Do you have a spirit animal? Some people call them power animals or animal totems, but they are all in reference to the same spiritual guide and speak to a longing for understanding yourself.
Our relationship with animals dates back thousands of years and is one of the most natural relationships a human can experience. In fact, an anthropologist named Robert Losey has studied the historic relationship between humans and dogs and has reported that when a dog and human gaze into each other’s eyes they both release oxytocin which is tied to bonding. He is interested in the relationships between people and dogs in the past and has unearthed historic remains that show the deep respect and adoration of dogs by burying them with care alongside humans wearing ornamental features like necklaces. Our experience with dogs and other animals is a historic one that paints a picture of a tribal connection and love.
In looking outward to nature and loved ones to help us look within, our storied history with animals make it a natural link to connect with animals for guidance as well. As diverse in personality and ability as animals are, they are able to represent so much to us with their presence.
If you don’t have a spirit animal the first thing to recognize is that they choose you. You can look to animals for inspiration, but depending on what you currently need spirit animals choose to reveal themselves if you open yourself up to seeing them. Let your free formed intuition guide you within daydreams, meditation, a forest bath, or whatever process helps you clarify your space and opens you up to receive their message. Do you need to close your eyes, ensure a quiet and still space, start walking, or stop moving? What do you need to clear out in order to open up?
Your spirit animal may be more literal and choose to come to you in their physical form. Dogs may be sniffing you on your walk around the neighborhood, you could see a cat underneath your car, or maybe a ladybug lands on your shoulder. Today I was thinking about writing this blog post and happened upon what seemed like a monarch butterfly migration! Dozens of clumsy, orange butterflies flew over my home and were heading west towards the ocean. I’ve lived in the same home for 3 years and the same town for 10 years and have never seen that before.
Or your animal may be more subtle. Maybe you hear a phrase like “see you later alligator” for the first time in years, you finally notice that your stationery has a hidden bear in the margin, or you keep overhearing coworkers share stories about cows. Just be open to your animal presenting itself to you in a number of ways.
If you live by a zoo, an experiential option could be to take the day to sit with the animals and listen to your gut. Is there a certain animal you feel connected to today? Are you really excited to see a certain habitat? Or how about you lose the map and wander around and let the universe guide you.
Another thing to consider is that like any guide, an animal and what they represent may be relevant to a certain phase of your life. Maybe you’re starting a new project or a side hustle and need the wisdom of the cat to give you reassurance, and to believe in the magical ways the universe works in guiding you to success. Or maybe you want to take a leadership role in the community and could use the spirit of the bear for standing your ground and supporting others around you. Depending on what you are doing, your spirit animal may evolve.
I feel like it’s important to follow your curiosity and see where it brings you.
Enjoy your journey.
Love and light, Cathy
