Animal Totems / Spirit Animals & GuidesIn My Opinion
An ongoing & incomplete study!
Part 1.
It is my belief that a Totem usually refers to an animal much like that of a Spirit Guide however I believe that Spirit Guides can also be animal, human, deity, spirit, angels, fairy or fairy like creature, or some other unexplained guide. Where as a Totem (to me) generally specifically means animal.
Animal Totems / Spirit Animals are more commonly associated with Shamans of old (and new). But they also play a large role in our lives, even when we don't realise it!! It is said that they help define and guide who we are in our paths, our journeys and even in ourselves. They aid towards defining us as people and who are as well as capturing our imaginations. And also the way we associate with certain animals and/or animal traits.
Shamans believe that these animals guide us in our past, current and next lives as they are a part of our soul and part of the energy that is inside of us. As well as guiding they can also help us understand ourselves and who/what we were in our pasts not just in this life but the ones before, be it human, animal or other living energy. Each person has one spirit animal but it is not unheard of for a person to have two or more.
Native American Ancestors created large totems made from huge great trees and they would carve the heads of animals such as eagle, lion and bear. Very strong symbols these would represent strength of kinship, honour and pride. Today we still see these monuments of powerful symbolism and they are still used in religion and décor world wide today.
Typically these Animal guides are presented to us through dream or more commonly through meditation. Some deep meditation searches may or may not require substance uses which enhance trance divination states to aid in the meditation process and bridge that connection. Some are as simple as a repetitive symbolism throughout one's life / lives; for example every time something good happens you see a Raven.. chances are you have a connection to Ravens and this is something you should investigate. And it doesn't of course have to be a real live animal photographs, paintings, carvings or other imagery of animals can be just as strong and powerful connections. Other alternatives are said to be drawing a card from a Shamanic Medicine Card Deck (similar to that of Tarot) or other animal based cards. Or you may just feel a connection to certain animal(s). Dreams are often large carriers of animal and their messages.
Here are a few sites which may give you more information about your animal or the meaning and symbolism of your animal should you be luck enough to already know your animal(s).
Imogen
An ongoing & incomplete study!
