branch, Squirrel is difficult to pin down. It is sociable but likes to choose those whom it mixes with. It also represents change and shows us how to let go and get rid of things that are not important to us or that have outlived their usefulness. These can be thoughts, projects, situations, or objects such as old clutter. Squirrel stores those things that do matter, finding a safe space to hide them away. This is one of its lessons to us: once everything necessary is stored away and everything superfluous tossed out, we can move forward with a light heart. Squirrel chatters to communicate, and the movement of its tail expresses its emotions. It tells us not to forget that playfulness is an important aspect of life.
If you possess Squirrel medicine, you are able to discern those things that are important and those that are not. You are hardworking and thoughtful, but you mustn’t forget to take the time to express your feelings.
Swan
Swan is so graceful and powerful as it spreads its wings and flies. The French word cygne is pronounced in the same way as signe (“sign” in English), and when Swan crosses our path it often carries the message that we should be aware of the signs that life is showing us and open up to the beauty and grace within. Swan is often the precursor of change; it symbolizes transformation, demonstrated by an ordinary little cygnet turning into something as magnificent as a Swan. It was a sacred symbol for love and associated with the Greek goddess Aphrodite (goddess of love). Zeus even took on the form of a swan to seduce a mortal, thus representing Swan’s ability to cross dimensions. Mating for life is a characteristic of Swan and when one partner dies, the other is often inconsolable. Working with Swan medicine can help us to balance the male and female in each one of us and, once we have achieved this and become whole in ourselves, we can go forward and attract the perfect mate. Swan’s beauty and purity can awaken our own inner beauty and enable us to see the beauty in others. It can also awaken us to our own power; it is immensely strong and can easily break a person’s arm with its powerful wings. Extremely protective, it will attack only when there are young cygnets around.
If you possess Swan medicine, you like to protect the weak. You have a great capacity for seeing the beauty that is to be found in everything, and when you realize your inner strength, you become a powerful ally.
Turtle
Turtle is the symbol of the essence of Mother Earth: Native Americans call their continent (North America) “Turtle Island” not only because of its shape, but also in honor of their ancestors, who looked after the land with the same nurturing qualities as Turtle’s. They consider that they were born from the womb of the earth, from the Great Mother, and to her soil they will return. In Native American tradition, a journey into the womb of Mother Earth is experienced by the use of the sweat lodge, which is shaped like a turtle’s shell. The structure of a sweat lodge is made from young tree branches that are bent over in a semicircle and covered with different types of blankets. At the center, a pit is dug for the fire, which is made from heated volcanic stones. Water is then poured on these to create steam (similar to a sauna). A sweat lodge is used for purification, giving access to a higher level of consciousness, an opening up to the subtle energy of the earth. In this way, Turtle teaches us about respect for the earth—the way in which we can take from and give back to her.
Turtle has a protective shell and, when threatened, can withdraw to be completely hidden from the outside. In this way it can honor its feelings and regain its strength, as well as mask its vulnerability from predators. Turtle’s two elements are earth and water and it moves slowly and carefully, showing us that watchfulness and patience are qualities that enable us to arrive at a successful outcome at the right time. Well grounded, it is compassionate and tolerant; it symbolizes generosity. Turtle teaches us the qualities of Mother Earth, how to care for ourselves and all those around us. Turtle stimulates our physical and spiritual senses; it can see, hear, and sense vibrations in the water through its shell. It can help us with clairvoyance, clairaudience, and clairsentience.
If you possess Turtle medicine, you will always reach your goals. You are well able to take care of others and you are extremely generous. Your connection with the earth is very important to you, and you would never use your strength to do anything that would harm the earth, the ecosystem, and humanity.
Whale
Whale teaches us to connect with our intuition and our instincts and shows us by its peaceful, non-aggressive nature that gentleness can be powerful, that it does not diminish our inner strength. Whale, the oldest mammal, is said to come from Sirius (the Dog Star) and is known to be the keeper of the akashic4 records. Some Native American traditions revere Whale as a messenger from the Great Spirit; by beaching and dying in the media spotlight, it is thought that Whale wants to wake us up to the need to take better care of our planet if we want to survive. Whale’s sonar helps us to tap into the hidden areas of our being. The days Jonah spent inside Whale can be a message to us to go inside ourselves and awaken our creativity. Whale enabled the Native peoples in the Far North to survive in an inhospitable climate by providing food and skins for clothing; it teaches us to be practical as well as spiritual and intuitive. Whale’s songs and frequencies balance our emotions, and the sounds of its clicking and calling are often used to calm troubled minds. This is the song of the Great Spirit; when we learn to sing along we are on the way to a deep sense of healing.
If you possess Whale medicine, you are a healer and a guardian of the earth. Your intuitive feelings are very often correct and when you really listen and follow them, then everything around you works out for the best.
Wolf
Wolf has a highly developed sense of family and is respected as a great teacher. The ancestor of the dog family, Wolf is also said to have come from Sirius (the Dog Star), the home of teachers. Wolf embodies the canine qualities of loyalty and devotion to its community. Many great civilizations have Wolf as their founder, as in the Roman tale of Remus and Romulus. Wolf is ritualistic in nature and lives by carefully defined rules. It has its own specific territory and lives within a hierarchical family structure with complex codes of conduct. Wolf can communicate effectively with a posture, a flick of the tail, a growl, or even just a glance. Every member of the pack knows where it stands in relationship to each of the other members. Wolf teaches us to believe in our own talents. Wolf’s important lessons are about family, love, and trust. Nothing escapes Wolf’s attention; it can pick up vibrations and can tell immediately whether someone is sincere. Wolf helps us to find security when we leave our comfort zones; by seeking the truth, we can make room for the new. Wolf is the true free spirit and has always been greatly revered by Native Americans. Wolf is extremely intelligent and goes out of its way to avoid danger. Wolf has a highly developed sense of smell and hearing, and people who share Wolf medicine will have excellent intuition.
If you possess Wolf medicine, you are a teacher, a guardian of the truth, and a protector. You will have excellent intuition and will work tirelessly to serve your community.
1. The word “Hopi” literally means “peaceful people.” The Hopis are considered to be one of the most ancient Native American Indian communities.
2. The earth elementals are beings, sometimes known as gnomes, that work to maintain the physical structure and quality of earth. They assist with the growth of plants, maintaining the quality of the soil, creating the right balance of crystals and minerals, etc.
3. The term comes from the Sanskrit word for “snake.”
4. A Sanskrit word that means “field of consciousness in the ethers.” In shamanic cultures, the akashic records refer to a huge library in the non-ordinary reality where the knowledge and soul memories of everything that has ever existed are recorded.