Cyc4
By Henrik Lefebvre · · 21 min read
Cycle Of Power
Animal Totems
Animals on this page Q-S
Rabbit, Raccoon, Raven, Rhinoceros, Salamander, Seal, Shark, Snake, Snow Leopard, Snowy Owl, Spider, Squirrel, Swan,
Animals A-C
Animals D-G
Animals H-L
Animals M-P
Animals T-Z
The Rabbit
There are two dozen species of Cottontails in the United States, all with similar characteristics. Rabbits are vegetarians eating the inner bark of saplings and shrubs as well as leaves and fruit. They provide a perfect illustration of Nature’s balance. Their rapid rate of reproduction is countered by the fact that almost every predatory animal eats them. Cottontail rabbits are quite timid, never venturing too far from the safety of their warrens. Rabbit teaches us through its timidity, to be gentle with ourselves in all situations.
The rabbit is often associated with fear because of the nervous energy it expends. They move suddenly and unpredictably leaping and hopping to great lengths. Since its primary movement is by hops and leaps, individuals with this totem will see movement occur in their life in varying degrees of leaps and hops rather than in a steady pattern. Learning the art of balanced movement is an important lesson for those with this medicine.
Rabbits are most visible during the in-between times of dawn and dusk. The in-between time has long been associated with the faerie realm, where magic and mystery lies. The rabbit knows of these mysteries and shows us how to use its magic. All that is required from us is a leap of faith into the unknown.
Rabbits are very sensitive and have keen observation skills. Their strong reflexes help them dash to safety quickly protecting them from danger. They have a knack for avoiding being seen and can freeze holding perfectly still. They are clever at doubling back making quick and rapid turns. Learning to shift from freezing too great speed is something all with this totem should learn. It will enable you to take advantage of opportunities that may only present themselves for brief moments.
Rabbits are guides into the shadow world, where all of our personal fears lie. When the rabbit appears it is time to examine those deep reflexive fears that hold you back from growing. Do you keep dashing for the safety of your old patterns every time something new or challenging presents itself? If so the rabbit asks you to face your fears with compassion for yourself. Accept that it is part of human nature to feel fear at times, but also believe that our fears need not paralyze our growth and movement.
The Raccoon
Raccoons are primarily nocturnal. They travel in small groups of one or two families foraging for fruits, vegetables, and small animals. They are excellent swimmers although they feel more at home in trees. Raccoons are often seen sloshing their hands and food in water before eating. Symbolically hands represent the art of holding or receiving. If raccoon appears to you it might be asking you to let go of a situation, person or habit that doesn’t honor who you truly are. It could also be telling you to reach out and receive the gifts being offered to you by Great Spirit.
Raccoons are often found sitting high in trees. From this vantage point they can observe everything around them and see danger long before it arrives. In humans this ability would be linked to clairvoyant tendencies.
The raccoon is extremely curious and leaves no stone unturned. Curiosity has its advantages and its disadvantages. Following ones curiosity can open doorways into new and exciting territory, although curiosity applied without caution can lead to trouble. Those with this medicine should remember to initiate discernment into in all of their activities in order to receive the positive attributes of this totem.
These masked bandits are persistent robbers and do not tire easily. They are often spotted around camp grounds foraging for food and can teach those with this totem how to stay focused and achieve their goals.
Raccoons have an air of indifference around them when caught in the act of a robbery although if provoked they can become ferocious. Strong and muscular the raccoon can hold its ground in most all situations. Raccoon medicine people are usually easygoing yet passionate individuals and need to remember to keep their emotional body balanced.
One of the most distinguishing features of the raccoon is its mask. Masks have long been tied to mysticism and magic. The raccoon offers the gift of shape shifting for those who hold this medicine. Concealed behind a mask a person can be whatever they want to be. They can take on several identities at once, play different roles simultaneously and cross into new dimensions. Raccoon medicine people are often found in professions relating to the theater, stage productions and acting.
The raccoon is a powerful ally and holds the secrets of transformation and renewal. When raccoon appears in a persons life it indicates a time of change, rebirth and self discovery.
The Raven
Ravens have a long history of myth and lore associated with them. In some native tribes they are known as the “keeper of secrets.” They hold the teachings of mysticism and magic. Ravens are linked to the void, where universal secrets are stored. Their inky black color is the color associated with darkness. The darkness is a place where unconscious fears live. Raven, a master magician, embodies the energy of transformation and shows us how to eliminate our inner demons.
Ravens are the largest songbirds in North America. They are extremely intelligent and are clever mimics. They incorporate and mimic calls of other species and can teach us how to understand the language of animals. They have also been known to learn some human words.
The raven knows the mystery of life. They have an intimate association with death and rebirth. Because raven would feed on the corpses of the dead hanging on the gallons, early European settlers feared this bird and considered it to be an ill omen. In truth, however, raven should be respected not feared.
There are many stories in native cultures about this illusive black bird. Shamans know the power of an unexpected piercing sound in altering consciousness. Ravens exercise this power, emitting a variety of sounds and can aid us in shifting our consciousness into various dimensional realms. This is one reason why the raven is known as a shape shifter with strong psychic abilities. Anyone with raven as a totem can expect continual changes and spiritual awakenings throughout their life.
Raven picks its students according to their accumulated wisdom. It flies into a persons life carrying the energy of magic and healing. If it decides to settle in and take up residence, it will stay as long as necessary to aid you in transmuting your karma then return you to the light. It will push, prod, and lead you into the discovery of your multidimensional self and reunite you with the secrets of the multidimensional universe. Those with this totem should remember to meet raven, not with fear, but rather with an appreciation for the teachings that it holds.
The Rhinoceros
The rhinoceros is a survivor of the age of giant mammals and are basically solitary creatures. They are descendants of ancient times and bring with them the energy of comfort in ones own solitude. They teach us how to be comfortable within ourselves. The term “know thyself” is appropriate here. Sacred space and quiet time are essential for those with this totem.
One of the most significant characteristics of the Rhino is its horn. Horns have always been associated with higher sensitivity and because the Rhinos horn is on its nose, not on its head like other animals, it symbolically signifies higher discrimination capabilities, spiritual idealism and the ability to apply higher wisdom.
Spiritual idealism can be a blessing or a curse depending on how it is applied in ones life. If a persons ideals are so high that the achievement of that ideal is unreachable, depression can set in. Those with this medicine should remember to stay grounded in their pursuit of spiritual growth by taking things one step at a time to eventually reach their desired goals. Patience and perseverance are the keynotes here.
Rhinoceros have poor eyesight and depend upon its keen hearing and sense of smell for survival. Since their eyesight is poor their hearing and smelling capabilities are often the governing factors that guide them through life. Sound therapies as well as aromatherapy can be beneficial for those with this totem.
The Rhino reminds us to look carefully beneath the surface of any situation encountered. What you see may not always be what it appears to be. It is important to use discrimination and discernment in every choice you make in order to reap the true advantages of what this medicine holds.
The Rhinoceros holds the key that unlocks ancient wisdom stored within you and can show you how to draw upon your innate abilities and apply those attributes in your present life. When you call upon the Rhinoceros you will be given the opportunity to discover your true self.
The Salamander
Salamanders most commonly occur in freshwater and damp woodlands, principally in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. They are generally short bodied, four legged, and moist skinned animals with bold patterns and bright colors. Patterns and colors have different meanings to different people. Examining the patterns and colors of the salamander can help us discover the intricate patterns that govern our lives. Unwanted emotional patterns can be restructured or eliminated by the study of sacred geometry and meridian alignments.
Like other amphibians the salamander absorbs water through their skin and needs a moist habitat in which to live. Those with this medicine need to be around water for their overall health and well being. Breeding often occurs in the water although certain members of this family breed on land.
The word amphibian comes from two words—“amphi” = “double” and “bios” = life. Amphibians divide their life between land and water. From a symbolic aspect, this can reflect much about what has often been taught in lore about its power. Salamanders are often regarded as the keeper of dreams. Their ability to live in water and on land can reflect that lucid dreaming is going to be stimulated.
The salamander hears and responds to low frequency tones rather then high pitched ones. These tones are primal in nature and can help us gain entry into the underworld. To strengthen ones sensitivity to such sounds playing the didgeridoo as well as drumming is helpful.
Typical salamanders undergo a larval stage that can last for a period of a few days to several years. The development of a child with salamander medicine is usually slower than other children their age. Specific periods of major transitions are common and easily pinpointed. Those with this medicine will find themselves continually learning, growing and developing their body, mind and spirit throughout the early part of their life. In their adult years knowledge gained as a child will surface.
Salamander medicine is a subtle teacher, from its patterns and colors, to its connection with the elements. Those with this totem will often find themselves living a double life. Their thoughts and actions can seem odd and unusual which gives them the power to assist others in shape shifting their reality.
The Seal
Seals are at home in the water but give birth on land. During the mating season the males can engage in ferocious battles one minute and be playful and amusing the next. Seals have the agility to move from anger to complete calm. Being excellent swimmers they know how to flow with the ever changing currents. If seal pops its head into your life you are being asked to review the ebb and flow of your thoughts and emotions and maintain a point of balance.
Water is a creative element and represents the feminine imagination and intuition. When a seal appears in your life it is a signal to pay close attention to your imagination and insight both in the dreamtime and in the waking state. Much of what your imagining may have, and usually does, a strong basis in reality no matter how far fetched it appears.
Seals do not have external ears, just small openings. This represents the inner voice and can teach those with this totem how to listen to their inner knowing and act accordingly by honoring their creative, imaginative powers.
Seals swim above and beneath the water enabling them to experience both the inner and outer worlds. They can teach those with this totem how to flow, how to hear, and how to discover the deeper mysteries of their true nature. There are no limits to the creative energies stimulated by this medicine. The seal is the keeper of secrets and can show us what is hidden deep within ourselves. They show us how to balance our inner imagination with our outer realities allowing us to merge into the flow of life.
The Shark
Sharks are viewed stereotypically as dangerous. Singly, and when they are not hungry, sharks tend to be quite peaceful. They can be trained to do simple tasks such as distinguishing certain objects from others in the water, and the ringing of a bell for a meal when in captivity. In large groups however, they can become unpredictable and may frenzy. In order to remain calm and centered shark medicine people require time to themselves. If they do not have time alone they can become irritable, anxious and aggressive in their behavior.
Sharks have incredibly sensitive noses that can smell one drop of blood in 50 million times as much water. They can feel the pressure waves made by a struggling fish and are sensitive to electromagnetic currents. They teach those with this totem how to develop and refine their own sensory abilities. The study of aromatherapy would benefit those with this medicine.
The shark has no swim bladder and must swim perpetually to keep from sinking to the bottom. Water has always been associated with emotional transformation. By observing the sharks swimming patterns we learn how to rise out of our emotional discord efficiently.
Sharks have been known to inspire great terror because they have the power of the predator, fearless and unpredictable. The shark offers the power of protection to those who resonate to it. When there is something in your life that you need to frighten away call upon the shark to help you. In the course of our learning we can attract events and people that are disharmonious. Working with shark medicine gives you the power and confidence to drive off negative elements or eliminate them completely.
The Snake
In many cultures the snake has been a symbol of life and sexuality for thousands of years. A snake rising up through the spine represents the kundalini or life force. The way snake sheds its skin when growing is a metaphor for how we shed old ways and habits as we grow into higher spiritual energy, symbolizing the death and rebirth process.
Before the snake begins to shed its skin, its eyes will cloud over giving it a trance like appearance. Mystics and shamans see this as the snakes ability to move between the realms of the living and the dead, crossing over from life to death and then back to life again. As the skin begins to shed, the eyes begin to clear as if to see the world anew.
Snakes have a keen sense of smell. They smell with their tongue, which is why it flicks in and out so much. The sense of smell is linked to higher forms of discrimination and spiritual idealism. Individuals with snake totem will find themselves extremely sensitive to smells and fragrances. Aromatherapy could be beneficial to explore.
The hypnotic quality associated with snake is its unblinking stare. Learning how to mesmerize and look into the hearts and souls of others is part of what snake teaches. When a person masters snake medicine acute sensitivity develops. Discerning abilities increase and can compliment professions relating to law and justice.
Snakes are symbols of change, healing, and spiritual initiation. They have speed and agility. When they enter into your world expect swift changes to sweep through your life. These changes signify a death of the old and a birth into untapped power, creativity and wisdom. Snake is a powerful totem to have. Only those with a high degree of spiritual training, be it past or present, will be awarded this totem. It is the guardian of sacred places and the keeper of hidden knowledge.
The Snow Leopard
Unlike other large cats the snow leopard is not aggressive towards man. It is a solitary animal, agile climber and an incredible leaper. The ability to rise above obstacles is strong in those with this totem. It is excellent at stalking prey remaining silent and inconspicuous until it attacks. Leopards frequently store the remains of its kill in branches of trees. It feeds upon animals it can overpower. Observant and cautious it does not take unnecessary chances when hunting. It honors its life and respects its limitations, an important teaching for those with this totem.
The calls of most large cats include a series of harsh coughs, throaty growls and deep purring sounds. Due to the under development of the fibro elastic tissue that forms part of the vocal apparatus the snow leopard cannot give a full deep roar. Those with this medicine will constantly be challenged to use their voice in an expressive creative way. The throat chakra often needs to be strengthened and developed. Any therapy that strengthens the vocal cords is beneficial.
The snow leopard is still hunted for its bones which are commonly used in many chinese medicines. When the teachings of the leopard are not fully developed in those with this totem, bone problems can occur.
The leopards long tail helps it balance as it moves over rugged and snowy terrain. It walks with each paw turned inward. This is very symbolic for those with this totem. If the leopard is your totem observe the way you walk. Toes pointed inward indicate past life lessons that have not been resolved. By stepping like the leopard and focusing the attention inward past life remembrances awaken in the conscious mind to be cleared, balanced and understood.
The snow leopard has binocular vision. It sees the past, the present and the future clearly. Its small ears can hear sounds associated with other dimensional realms leading us into kingdoms existent in galaxies known and unknown to man. Connecting with different dimensional realities awakens our inner sight and restores our union with life forms of all types.
The snow leopard is a powerful totem. It guides us back to the point where the explosion of life was created. By breaking through the time space continuum we realign with our true origins. The snow leopard dares you to take a giant leap into the world of universal consciousness. Are you willing to jump? The choice is yours.
The Snowy Owl
Owls are often referred to as the night eagle. A messenger from the darkness and a guide through all the mysteries that it contains.
Owls have many abilities that set them apart from other birds. They have a greater range of motion in their necks turning their heads rather than their eyes, which are stationary. Their wings, which are extremely soft and thick with fuzzy edges, allow them to fly almost silently so they can swoop down on unsuspecting prey. Their incredible night vision is matched by their almost otherworldly hearing abilities.
Owls can represent the death of old ideas, beliefs, and behavior patterns. They do not necessarily signify physical death, rather a rebirth into new and unknown realms of consciousness.
The medicine of owl is symbolically associated with clairvoyance, astral projection and magic, both black and white. They are the keepers of silent wisdom and healing power.
The snowy owl is larger then other owls and is at home both day and night. Unlike other owls, the snowy hunts in full sunlight or total darkness. It has the unique ability to open and close its iris to adjust to whatever light intensities (or lack of) there may be.
The snowy hunts predominately by sitting and waiting which conserves their energy. Continual observation prompts them into action only when an opportunity presents itself. They represent patience and appropriate timing. Its keen sight both in daylight and darkness gives it a prophetic quality.
When a snowy moves to a new area, it does not proclaim its presence. It enters quietly and goes about its business. When it walks its talons are withdrawn into its well padded feet that reflects its ability to be non threatening in spite of its power. It accomplishes its tasks with timing and skill, not through intimidation.
Those with the snowy as a totem are often confronted with the energy of power and will need to apply gentle strength and patient persistence in all they do. Clear sight and prophetic vision will awaken as a result. The white color of this bird reflects the purity of spirit and indicates a need for those with this medicine to honor all truths and all paths equally.
The Spider
The spider binds together the threads of life by spinning intricate webs. To the Native Americans the spider is the grandmother, a link to the past and the future. In India it was associated with Maya, the weaver of illusion. Spider has shown up in myth and lore throughout the world and it represents the teacher of balance between past and future, physical and spiritual, male and female. Spider teaches you that everything you now do is weaving what you will encounter in the future.
Spiders have a two section body giving them a figure eight kind of appearance. This in conjunction with its eight legs links it to all the mysticism associated with the geometric form of the figure eight. On its side, this is the symbol of infinity. The wheel of life flowing from one circle to the next.
The spider can awaken creative sensibilities. It reminds us that the past always subtly influences the present and the future. Sometimes the web of a spider takes a spiral shape that indicates the traditional form of creativity and development. When we see a spider in the middle of a web it is gently reminding us that we are the center of our own creation.
The spider is associated with the energy of creation and connects those with this medicine to their past and future. The spiral of the web, converging at a central point, should be meditated upon for a deeper understanding about ones true heritage.
Most spiders are actually very, very delicate. If you were holding a tarantula and dropped it, it would break and die. Spiders are a combination of gentleness and strength and they have learned to combine both for successful survival. Moving forward in all situations, with a gentle strength, is a skill that often needs to be learned for those with this totem.
The spider reminds us that the world is woven around us. We are the keepers and the writers of our own destiny. The geometric patterns and angles found within a spiders web have often been associated with the alphabet. Those with this totem would be excellent writers or artists.
If spider has appeared in your life it might be asking you to start weaving your dreams into reality. Use your creative abilities and break out of any web that makes you feel stuck or limited. Explore your past and discover how its influence is affecting you now. By following spiders footsteps you will learn how to become the co-creator of your immediate world.
The Squirrel
Squirrels are agile and quick. They are constantly preparing for the future by gathering nuts and seeds for later use. Although they are always prepared for what may come they have a tendency to forget where they store things. The forgetfulness of squirrel serves as a reminder to those with this medicine to slow down, pay attention and to stop running frantically in several directions at once.
Squirrels are sociable and communicative. They can be quite vocal both in work and play. Sometimes their continual chatter disturbs the silence, which creates an air of distraction and chaos. If you find yourself disturbed by their constant chatter the squirrel is telling you to speak clearly and effectively or to go within and be still, depending on the circumstances around your situation. Their gathering nature teaches those with this totem how to reserve energy and store things for future use. Honoring the future and readying yourself for change.
Squirrel embodies the quality of trust and is one of the few animals that will eat out of a person’s hand. This symbolizes a need to let down your defenses and learn to trust more.
Squirrel represents balance within the circle of gathering and giving out. If squirrel has scampered into your life pay attention to the wisdom it has to offer you. Preparedness and survival skills can be learned from this powerful totem.
The Swan
The swan is one of the most ancient totems and is a stately aquatic bird with a long graceful neck and beautiful white plumage. It feeds on soft water plants and its bill is so sensitive that it serves as a feeler underwater. Since water represents the emotional body of man the swan is associated with emotional sensitivity and feeling. Those with this totem need to learn how to be sensitive to the needs of self and not just the needs of others. Their emotions run deep and they have the capacity for great compassion.
Swan medicine people are caring individuals and although this is an admirable trait, they must exercise discernment in how much to give to others. An equal exchange of giving and receiving is one of the messages that swan carries.
The swan is known as a solar symbol because of its pure white color. This links them to the feminine energies of intuition and knowing. The black swan in Australia symbolizes the shadow side of light where all things pass through to be transformed.
One of the most distinctive features of the swan is its long and graceful neck. Since the neck is a bridge between the head (higher realms) and the body (lower realms) it helps a person realize their own true beauty. It teaches how to unfold the ability to bridge new realms and new powers. Awakening inner beauty and bringing it to the outer world is part of swan medicine.
The swan does not like heat and because of this it is often associated with the North gateway on the medicine wheel. Those with this totem will do their best work in colder or cooler climates.
Swans are devoted parents and live long lives reflecting the longevity that is possible when one awakens to the beauty and power that lies within. Sometimes referred to as the totem of a child the swan symbolizes dreams and aspirations of innocence, teaching those with this medicine to stay away from complexity and drama and to flow through the waterways of life with a loving heart and a gentle spirit.
Aliah Life Reading Orhai Healing A Future Tale Books&Tapes ProphecyEast Star Council ForumTechniquesArticlesAwards LinksTotems
Sayahda
P.O. Box 240302 Douglas, Alaska 99824
E-Mail Sayahda
Home
Web design by dsturm