ANIMAL MEDICINE WITH THE SHAMAN SHANE KNOX

Animal Totems are powerful energies that can assist us in all areas of our lives.  I've created this page, in conjunction with Mark's PowerPeek,  to explore the meanings behind animal totems and how to work with animal medicine.  

We each have animal totems or power animals that are unique to us.  Often these totems will take the form of a beloved pet or actual animal that finds it's way into your life.  Most times, however these animals appear to us energetically.  That is to say their presence is made known to us through tv programs, sightings of the animal, dreams, recurring conversations, visions, etc.  If one but pays attention to their world they will begin to see the animal totems that already exist in their life.  

Once we open to this type of energy and thinking we have opened ourselves to call on any animal totem at any time.  We are able to call these energies into our lives by focussing on them through prayer, ceremony or intention.  This is the very essence of animal medicine.  

Each week I will be adding another animal totem and periodically discuss further how to work with these amazing and helpful energies.

 Robin
I had been thinking it was time for another Animal Totem to show itself for me to write about but nothing had presented itself.  I was enjoying a cup, ok several cups, of a new fair trade coffee from a local shop and going through my Intentions in my mind.  We've had nice weather here lately after much rain and flooding so I wandered outside to see how the flowers were doing in the newly arrived sun.  There on my front porch was a perfect Robin's egg.  I'm not sure why but I hesitated to pick it up even though it was obviously lost to the nest.  Finally, I gently picked it up and found myself drawn into the soft blue color.  I started thinking about the symbolism of the egg and how it was the perfect representation of the stage that many of my Intentions were in. 

Blue is the color of the throat chakra, which is all about our personal expression.  It is representative of not only what we say but also how we present ourselves in all ways.  Our jobs, clothes, hobbies...everything about us is a part of our expression.  I was completely lost in the color and significance of the egg when I realized that there was a beautiful rolling trill that was filling the air.  I looked around to find the source the beautiful song and found that it was coming from an adult Robin in a nearby tree.  It was obvious that Spirit had picked the Animal Totem that wanted to step forward into our awareness. 

An obvious symbol of springtime, the Robin brings with it a sense of freshness and renewal after a long winter.  Her song reminds us that this is a time of year to lay the eggs of our intentions and birth newness into our lives. 

Robins are known for their red breasts.  The legend is that a Robin pulled a bloodied thorn from the crown of thorns that Jesus wore on the cross.  The blood marked the bird for all time and it has ever since been a symbol of the selfless relieving of another's suffering.  The Robin teaches us to step gracefully into service of others.  The red marking also tells us that we ourselves are changed by the experience of helping another.  So often I see people stuck in a negative cycle, feeling like they are powerless to change their lives.  I always suggest that doing something good for another is the easiest way to make things better in your own world.  Robin embodies this thought perfectly. 

As I mentioned, the song of the Robin is beautiful.  It is a cheerful, rolling song that the Robin belts out with enthusiasm.  It is the call to a potential mate and a warning to competitors that the area is taken.  We can all learn from the lesson of communicating in a positive and direct manner.  Robins embody positive communication to the extent that a sort of singing competition solves most conflicts, even over a mate or territory.  On the rare occasion that an actual "fight" breaks out it is largely for show with no actual injuries. 

Both parents share in the feeding and care of the young.  They feed on average of every twelve minutes.  Even more astounding is that they often have more than one brood in each breeding season.  This collective effort and constant tending to a task is a valuable example for people working with others toward a collective goal.  Robin teaches us diligence and duty but reminds us to remain happy and upbeat in our tasks. 

If a Robin appears in your life it is time to ask yourself about your expression and what it is that you want to create in your world.  She reminds us to sing our own personal song and to simply be happy in ourselves. 


I was working with a client earlier this week on the idea of finding her voice.  She was in a situation that required her to speak her mind.  Just as I was really trying to drive home the point Apollo, my macaw started screaming at the top of his lungs.  Now if you have ever been around a large parrot you understand that this is not a small statement.  When Apollo speaks, everyone listens.  They have no choice.  My client looked at me and asked if we could just train the bird to say what needed said instead of her having to do it herself.  We both laughed at the thought and finally decided that she should pull on the totem of the macaw to help her find her voice instead.  I knew right then and there that our animal of the week was to be the majestic macaw. 

I have had the honor of living with two different macaws, both of the blue and gold variety.  They have proven to be the most challenging and the most rewarding animal companions I’ve shared space with.  Communication is one of the greatest attributes of the macaw.  They can be loud which helps us to find strength in our voices, but they also learn to “speak” our language.  While many people believe that the macaw only mimics words I can tell you for a fact that is not true.  Any word I have taught him and associated meaning to he uses in context.  This teaches us to learn from others and to realize that no barrier to our understanding is too great, even if the gap is as large as jumping species.  It also shows us the value of placing meaning on all aspects of our lives.  I have often said in readings to people that if you place meaning on everything in your life you will suddenly have a very meaningful world to live in. 

A macaw’s scream can be heard through miles of dense jungle.  Anyone with need to broadcast a message or to communicate over distances will benefit from the macaws medicine.  Macaws don’t only communicate through verbal means.  They have a complex body language that can help us to understand what is being said without words in any situation.  

Macaws are amazingly colorful birds.  This ties them to the sun and healing.  Macaw can help us to illuminate any situation and shed light on it for greater understanding.  They remind us that even in the darkest night of the soul there is the promise of sunrise to come.  In this way they are a symbol of great faith, which can lead to healing on all levels.  For those that wish to explore color therapy or chakra word, macaw can be a very powerful totem to embrace.  The Mayans considered the macaw so sacred that they used the feathers in all of their major ceremonies and healing rites.  Anyone facing health issues or needing to heal any aspect of their lives should call on the macaw.

Headstrong and determined, these birds have complex emotions and bond to their keepers in a dramatic way.  They manage to maintain an independent energy even while developing this bond.  Many of us could learn from this example of not losing our identities for the sake of another while still being part of a meaningful relationship.

They are also extremely acrobatic and playful birds.  They remind us the value of physical activity.  When macaw swoops into your life it is time to leave the nest to get out and play for a while.

Aside from the colors and feathering of the macaw, the most striking feature is the beak.  It is quite large and extremely powerful.  Macaws can crack Brazil nuts and walnuts with ease.  This helps us to understand that many of life’s rewards come after we break through the difficulties and obstacles present.

They also have extremely long tails that are a combination of function and beauty.  The tail allows the bird to balance on its perch and acts as a rudder when in flight.  When we strive for balance in all areas of life we attain a graceful quality that is the hallmark of the spiritually enlightened. 

The macaw can live to be over 90 years old.  When this totem appears in your life it symbolizes a long cycle of growth and change.  This also makes the macaw the perfect totem to call on for any endeavor that requires a long-term investment of time.

A little known fact about macaws is that they blush when they get emotional.  The white part of the face of a macaw is actually skin, not feathers.  When they get emotional this white patch will turn pink.  This outward display of emotion can help many of us to become comfortable with our own emotional expression.  By being willing to express our emotions outwardly we are validating our feelings and experience in life.  This is one of the greatest understandings that macaw can bring to your world.   


 

Blue Whale
Blue whales are the largest animal on the planet today and are most likely the largest animal to ever live on planet Earth.  Blue whales can reach over a hundred feet in length.   They can weigh up to 150 tons and their hearts are the size of a small car.  In fact, the blue whale is so large that it could not survive on land as it would be crushed under it’s own weight.  This reminds us how important it is to be supported by our surroundings and environment. 

The mother nurses Blue Whale babies for six months.  The milk is so rich that it allows an amazing rate of growth, ten pounds an hour or over 200 pounds in a single day.  Such rapid growth and expansion is a powerful energy that whales can bring to your endeavors.  The milk represents having everything provided that is necessary for this growth to occur in your life.  It also reminds us to take in the richness that life has to offer.

Blue whales are mammals, which means they breathe air.  They surface every five to ten minutes to take a breath but can hold their breath for long periods of time while diving to incredible depths.  The balance between the emotional energy of water and the intellectual energy of air can help us to learn to balance our thoughts and feelings.  Whales are “voluntary” breathers.  This means that they choose when they take a breath as opposed to the automatic way that we breathe.  Being able to choose when and how to take in what you need is a remarkable talent that whale can teach us.

The scientific name of the Blue Whale translates into “the mouse whale”.  This is obviously a humorous statement for the largest animal on the planet.  Being able to laugh at ourselves and to always maintain a sense of humor is the hallmark of this giants medicine.

Blue whales have a huge migratory path that they follow each year.  They travel from cold feeding grounds to warmer water for reproduction, symbolizing the need to transition into the proper environment to create that which we want in our lives.  It is believed that the Blue Whale has the ability to follow the magnetic currents along the ocean floor to find its way.  For those wishing to develop their intuition whale can show you how to trust your inner guidance, especially when you aren’t able to see where your intuition is leading you in the physical world. 

The Blue Whale emanates a low grumbling call.  Their songs can be louder than a jet airplane and allows them to communicate with other whales hundreds of miles away.  Anyone working on endeavors concerning mass or long distance communication can benefit from whales abilities.  Remember though, when we empower ourselves with such a strong voice we are also taking on a huge responsibility to use that voice is a way that isn’t damaging or threatening to others.  There is great power in our words and we must remain mindful of what it is we are sending out into the world. 

Amazingly powerful, the Blue Whale is poetry in motion as it glides easily and quickly through the water.  Strength and power are nothing without grace and poise.  The Blue Whale can not only help you to gain great strength and personal power, but can also teach you how to use that power with a flowing ease.

This enormous creature feeds on Krill.  Quite literally, the largest animal feeds on one of the smallest.  We are reminded through this that even the tiniest detail can make all the difference in our quest for personal expansion.  It also shows us that there is nothing that comes into our world, no matter how small, that doesn’t in some way affect our wellbeing.  


 

Lion

I received an email this week from a reader of the PowerPeek asking that I feature the Lion as our animal for the week.   What was most interesting about this for me is that I have never really worked with lion energy personally, so I settled into a meditation and asked the lion to come to me and reveal it’s secrets.  Very slowly I felt a presence creep into my awareness.  Shortly it was joined by another, and then another, two more…an entire pride of lions was now with me in my meditation space.  As I relaxed into the images I saw immediately why the lion is called the king of the jungle.

I got up and started reading my resource books and some sites online to get a physical perspective to go with the intuitive qualities that lion had shown me.  Lions have long been a symbol of courage and strength. They represent the sun and optimism, gold and all that is good.  They are powerful cats that rule their territory with ferocity and dominance.  They mark their territory as a warning to all that this is their space and that they are the masters of that space.  Through this we are shown the importance of claiming our place in the world by establishing our identities and boundaries and expressing them to others in definite terms.  Lion reminds us that it is far better to happen to life than to allow life to happen to you.

Lions are one of the few cats that live and work in a group.  The pride is vital to the survival of the lion and helps us to understand how to work within the groups we find ourselves in.  Lions even hunt in groups.  Often the males will use their powerful roar to herd animals to the waiting females who take down the prey and make the kill.  The success of the hunt is dependant on lion’s ability to use stealth.  They move silently through the grass until they have their prey within grasp and then spring collectively into the hunt.  Everyone plays a part and everyone benefits from the success of the accomplishment.  This attitude is one that any group endeavor can benefit from.

 The differing roles within the hunt have caused many to see the male lion as lazy.  This is not quite accurate.  I see it much more as a lesson that sometimes we can accomplish our goals with communication and sometimes it requires action.  The distinction of roles between the lion and lioness teach us to value our own contributions to any endeavor rather than to be envious of another’s part. 

The other aspect of a lion’s pride is the obvious play on words.  The lion is indeed a proud animal.  The striking mane of the lion helps us to understand the value of appearances.  If you have ever seen one in person you are overwhelmed by the size and majesty of this animal.  When we invest in our appearance it is a reflection of an inner love for ourselves.  Many would call this vanity, but not the lion.  The lion is quite comfortable in it’s beauty and will spend hours grooming itself and even each other.  Meditation on the difference between vanity and positive self-image is a gift of the lion’s medicine.

While the lion is a powerful animal it will not fight unless it has no other option.  Lion reserves it’s strength and picks its battles.  Many of us could benefit from this approach to life.  Learning to avoid unnecessary conflict is the sign of the enlightened. 

Lion is there to give us hope and courage.  They help us to find our place in life with optimism and self-assuredness.  When this amazing cat comes into our lives it is a reminder that we are all kings and queens of our own realities and experiences.  All we have to do is to claim our place on the throne. 
 

 

Coyote
As I was looking at the field across from my house I saw two animals in the distance running back and forth.  I grabbed the binoculars in time to see two coyotes playing a game of tag with each other.  They nipped and ran and were obviously having quite a bit of fun.  Then, just as I was totally caught up in the game, they disappeared into the tree line.  Just like that the game was over and they were on their way.  I found myself thinking about their carefree manner and love of the chase with each other.  They seemed to be trying to tell me something even though they were seemingly unaware of my presence in any way. 

Coyote teaches us the amazing gift of being able to laugh at ourselves.  Coyote is known as “the trickster”.  Many confuse this as being an adversarial energy but nothing could be farther from the truth.  Coyote wants only to help us find humility and humor when we would normally take ourselves far too seriously.  When coyote comes into our lives it is often during a time of great stress or troubles.  Coyote only wants to help you through such times with laughter and perspective. 

Coyotes are devoted family members.  The male and female share in the parenting duties and spend a great deal of time teaching the pups how to be the best coyote they can be.  The desire to pass along what has been learned is a strong need within many of us, and coyote can help us to step into our role as a teacher.  Coyote reminds us that the difference between knowledge and wisdom is experience.  When we share our experiences with another it not only provides them a chance to learn through us but it also allows us to gain new perspective on our own experiences. 

Coyotes often hunt in a cooperative manner, each taking a turn to run down the prey until it tires enough to be caught.  This ability to work with others and the understanding of when to “pass the torch” can help many of us to accomplish greater goals than we could working alone.  Coyote is so well versed in this that they will even work with other animals, such as the badger when hunting.  By stepping outside of their own kind they often achieve greater successes.  This shows us the value of breaking out of old ways of doing things and helps us to embrace the ways of others that come into our lives. 

A coyote will often use the same den for years.  However, they only use it as a base of operation.  They will have babies there, retreat for safety and rest or simply hide out in their den but then they always feel the pull to roam again.  Many of us can benefit from the notion of returning to our sacred space to recharge our energy and our spirit to accomplish the next task.  Coyote helps us to understand the value of our home in our lives while also teaching us that adventure and experience await us whenever we are ready to pursue them. 

Although coyotes are often rough in appearance they are the keepers of great understanding and wisdom.  The next time you find yourself taking life too seriously don’t be surprised if coyote comes loping into your world to make you step back and laugh at yourself. 

 

Bison (North American Buffalo)

We were in the car driving to dinner when my partner looked at me and asked, “What is the animal for this week?”  I tried to act cool, knowing that I had nothing to offer as a response.  I stepped into that all familiar prayer of the desperate when he said, “we’re going to Buffalo Wild Wings…the buffalo would be a cool animal totem.”  I couldn’t deny it.  I had asked for an answer and one was instantly given.  It was quite evident that the buffalo represents prayers answered. 

This is in fact the truest essence of this animal’s medicine.  The Native Americans were hunter/gatherers, often suffering great losses to starvation, especially during the winter months.  They prayed to Great Mystery/ Great Spirit for relief.  They asked for abundance for the people.  It was then that the White Buffalo Calf Woman appeared to the people and bestowed upon them the blessing of prayer and manifestation.  She brought them the understanding of asking and receiving of what we desire in life. 

The Native peoples were saved as a race due in no small part to the hunting of the bison.  Great prayers were said before the taking of this animal’s life and no part of it was wasted after the fact.  The bison literally clothed, fed and housed the people.  The relationship between prayer and manifestation in the physical is the greatest understanding the bison brings to us.  Showing reverence to the spirit that resides within all things is the mark of the spiritual master. 

Bison have huge heads and humped shoulders.   These over-exaggerated features teach us the value of combining higher thinking with physical effort.  The head is the seat of thought and higher spirituality, while the shoulders represent physical action.  The unification of these to aspects creates an amazing ability to affect our physical reality.  The connotation of “as above so below” takes on a deeper, truer meaning when bison appears in your life.  By marrying our thoughts with our actions we empower ourselves to create our lives as we would have them be.

Bison are herd animals.  This understanding of the safety in numbers and the group mentality is essential for some to understand their roles in life.  For many, the ability to simply blend in and become one of the masses is quite important.  This thought can also be taken to mean that we are all in this together and we are, in fact, our brother/sisters keeper. 

The bison is often known as a buffalo, a term that refers to African and Asian animals.  The one thing that ties all of these animals together is the fact that tribal peoples depend on them for survival and connection to their physical world.  All tribes survive on the principal that everyone has a role and that all roles are necessary.  If everyone in the tribe does his or her part the tribe will survive.  If each individual does not fulfill his or her roll the tribe is weakened.  Bison reminds us of this interdependency of all things. 

Turtle 

I was reflecting on this time of year and how it makes so many of us want to hold up in our homes and wait for spring.  This draw to the safety and comfort of the home brought to mind turtle medicine.  Turtles literally carry their homes on their backs.  The shell of the turtle is it’s primary defense in a physical sense and an awesome representation of “going within” metaphorically.  The safety and comfort most of us find in our homes is something we can manifest in all areas of our life.  Turtle teaches us that by taking our sacred space with us and not limiting it to one geographical area that we have empowered ourselves with the understanding that sacred is a state of being not a point on a map.

Turtles live on land, near water.  The connection between these two earthy elements is often associated with the Faerie Realm.  There are many myths about turtles showing up in people’s lives just before an encounter with some sort of magickal being.  Water holds connection to our emotions and intuition while land represents being grounded and stable. Turtle teaches us to balance these qualities so that our emotions and higher guidance is always grounded in reality and practicality.  Not only does turtle move easily between these two energies, it seeks out shorelines as a place to live.  The gentle lapping of waves at the shoreline again shows us the flowing quality between emotion and reason that is true mastery of the self. 

Turtles are omnivorous, meaning they eat a wide variety of foods, everything from vegetation to small animals and fish.  This opportunistic way of existing is a skill many of us could benefit from.  Turtle teaches us to seize opportunities when they arise.  So often we get in our minds the only way to accomplish our goals.  We will fixate on one answer so much that we cannot see the other options that actually exist for us.  Turtle can help us to break this self-imposed limitation. 

Turtle medicine is one of methodical forward momentum.  Turtle doesn’t get in a hurry.  This amazing creature has all the time in the world to get where it’s going and can enjoy what life brings to it along the way.  What an amazing approach!   The never-ending pursuit of one’s goals coupled with the methodical and relaxed approach of turtle will ultimately lead you to success.  The bonus is that you might just stumble across something even more exciting than you had imagined by slowing down a bit and giving Spirit a chance to place new opportunities in your path. 

Contrary to popular belief a turtle can right itself if it is on it’s back.  They use the powerful muscles of their necks to flip themselves over with their heads.  The ability to use one’s head to get out of a rough situation is a true blessing that turtle brings with it.

There are over 250 varieties of turtle worldwide.  Studying the physical characteristics of the individual turtle that comes into your life can give deeper meaning to its medicine for you.  For example, a snapping turtle teaches us to use our words to defend ourselves where a box turtle might teach us to go within for our answers.  Painted turtles can teach us the power of colors, and so on.  If turtle comes crawling into your life it is time to seize opportunity and to balance your emotions and intuition with a true sense of being grounded. 

 
 

It never ceases to amaze me how Spirit manages to present me with a new animal each week to bring to you.  Yesterday I had an in person client who began her session with a story about seeing crows the entire way from her house to my office.  As she finished her story she said, “I don’t even know why I felt I needed to tell you this but I just had to”.  I just smiled, knowing that a powerful totem had flown through my client and right into my world.

The crow is a symbol of creation and magick.  The color black is representative of the Void or womb of creation.  Anyone wanting to tap into his or her creative side can greatly benefit by working with crow medicine.  This is especially true for endeavors that bring something into being that was previously not there.

Crows are very clean birds.  Even the young will not foul the nest.  This tidiness teaches us the value of taking care of our appearance and our home.  Our homes are reflections of our state of being internally.  If you find your home cluttered or messy it is important to look at the state of your thoughts and emotions.  They will no doubt be scattered and unorganized.  Crow can help us to put ourselves in order, which will ultimately be reflected in our physical world. 

A group of crows is called a “murder”.  Such a harsh word with such a noble creature teaches us to not get caught up in labels that others would place on us.  We are reminded that others perceptions are based on their perspective and often are not accurate assessments of ourselves.

Crows are very intelligent and are known for their ability to size up a situation to gain the greatest benefit for themselves.  Often, crows will post a sentinel to guard against predators and dangers.  This shows us the necessity of awareness.  When we are in tune with our surroundings we are empowered to change and affect them.  Too many people go through life in a sort of foggy awareness, never really connecting with this world or other people in a deep and meaningful sense.  Crow can help us to overcome this tendency and to embrace our world and all the beauty therein.  The sentinel posted by the murder of crows will often caw so loudly when presented by danger that they warn other animals in the process.  This selfless communication is an amazing quality that crow brings to us. 

Crows are drawn to shiny objects and many of these items end up in their nests.  Everything from coins to jewelry have been known to turn up in crow’s nests.  Anyone with monetary issues or matters of physical possessions will benefit from crow’s ability to bring wealth and gain into our lives.

The vocal ability of the crow is legendary, making it a great totem animal for those working on communication skills.  The crow has a complex set of “caws” each with a different meaning.  They can help us to find the way to communicate our thoughts effectively, as well as, helping us to understand others.  Communication is essential to any relationship and is often the aspect of life that limits most people’s experience.

If crow shows up in your life it is a time to tap into your creative abilities and push your life into a new and exciting phase.  It is a time to express yourself in a new way and find the direction in life that leads to your success and happiness. 


 

Deer
I had just finished a long day of readings in a town an hour from where I live and settled in for the drive home.  The drive was relaxing, something I needed after so much psychic and emotional energy.  I found myself instantly thinking about the animals.  I’m never sure which totem will present itself or how to inspire me to write about them but I knew something would click.  It always does.  I turned up the “Shamanic Dream” cd and decided to just let it come to me as it would.  I had made it all the way home and was turning off the interstate when I saw the Deer, a male and female standing along side the road just watching me drive by as if to say, “what took you so long, we’ve been waiting”.

They turned and ran into the tree line and faded from sight.  The urge to follow them was strong.  Deer reminds us of our wild spirit.  They show us the gracefulness and harmony that can be achieved when we are in balance with nature.  For those who feel caught up in society and the urban jungle the deer can bring about a feeling of connectedness that has been lost by our detachment from the natural world. 

The alluring quality I felt when I saw the deer speaks to one of its most important attributes, the pull toward new adventure.  Deer can help us to “let go” of what is holding us back from the next cycle and adventure in our lives.  When you find yourself becoming stagnant and needing adventure in your life call on the deer and be prepared for the thrill of the hunt to take you over. 

Deer represents an innocence and peace that many in today’s world are longing for.  Buddha is often pictured with a deer showing again the innocent quality of this totem.  If you ever have the opportunity to observe a newborn fawn the innocence of deer energy becomes very apparent. 

The coloring of the deer is quite significant as it is adapted to completely conceal the deer’s presence in the woods.  This ability to “disappear” is quite a handy trick to have at one’s disposal. 

The most striking quality of a deer is its antlers.  Antlers form behind the eyes, growing as solid bone directly from the skull.  Physically they represent protection.  Metaphysically they represent spiritual antennae that help us to connect to the spiritual realms and energies.  The positioning behind the eyes would suggest development of clairvoyance and visions.  This psychic sight is an amazing gift that deer can bring into your life. 

When we find ourselves feeling jaded or stuck in life and need to find a new direction we can call on deer to help.  We can connect with this amazing totem and it’s medicine to give us innocence and grace, vision and strength and most of all, call us to a new adventure that will lead to our happiness and success.  

 

Butterfly

Floating softly on the breeze, butterfly brings change and transformation and the magick of color into our lives.  Ya ya, I know.  Winter is upon us and I’m talking about butterflies.  It may seem odd to many, but to me the butterfly is a perfect totem to call upon at this time of year.  Many people suffer from seasonal depression at this time of year.  The holidays are upon us…the skies are more grey and less sunny…one year ends as another begins…and let’s not forget family.  All of this can add up to a lot of emotional “stuff” to deal with.  The bright colors and seemingly carefree nature of the butterfly can help give us that little lift we need to get through this time in the joyous manner that we should.

All butterflies start as a caterpillar, and then enter a cocoon to finally emerge as a strikingly beautiful creature ready to take flight.  This ability to transform is a powerful gift of this totem and should be used anytime you face significant change in your life.  It reminds us that all things in life move in cycles and the importance of honoring all of the identities and stages of our lives. 

When the caterpillar enters into its transformative stage it forms a cocoon around it.  By observing this we can see the need for times of rest and feeling protected and secure during major changes in life.  It also shows us the value of making changes on our own without having to make a public fanfare about it.  Some of the greatest personal changes we can have are ones we do not talk about but simply undertake on our own.

Some butterflies migrate over huge distances.  Monarchs are most known for this.  The idea of returning “home” is essential for those with this totem and many will find that they have a safe place that they must return to from time to time to recharge themselves and prepare for the next step in life. 

The life stages and ideas of migration both speak to the concept of timing.  Being able it recognize when it is time to move on and when it is time to act or remain at rest is essential to really achieve our greatest goals and ambitions.  Butterfly can assist us in attuning ourselves to this divine timing.

Anyone wishing to work with color therapy or to enhance his or her own aura should call on butterfly medicine.  The diversity of colors and patterns can bring healing to any aspect of our lives.  When butterfly shows up in your life pay attention to the colors.  I strongly recommend reading up on the colors and their meanings when such a totem arrives. 

The next time you see yourself needing to deal with change in your life take a minute and ask the butterfly to help you.  Close your eyes and think of yourself entering into your cocoon of safety and personal growth, allow yourself the grace of divine timing in your situation and then see yourself emerging in vibrant colors ready to spread your wings and let spirits gentle breeze carry you to your next expression in life.  


Turkey

Turkey represents the bounty of harvest and the goodness that comes to us from the Mother Earth.  They remind us that so long as we are fed and warm and can gather together in a feeling of love that we truly are blessed.  The turkey lives in perfect harmony with it surroundings, at one with the earth.  This is a powerful reminder for us to be thankful for what we have and to connect with and honor the Earth.  This is not just important during the holidays, but all through the year.  I have a friend who once told me that you couldn’t be depressed and thankful at the same time.  Choose thankful! 

Wild turkeys are large beautiful birds that travel in flocks.  For those with turkey as a totem it is important to pay close attention to who you allow into your life.  A flock is an interdependent entity where each member has to be able to rely on every other member of that group.  Turkey teaches us to work within such groups to achieve greater success.  For those with turkey as a totem you will find that “safety in numbers” is important to you. 

Although turkeys are often seen on the ground, another symbolic connection to the earth, they are capable of flight and can achieve speeds of up to 50mph for short periods.  This intense but short-lived energy is a helpful tactic for many in today’s fast paced society.  It teaches us to remember the importance of grounding and rest, even while working hard to achieve greater heights and accomplishments. 

Turkeys feed primarily on nuts and seeds, both symbols of knowledge.  Turkey medicine is one of continued learning and education.  This can be in the classroom, independent study or simply observation of life.  The part that matters is the everlasting quest for knowledge and understanding. 

Turkeys have been known to steal the cache of nuts stored by squirrels.  We should be reminded of the value of acting on opportunity.  I often hear people talking of “missing their chance” at something.  Turkey teaches us to act when opportunity shows itself.

One of the most amazing qualities of this totem is its adaptability.  Turkeys roost in a different place every night.  They wander through the countryside feeding and raising their young.  While they are fond of wooded areas, turkeys can be seen through out the countryside in many diverse terrains.  When turkey shows up in your life it is a time to examine what you are holding onto and what area of your life would benefit from the energy of freedom and change.  All of us find ourselves in situations that hold us down.  Fear and insecurity can keep us from embracing the changes we need.   We can call on the medicine of turkey to inspire us and give us the power to find personal freedom to create the changes we need for our happiness.  It is no wonder that the wild turkey was considered to be the symbol of this nation being beaten out only by the bald eagle.

Tiger
I found myself having my usual insomnia the other night and was flipping through the channels to find something to help me fade off to sleep.  I ran across a nature show about tigers and found myself drawn into the show and this powerful totem’s energy immediately.

Tigers are nocturnal hunters and those with tiger as a totem will find that much of their productive time is at night.  This can also help those who feel “out of synch” with the rest of the world to come into balance and acceptance of why that is their experience.  

Tigers are solitary hunters, which suggests a need for alone time.  They can travel incredible distances for the sake of the hunt.  This relentless pursuit of one’s goals is an amazing gift of tiger medicine.  Once their prey is caught they will often carry it long distances to hide it from other animals.  Through this, tiger teaches us that protecting an accomplishment is often as important as the accomplishment itself.  For those working toward goals that require secrecy tiger can be a very helpful totem. 

Tigers differ from other big cats in that they are excellent swimmers.  Water is associated with our emotions and intuition.  If tiger shows up in your life it is a time to get more deeply in touch with your feelings and intuition.  While they are great swimmers, tiger is obviously a land animal, which brings a grounded quality to the intuition.  This balance between earth and water allows for greater practical understanding of the intuitive messages we receive.  

I think the most astounding thing about tigers is how tender and gentle these powerful animals can be with their young.  A mother tiger will instinctively carry her young to a new hiding place if she feels they are threatened in any way.  This sense of when to move on is quite valuable and should be heeded when tiger energy is at work.  When the mother moves the young she picks them up in her powerful jaws.  Such gentleness and caring coming from jaws that otherwise kill is a lesson on when to be aggressive with our speech and when to take the path of tact and diplomacy. 

The pattern of orange and black on a tiger reflects the relationship between our sun and moon signs.  Those with tiger medicine will find this relationship of signs in their natal chart particularly revealing and beneficial when it is brought into balance.  Just like the coat of the great cat, such understanding can help us to blend in to the jungle of life. 

This to me was another fine example of how animal medicine works.  It was highly unlikely that a real life tiger was going to come walking into my life but the energy of this amazing totem still managed to trigger my intuition and get my attention and just like the tiger, I found what I was looking for in the quiet darkness of night.

 

 

Spider
I was sitting in my reading room meditating on which animal totem I should write about this week.  Image after image flowed through my mind but nothing stuck.  I was beginning to get frustrated.  I asked my guides for help and got the distinct impression that I was missing the obvious.  I decided to give up for the moment and slowly opened my eyes.  There, right in front of me, was a tiny spider slowly making his way down on a single strand of webbing.  He was there directly in front of me, ever so slowly descending to my eye level.  I started laughing at the symbology of a totem having to lower itself for me to “get it”.

Spiders are found the world over, in all climates and many various forms.  Such diversity and adaptability are strong energies available to those working with spider medicine.

All spiders share several things in common, the most obvious being their physical appearance.  Spiders have eight legs, which makes them look like a star.  In traditional symbology the eight-pointed star represents enlightenment and understanding.

While spider may not be the most beautiful totem in many people’s eyes, it is impossible to ignore the amazing beauty of a web glistening with dew on a summer’s morning.  Such beauty coming from an “ugly” source shows us the great things that can be accomplished even from the most humble standpoint.

Spiders also share the quality of having multiple eyes.  Being able to see situations from many perspectives is a gift of this amazing totem.

A spider’s web is simply a miracle of nature.  It is used as a home, form of transportation and a means of catching prey.  Spider spins this web in a spiral fashion reminding us of the constant cycles of the universe.  The web is stronger than steel and emanates directly from the spider itself.  For those wishing to accomplish difficult tasks that require great strength in the thing being created spider medicine can be extremely beneficial.

Many spiders have the ability to sit motionless for hours or even days at a time waiting for their prey to stumble into their web.  This teaches us the value of laying the foundations of that which we create even if it requires us to be patient before seeing the actual goal accomplished.

Spider sits waiting for the subtle vibrations of it’s prey being caught in the web.  For those with spider medicine a heightened sense of their surroundings can be expected, as well as, the psychic sense of empathy.  Once the prey is sensed spider springs into action, quickly seizing the prey and wrapping it up in the webbing.  In other words, it takes the next step in providing for its needs.  Spider medicine shows us how to build on our creation and take it to the next phase to provide for our needs and desires.   It is important to note here that “prey” can represent any goal that the individual is attempting to accomplish.

All spiders are venomous but most will not bite anything larger than it’s typical prey unless it is provoked.  This is an amazing understanding of what it is capable of and what it is not.  Spider has the ability to “size up” the opposition and react in an appropriate manner.  Sometimes it is better to bite and sometimes it is better to know when your bite will do no good.  When spider is provoked it doesn’t hesitate to defend itself by leaving the offender with a stinging bite as a reminder of its boundaries and comfort zone.

Think about what you want to create in your life.  Spin your web of creation and watch as the universe sends just what you need into it.  My little friend who inspired this piece is now climbing back up his thread of web.  I guess I finally got the message.

Hawk
When I began my Shamanic path the Medicine Woman who taught me named me ShadowHawk.  She told me that the hawk was the messenger of Spirit and that I was to serve that purpose for people in my life’s work.  Ever since that time I have been fascinated with hawk.

There are many different types of hawks but the most plentiful is the red tailed hawk.  The coloring of the tail represents raw life force energy.  It is a color of passion.  This can represent sexual energy but also the joy and fulfillment that comes from following your hearts desire.

Hawk’s keen eyesight brings with it the gift of “the sight” or psychic vision.  When hawk arrives in your life it is a time to pay attention to your intuition and the messages that Spirit is sending you.  Hawk can help you to learn to trust your inner vision and understand the messages that you are receiving.   It can often be a time of great change in one’s life when they can see the bigger picture of their life and purpose

Hawks mate for life and both the male and female share the responsibility of raising the young.  They are very defensive of their chicks and nest.   Hawk can help us to understand our role in relationships and can help lead us to true love and connection in our lives.  They teach us to work together with others toward common goals.

Hawks most often inhabit the same area for their entire life.  This suggests the need to find our place in the world.  The place that provides us with all that we need for our happiness and success.  It also suggests the permanence of hawk’s medicine.  When this totem appears in your life it will remain a part of you for all time.

Hawks soar gracefully, often staying airborne for hours at a time with very little effort on their part.  They seem to gently float in slow arching circles.  This effortless spiral dance shows us the essence of Spirit itself.  The planets spiral around the sun.  The seasons run in a never-ending circle.  All things repeat the spiral dance of birth, life, death and rebirth.  Hawk teaches us to flow gracefully through these cycles, letting the winds of Spirit carry us to our next experience

As a master of the air, hawk shows us the value of perception.  Through hawk medicine we can achieve a higher understanding of our lives and ourselves.  We can “rise above” the problems and obstacles that face us.  

Hawk is a powerful hunter with razor sharp talons and beak.  These can be powerful tools to help you accomplish your goals but we must remain cautious so that we don’t make our words too sharp and hurtful to others.  When used properly hawk medicine can help you to grab the opportunities that come into your life



opossum
Last week I told you all about my new dog, Polar Bear.  Well, he has continued to bring with him a greater experience in animal medicine than I ever imagined when we rescued him from the shelter.  I had noticed that he was becoming fond of the garage.  It is detached from the house and whenever I let him out in the back yard he bolts for the open door of the garage and doesn’t come out for some time.  He’s not much of a barker unless there is a reason so the other day when he came back out of the garage booming out bark after bark I rushed outside to see what was going on.  Polar Bear stood there staring up at the roof of the garage, planted still as stone.  He was fixed on something, although I couldn’t see what it was at all.  It was broad daylight and for all I could tell the dog had gone nuts and was staring and barking at a lot of nothing.  For ten minutes I stood there watching Bear watching nothing.  I studied the rooftop and the tree nearby, nothing.  It was only when I finally called Bear to me and he walked away from the garage that I saw a slight movement.  There, right where I had been looking the whole time was an opossum.  She was sitting on the roof right where the dog had been focused and now that she had revealed herself it was quite evident that this was a mother who had set up housekeeping in the garage.  She had blended into the rooftop perfectly.  I knew at once that another powerful totem had allowed me a glimpse of her medicine.

The opossum is known for “playing dead”.  This teaches us the value of appearances.  Often times in life we find ourselves needing to blend in or even disappear into a crowd or group.  Opossum teaches us to do this.   She shows us the art of “non reaction”.  Too often we react to our situations instead of choosing our actions.  Opossum teaches us to stop and regroup our thoughts before deciding on how to respond to a situation.  She helps us to use appearances to further our goals and to understand the appearances that others show to us. 

When the opossum plays dead it actually slows its metabolism and heartbeat to the point it appears dead to other animals.  This ability to control the body and shift states of consciousness is particularly helpful to those working with trance states and meditation. 

The ability to manipulate metabolism can be helpful in those dealing with weight issues. 

Opossum is the only North American marsupial.  They carry their young in a pouch and are caring devoted mothers.  This shows us the value in nurturing and helping in secret, instead of for show and glory.  The pouch also reminds us to keep a few things handy in our bag of tricks for dealing with life.  We all need tools to help us deal with what life throws at us.

Opossums are nocturnal which makes them a great totem for working through fears and worries over the unknown and unseen.  They can help us to find our way through the darkness of our own minds and emotions.

So, next time you find yourself wanting to disappear, call on the medicine of the opossum and sit back and laugh at everyone while they try to figure out what the dog is barking at. 



Polar Bear
I recently celebrated a birthday and decided that I was going to get myself a puppy.  I had no idea that what I was really doing was invoking another powerful totem animal into my life.  I have a tendency to rescue animals.  I already have a shepherd/rottweiler mix, three cats and a blue and gold macaw that are rescues.  So, after going on at great length as to how I wanted a purebred white German shepherd, I naturally found myself at the shelter.

I looked through the puppies, holding the image of this white dog in my mind the whole time.  After a lengthy review of all puppies I wasn’t satisfied that I’d found the right one.  That is when they took us to the wing of “older” dogs.  They brought out a Great Pyrenees that I fell in love with instantly.  He was indeed a white dog, but instead of a little puppy he stands three feet tall at the shoulder and weighs over a hundred pounds and isn’t done growing!  He is powerful and gentle all at once.  He’s very intelligent and loving. His eyes have a depth of understanding that is nothing less than spiritual.  I took him home and realized I hadn’t even asked if he had a name.  I started going through the papers on him and right there in bold letters was his name, Polar Bear.  It hit me instantly that I had a new totem animal to work with.   How awesome is spirit to be able to give me the totem of a polar bear living in the Midwest.  I started studying my resources about totems and meditated on the polar bear.  As always, I was amazed at how perfectly it fit personality and my life.

The Eskimo tribes considered polar bear to be a Shaman or living link between this world and the spirit world.  The polar bear was believed to have great supernatural powers and could show the way to the spirit world.  It is a powerful totem for those working in spiritual endeavors, especially communication with “the other side”, shamanic journey work and astral projection. 

The polar bear is a solitary hunter and is comfortable on land or in the water, moving easily between the two.  This suggests the ability to transition from one situation to another with ease while remaining self reliant in the process.

Polar bears have no natural enemies other than man.  They are fearless and should be called on when courage or confidence is needed.  They are relentless in their pursuit of prey and often cover long distances in their hunting.  This intensity can help in dealing with lack of motivation or completing tasks.  It gives us the stamina and focus to reach our goals. 

Although they are known for their power and strength the polar bear is also quite gentle when it comes to its offspring.  They are attentive mothers and spend two-five years teaching their cubs.  When polar bear shows up it means a long period of learning and growing.  Even as adults, polar bears have been seen playing which suggests a balance between seriousness and play in our own lives. 

The polar bear often walks upright.  This shows it’s close relation to our own selves and tells us to stand proud and tall in our demeanor. 

Like other bears, polar bears hibernate.  During this process they slow down metabolism and bodily functions and enter into a deep state of sleep.  For those working with trance and meditation the polar bear can be an amazing totem. 

Recently the polar bear has become the unfortunate mascot of global warming and the polar ice caps melting.  They remind us how precious this earth is and that we are its keepers.  Polar bear understands the one thing that humanity seems to have forgotten.  The earth does not need us…. we need the earth.

I also looked up dog, but we’ll save that for another time.




The Dolphin

The Dolphin is one of the smartest animals on the planet and one of the most playful.  We are all used to seeing them perform in oceanic parks and similar shows but that performance is only achieved through training that builds on the innate desire to play and have fun that exists within the dolphin already.  When this totem comes into your life it is time to expand your horizons.  Think about the expansive oceans and all of the experiences that lie therein for our friend the dolphin.  With such complex brains they are able to experience the wonder of the underwater world in a way that few other creatures can.  Water often represent emotions, so working with dolphin medicine can help you to experience and understand your emotions in a new and deeper way. 

Dolphin also teaches us to embrace the duality of our nature.  The dolphin is a master of the water and yet it breathes air.  It lives completely in one element and is dependant upon another for it’s very survival.  Dolphin’s ability to draw on such differing elements teaches us to be flexible and adaptable.  It shows us the power that comes from exploring all aspects of ourselves and bringing those differing qualities into alignment and balance. 

Dolphins are extremely social creatures and often work together in groups to achieve common goals such as hunting.  This totem can help you in projects involving others, social group interaction or any situation where a common interest is the focus.  Next time you feel awkward in a group setting call on the dolphin and don’t be surprised when you are suddenly the witty and vocal center of attention.

Dolphins are masters of communication with a complex language of their own.  Dolphin medicine carries with it the gifts of clairaudience and clairvoyance.  Dolphins rely on a type of sonar and through this they are able to use sound waves to create mental pictures.  When dolphin comes into your life it is a time to expand your perceptions of yourself and the world around you.  Look at the world as your ocean, full of opportunity and adventure and most of all, pursue all of this with the help of others along the way and by all means, don’t forget to play a bit on your journey. 


the owl

  Owls are a well-accepted symbols of wisdom but where did this wisdom come from?  The difference between knowledge and wisdom is experience.  Our experiences lie in our past.  The Owl has the ability to turn its head completely around to face the opposite direction, which suggests the ability to look at one’s past while maintaining a forward stance.  Too often we “step back into our past”.  Owl teaches us that instead of doing that we can use our past as a point of perspective to help in forming our future.  By keeping a forward moving energy and drawing on the experiences of your past you are able to empower yourself with Owl Medicine and true wisdom. 

Owls are known for “hooting” and yet they are silent hunters.  This combination helps us to understand the power of speech and the power of silence.  When you find yourself trying to figure out whether to broadcast your intentions or to move stealthily toward your goals call upon the Owl to give you guidance as to which approach will serve you best.  If you have ever watched a situation where someone worked diligently at a goal and communicated readily to everyone what their intentions were only to have someone, seemingly out of nowhere swoop in silently and claim the prize you have witnessed Owl energy at work. 

One of the most misunderstood aspects of this powerful Totem is that many cultures and traditions consider Owl an omen of death.  While it is possible for Owl to bring this message, it is usually more an energy of ending, rather than physical passing.  When Owl shows up in your life unexpectedly it is a sign that some cycle is coming to an end.  It is time for an old identity or situation to fade away to make room for the new.

Owls are the masters of the night.  Many fears are born out of darkness and Owl can help us to overcome such limited understanding.  Owl finds everything it requires for life in that darkness by becoming one with it and taking an empowered stance.  Whatever fears or self-limitations you have can be eased and overcome through the help of Owl Medicine. 

Remember that Animal Medicine can come into our lives through the actual living animal or symbolically.  The important part is to live with awareness that these Spirits are around us wanting to help and guide us.  By simply aligning yourself with this way of thinking and considering what the purpose of the animal in your life might be you have taken a huge step toward working with the energy and power of the animals. 

 

 the wolf

  Wolf Medicine teaches us to find our place in the "pack", this is an opportunity to see how we relate to others.  A wolf pack is an amazing study in social behavior.  Every single wolf, from the alpha male to the omega of the pack serves a purpose.  It is by communicating verbally and more subtley through body language and intuition that each wolf knows the role they play in the packs success.  If each wolf fulfills their part, the pack thrives.  If not, the pack fails.  This way of thinking teaches us that everyone has purpose and value.  Each individual, no matter what the connection, has a part to play in any group dynamic.  no wolf envies any other member of the pack but instead embraces the role they play.  Even in times of conflict or difficulty between members of the pack there is a respect and understanding that each member has value and should not be cast aside too readily.  This kind of valuing of every individual is another of wolf's great teaching we can certainly learn from.

 
The wolf is also an incredible tracker.  Wolf medicine teaches us to tune in to our senses and allow them to elevate to the level of intuition.  By doing so we are able to find the path that leads to our greatest good.  We can "sniff out" our own truths and thereby empower ourselves to reach our goals and desires.   The wolf can cover great distances while staying focussed on the end destination.  They use their senses and intuition to lead them, even when they can't see the goal ahead of them.   When we can truly believe that we will reach our goal even without seeing how then we have stepped into faith and created opportunity for that which we desire to manifest into our lives.

 

We each have specific animal totems that travel with us, but the medicine of every animal is available to each of us if we will align ourself with it's energy.  Spend some time reading about wolves.  Watch a nature program about them.  Meditate or in some other way try to connect with this energy.  Think about how you relate to others this week and ask yourself if you have embraced your identity and role within your various relationships.  Open to your sense and faith to achieve your goals.  Let your spirit free to howl at the moon.  You may be surprised at who or what howls back, calling you to your bliss.

 

To find out more about animal medicine and your personal animal totems visit the The Shaman for a reading today.