Manataka American Indian Council

SPIRIT GUIDES

By Takatoka

ANIMAL TOTEMS

*Sorry not all totems are complete.

ANT

The ant is a very hard worker and conscientious in every detail of its work.  They live in huge communities where most tasks are delegated to  individuals who form work groups to carry out various activities of hunting, gathering, nesting and nursery, habitat construction, and protection.  The ant accepts its position within its community without question and is totally dedicated and loyal throughout its lifetime to the entire community.

ANT MEDICINE

• The ant people are wonderful builders and architects.  They can show us ways to build a reality based on our dreams.  

• Ants are determined and relentless in pursuit of their mission.  If the ant people come to visit you, it may be this quality they will teach.

• Solidarity and collaboration are keys to the success of the ant.  Every individual in the community does its duty to ensure the welfare of the whole colony, regardless of its personal safety or how long it must labor.  The ant spirit teaches us teamwork and loyalty.

• Ants are unselfish and sacrifice themselves to benefit the community.  Learning this valuable lesson of the ant can be the greatest of all gifts.

• Honor and respect are the hallmarks of the ant people. 

• Ants are tireless workers and hunters and teach the art of perseverance and patience in all that they do. Those with this spirit will find that many of their life lessons will involve the mastery of patience in some way.

• Ant medicine is subtle yet powerful. It teaches us how to release our egos and aligns us with the virtue of equality. Imagine what the world would be like if humanity held and applied the values that the ant expresses. The next time you step on, squash, injure or kill an ant intentionally, ask yourself why you are choosing to destroy the unconditional love that the ant shares so freely. Valuable insights about yourself and your history can be learned from this tiny little totem.

ARMADILLO

Brother armadillo has a passive style of defense and its medicine comes from its own body.   The 'digger' is called the "Little Armored One" because of thick bony plates and horns that covers its back.  It teaches protection and ways to move through dimensions.

ARMADILLO MEDICINE

• The armadillo rolls into a tight ball when threatened to cover its vulnerable underside.   Brother Armadillo's medicine is to teach ways to expose your inner-self and allow natural defenses to protect you.  People who are too paranoid, 'hard-shelled' or cover their feelings unnecessarily may need the spirit of the armadillo.  

• Armadillos are territorial and regularly patrol their boundaries to sniff out intruders and potential threats.   If the armadillo comes to visit you, it may be time to examine your boundaries, or artificial limits placed on your abilities, time, or space.  Is someone invading your space?

• Medicine from Brother Armadillo is strong and tenacious.  It teaches how to protect yourself from potential threats.

• The armadillo is slow but persistent in its daily tasks and ignores most non-threatening activities around it.   These traits will help one who follows the armadillo medicine to realize when they may be negligent of a persistent problem or avoiding issues.

• Brother Armadillo is a solitary dweller and does not have many friends.  Pay attention to the shell of our armored friend when he enters your meditations and find new ways to join with others in social activities.

• The armadillo digs for its food and makes burrows to sleep and have its young.   The digging aspect of its behavior indicates that you may need to work harder at finding the morsel of sustenance in your life to bring more spiritual awareness.

• Brother Armadillo understand the necessity of spiritual purification and loves water.  He is a good swimmer, floats very well and can swim under the surface for long periods.   Armadillo readily crosses any stream or river with ease.  These traits give people of the armadillo spirit an understanding of the power of spiritual cleansing and ability to move with fluid easy movement between dimensions.

BEAR

The Great Bear is found on every continent and comes in many sizes and colors.  The bear is revered on every continent, especially North America where the indigenous people who believe it was once human and Great Mystery lives in the spirit of bear.  Many American Indian tribes have bear clans and bear ceremonies. Bear people use herbs and other plants in healing.  Bear medicine is powerful and without peer among the animal people.  The bear is a guide to the river of meaning. 

BEAR MEDICINE

• Bear is spirit keeper of the West, the place of darkness, maturity and good harvest.  From this place, Grandfather Bear gives strength, introspection and knowledge. 

• Bears are active during the night and day.  This symbolizes its connection with solar energy, that of strength and power, and lunar energy, that of intuition. It enhances and teaches those with this totem how to develop both within themselves.

• Grandfather Bear is a solitary dweller and master of his domain.  This teaches us the importance of independent thinking and to seek peace in quite meditation to    

• Bears are sensitive to Mother Nature's cycles.  They sleep long hours in the winter living on fat stored in their bodies.  It teaches us how to go within and find the resources for survival and how to remain balanced amid change.  This medicine is a reminder of the great circle of life and rebirth, renewal and fresh beginnings. 

• The stars above in infinite meadows of heaven show us the Great Bear in the Sky, Ursa Major, as a sign of the greatness and infinity of bear wisdom.    

• Bear is the embodiment of strength and is fierce to a threat on its lair.  It is not wise to come between the mother bear and her cubs, teaching us ways to always protect those we love.   

• The bear holds the teachings of introspection. When it shows up in your life pay attention to how you think, act and interact. Use 

BEAVER

The beaver spirit is never defeated.  A gentle nature makes the beaver a friend to all creatures within its domain.  Beaver is an industrious neighbor with its unbelievable resolve and tenacity.  People who work with the beaver spirit will learn great lessons of life that will bring many blessings of strength, security and trust.

BEAVER MEDICINE

• The beaver is a tremendously complex, yet simple totem - Complex because their abilities and talents are many, and simple because most qualities of the beaver can be emulated by humans.  They are master architects and are among the few animals on earth, that alter their environment to meet their requirements.

• As an expert builder, beaver medicine strengthens the foundations of ones life and can help to build new ones.  Beaver can show us ways to be in harmony with our environment even as that environment changes.  

• The beaver is an excellent swimmer, able to hold its breath under water for 15 minutes or more.  As a water creature the beaver spirit is deep within where dreams past and knowledge flow in the subconscious warehouse of our mind.  This medicine can help us to call those inner waters to the surface where they can be used to build a better life.

• The beaver's fur is highly prized because it is both waterproof and soft, teaching us to repel afflictions of life in a good way.

• The beaver is practical, quick-witted and resourceful.   All these qualities are brought forward and understood while working with the beaver spirit.

• The beaver's large teeth are among its most prized possessions and they continue to grow until the moment of death.  This prominent feature of the beaver is a reminder that the tools we use to improve our lives must continually honed and sharpened.

• Beavers are very industrious, hard working, and tenacious in what ever project they undertake.  People who work with his spirit are reminded to work hard to achieve their goals and they will never be defeated by a lack of initiative.  If you feel overcome or overwhelmed by life's challenges, ask the beaver for help. 

• Beaver has a kind and gentle spirit.   We should all be like the beaver. 

BUFFALO

The great bison or buffalo of North America is a very powerful symbol to American Indians.  Though best suited to cooler climates, buffalos roamed virtually in entire continent.  The smaller woodlands buffalo and its bigger cousin, the plains buffalo were revered and honored in ceremony and every day life. To the plains Indian, our Buffalo Brother meant sacred life and the abundance of the Creator's blessing on Mother Earth.  

BUFFALO MEDICINE

• The buffalo is powerful medicine that is a symbol of sacrifice and service to the community.   The buffalo people agreed to give their lives so the American Indian could have food, shelter and clothing. 

• The buffalo is also a symbol of gratitude and honor as it is happy to accept its meager existence as it stands proud against the winds of adversity.

• The buffalo represents abundance of the Creator's bounty and respect for all creation knowing that all things are sacred.

• The buffalo represents a manifestation of the divine aspects of our being.

• Because of its size, speed and sharp horns, buffalos can be dangerous when threatened.  People who hear the message of the buffalo spirit are reminded to temper their power in dealing with others and allow the tranquility and peace of the Buffalo Brother to enter their lives.  

• Those with this totem need to remember to see the good in all things and not let their frustration store up inside them.

• Unlike the European domesticated cow that places its rump toward approaching cold and faces away, the buffalo turns its head to face and stand firmly against raging storm.  This quality reminds us to have courage and face problems head-on.       

• Buffalos unite against danger as buffalo cows defend their young, old and sick by forming a protective circle around them and the bulls form a circle around the cows.  If you see the buffalo circle in dream or vision, it may mean someone around you requires your strength to defend and honor them. Or, it is a call to unite with others to bring about positive change.   

• The huge head of the Buffalo Brother signifies higher mental abilities that is grounded to Mother Earth by their tough bodies.

• The buffalo teaches us how to eliminate our burdens by directing our energy in a balanced way. 

BUTTERFLY

The butterfly is great admired among American Indians and is a bringer of joy and peace. Cultures all over earth revere its delicate and colorful beauty. Most butterflies live very short lives, only a week or two, except for the Angle Wing and Monarch live about six months.  They experience stages of development from egg in the cocoon to caterpillar to adult butterfly.  

BUTTERFLY MEDICINE

• The short life span and beauty of the butterfly is symbolic of early spiritual growth.   Lessons of life will be shown during sometimes difficult formative years and come to light as the butterfly spirit begins to fly.  They hold the gift of transformation and soul evolution.    

• The butterfly is reminiscent of freedom and creativity. 

• Butterflies have a pair of large compound oval eyes made up of thousands of individual lenses.  They can see a single image clearly and are able to perceive ultraviolet wavelengths of light.  This suggests clairvoyant abilities for those that hold this totem.

• The antennae of the butterfly has small knobs on each end which is said to play a role in orientation.  When one antennae is missing the butterfly will fly in circles unable to find its way.  Those with this medicine need to stay consciously connected to spirit at all times in order to arrive at their desired destination. 

• Butterflies are not very organized, often return to the same flower many times before they realize it, and cannot remember relatives.  This trait shows us to be better prepared for life's challenges and relationships. 

• The butterfly represents the process of transformation and shape shifting.  When butterfly shows up, make note of the most important issues confronting you at the moment.  What state of change are you at in regard to them?

• Butterflies remind us not to take life so seriously. They feed on flowers that they help pollinate, thereby further spreading beauty. They represent the element of air, quickly changing and ever moving, so gracefully.  Butterflies are messengers of the moment. They come in a variety of colors. To understand the message that the butterfly holds for you a study of its colors can be helpful.

• Whenever an eco system is damaged, butterfly is usually the first to leave. They are especially sensitive to the harmony of earth. If butterfly comes to you in a hurt, trapped or ill way, you are being asked to stop disturbing the natural design of life and to flow with events in a more gentle, natural way. 

COYOTE

Coyote is subject of many American Indian stories, songs and ceremonies and if often referred to as the Trickster.  Coyotes can adapt to almost any environment, but prefer the prairies and low foothills. They live in undergrounds dens or sometimes caves.  Coyote is a survivor.  Hunted to near extinction, coyote populations are slowly rebounding in areas where they are least threatened.  

COYOTE MEDICINE

• Coyotes usually mate for life. This favorable characteristic of Coyote reminds us to be loyal in all our relationships and especially those of a spiritual nature.   Roaming from relationship to relationship, without direction or stability should be avoided. 

• Coyote is a cunning adversary.  He sniffs the air and surrounding plants and stones looking for the scent of prey.  Once a scent is located he stalks with great stealth and circles the area in which prey is located to understand possible escape routes and determine the best area suitable for an attack to take place.  The spirit of coyote shows us ways to fully understand the circumstances surrounding situations in every day life and to develop reasonable plans to achieve our goals.        

• Coyotes slyly hunt small game and move very slowly into position before pouncing on their prey.  Applying this lesson in life, we can learn patience and ways to move forward at the best possible times.

• Coyotes are excellent teachers, providers and protectors of their families.  They will go to extreme lengths to insure the safety and well-being of their offspring.  Visions and dreams in which coyote spirit makes itself known may bear a message of duty and responsibility to ones family, community or employment.     

• Coyotes work well with its brothers and sisters to develop a strong community.  Like the coyote we can work with others to get what we want in life.  Followers of coyote medicine put other peoples needs before their own.

• Coyote is always on the look out for traps set by both humans and other animals.  They move cautiously through their environment ready in a flash to move out of dangers way.  Thank the coyote spirit for showing you ways to avoid life's pitfalls.

CROW MEDICINE

Crow is the left-handed guardian. Crow knows the unknowable mysteries of creation and is the keeper of all sacred law. There are several species of crow. Raven is one of these and magpies are another. Crow medicine people are masters of illusion. Do not try to figure crow out. It is the power of the unknown at work, and something special is about to happen.

Crow is also the guardian of ceremonial magic and healing. In any healing circle, Crow is present. Crow guides the magic of healing and the change in consciousness that will bring about a new reality and dispel "dis-ease" or illness. You can rest assure when ever crows are around, magic is near by and you are about to experience a change in consciousness. Crow can give you the courage to enter the darkness of the void, which is the home of all that is not yet in form.

They are territorial and won't give up an area without a fight. They are loners, seeming to like to spend time to themselves.

If you have a crow as a totem, you need to be willing to walk your talk and speak your truth. You must put aside your fear of being a voice in the wilderness and "caw" the shots as you see them. Crow is an omen of change. If he keeps appearing to you he may be telling you that you have a powerful voice when addressing issues that you do not quite understand or feel that they are out of balance.

When you meet crow, he could be telling you that there will be changes in your life and that possibly you should step by the usual way you view reality and look into the inner realms …walk your talk…be prepared to let go of your old thinking and embrace a new way of viewing yourself and the world.

Crow is the sacred keeper of the law. Crow medicine signifies a firsthand knowledge of a higher order of right and wrong than that indicated by the laws created in human culture. With Crow medicine, you speak in a powerful voice when addressing issues that for you seem out of harmony, out of balance, out of whack, or unjust.

When you learn to allow your personal integrity to be your guide, your sense of feeling alone will vanish. Your personal will can then emerge so that you will stand in your truth. The prime path of true Crow people says to be mindful of your opinions and actions. Be willing to walk your talk, speak your truth, know your life’s mission, and balance past, present, and future in the now. Shape shift that old reality and become your future self. Allow the bending of physical laws to aid in creating the shape shifted world of peace.

http://www.birdclan.org/crow.html

DOG

Dogs have one of the best totems or spirit guides because they are well attuned to the nature of humans and understand the best ways to guide them.  Throughout history the dog has been known as man's best friend.  There are hundreds of varieties, sizes and shapes found on every continent.  Certain breeds of dog are designed for specific functions.     

DOG MEDICINE

• The dog is a protector and guardian.  Their acute hearing and keen sight forewarned their masters of impending danger. They serve selflessly never asking for their service to be praised.  They hold the energies of unconditional love and teach us its true meaning.

• Domesticated dogs are faithful companions to humans and enjoys being useful by serving human friends.  Their sense of spirit and the ability to love even when abused is incredible.  The dog teaches those with this totem how to give and receive love unconditionally.  It also carries the energy of forgiveness.  People with dog medicine would do well in service oriented jobs.

• Dogs are intelligent and sensitive. They are able to sniff out dangerous situations accurately and guide us into safety. Psychic gifts have long been are associated with the dog because of their ability to detect subtle energy frequencies often unknown to mankind. If dog suddenly appears in your life pay attention to your immediate surroundings and let the dog guide your footsteps.

• Certain breeds of dog were designed for specific functions. The study of the breed and its purpose can help you define the energy associated with it. Since wolves and coyotes are its descendants these should be studied as well.

• The behavior of a dog often reflects the personality of its owner. Through its observation and constant interaction with you it anticipates your next move, and serves as a mirror image of who you truly are. The dog is a great teacher for those who are willing to be loyal students. The choice is yours.

EAGLE 

American Indians see the eagle as a sacred messenger that carries prayers to the Creator and returns with gifts and visions.  We use eagles feathers to connect to this majestic and powerful spirit guide as we know the eagle feather holds cleansing and healing powers.  The eagle is seen by many cultures as a symbol of courage, vision, strength and endurance.   

EAGLE MEDICINE

• Eagles need isolation in the wild to propagate and prosper.  This teaches us that we have a singular walk in life and must face life on its terms.

• Freedom is vital to the survival of the eagle and this teaches us that all people must be free to choose their own paths; to worship as the Creator leads them; and to respect the freedom of others.     

• As a lesson in balance and equality, both female and male eagles care for their young.  

• The Eagle teaches how to master the art of patience and how to move through life without material attachments from their ability to sit for long hours perched on a limb in meditation. 

• Eagles have excellent hearing and can hunt as much by ear as by sight. To those to whom eagle comes, the ability to hear spiritually and psychically will awaken.

• Eagles have sharp beaks and strong jaws that can remove a finger in one snap.  The eagle tells us to mind our words and how they affects others; to speak kindly without sharp rancor.

• Eagles are renowned for their superior vision, ten times greater than human eyesight.  This quality is a gift of vision and clarity that should be used to help others through dark and troubling times.   

• One who seeks the eagle spirit views situations and other people from a broad perspective for better understanding just as the eagle sees the world from a its great height.    

• The eagle is a creature of the air, but has strong legs to walk on the earth and often lives near the water for food.   These  qualities of the eagle teach us to maintain balance in all dimensions to achieve inner-growth.  As we soar to spiritual awareness, we remain well grounded in reality as we purify ourselves with the cleansing waters.  

• The eagle teaches us to have the courage to strive for greater heights of spirituality.  The Eagle is seen by American Indians as a connection to the Great Mystery - The Creator of all things.

FALCON

The Falcon is a bird of prey that possesses great powers of speed and  precision.  They are found throughout the world except in Antarctica.  Falcon are 15 to 21 inches long with a wingspan of 40 inches.  The female is slightly larger than the male and both have long pointed wings.  They like to nest in cliffs, tall trees and on tall buildings and eat other birds.   Falcons live about 15 years and travel great distances during migrations.

FALCON MEDICINE

• The hunting technique of the falcon relies on spectacular "stoops," in which the birds fold their wings and go into a dive that ends with a midair strike. Depending on the size of the prey, they either grab hold with their talons, or knock the kill out of the air and descend to pluck and eat.  The medicine of the falcon spirit often emphasizes swift movement or aggressive action.   

• The falcon rides wind currents searching for movement in the sky or on the ground.  When falcon comes to perch near you, the message may be to search for new ideas, take a broader view, or look at a situation with a fresh perspective.

• When on the hunt, falcons will often dive for prey prematurely and miss the kill, indicating they may be somewhat impatient.  Examine your actions to see if you are acting in a similar way in a situation that requires more patience.

• It's beauty, regal stance and aggressiveness marks the falcon as a leader among the bird people.  Search for ways to be a role model. 

• Frequently, the falcon, like the hawk and owl, is a messenger spirit guide and will come and leave quickly during an event and make a powerful statement or whisper quietly in your ear. 

• Falcons need freedom and stimulation in their lives.  Possibly this is the message they bring to you.

FOX

The Fox represents cunning, slyness, stealth, observation, and wisdom. 

The Fox can take on human form according to Chinese and American Indian beliefs.  The Hopi, Cherokee and other tribes know that Fox Medicine brings healing power.  The Apache say the Fox brought the first fire to the people.  Other cultures such as the ancient Egyptians thought the Fox brought blessings of the gods.  The Incas deified the Fox.  

There are 23 species of omnivorous canid Foxes worldwide and is found on nearly every continent.  In the Bengali language the Fox is known as "huacka-hua."  The French call the Fox "Le renard glapit."  The Japanese say, "konkon."   Foxes tend to be smaller than other members of their family such as wolves, jackals and domestic dogs. They have slender, slightly flattened skulls, pointed muzzles, moderately short but powerful legs, large ears, and long, bushy tails.  Unlike many canids, foxes are not pack animals; they are solitary, opportunistic feeders that hunt live prey (especially rodents) by stealth, cunning and surprise. With great dexterity and a pouncing technique practiced from an early age, they are usually able to kill their prey instantly. Foxes also gather a wide variety of other foods ranging from grasshoppers to fruit and berries. Foxes have been successfully employed to control pests on fruit farms, leaving the fruit intact.  Foxes hold individual territories and generally remain within them except for the mating season. Young foxes are called kits. Males are known as dogs and females are called vixen.  A group of foxes is a skulk.

FOX MEDICINE

• The Fox also has a highly developed sense of smell.  As an animal spirit guide, the Fox will help you to recognize subtle things in life and make you alert to unpleasant situations.

• A Fox is very quite and blends into its surroundings becoming almost invisible. Being in harmony with ones surroundings is important to people who carry this medicine.  For those with this animal spirit guide, try being very quiet and practice blending in without notice - especially if you have a powerful presence around others. 

• The body of the Fox is quite small in comparison to its cousins, but its ample fur offers good protection and appears to be much bigger than it is.  There are several things that may be learned from this good trait. 

• The Fox has super-sensitive hearing - so you may also be able to hear Spirit.  Listening is often more important than speaking - a good lesson to remember.

• Mr. Fox comes out of hiding at dusk-twilight the time and often hunts under the cover of darkness.  His keen eyesight is a gift that may teach you too see beyond your present situation and to be able to see Spirit.  

• By living between light and darkness, the Fox looks into both worlds.  

• The Fox is physically and mental quick and extremely agile which can teach you ways to respond quickly to situations by using the power of inner instincts and knowing.

• A Fox teaches good eating habits - not from what it eats, but from the way it eats.  The fox eats small amounts frequently.  The Fox is not a picky eater and readily accepts whatever is available.    

The Fox packs a lot of medicine and good teachings into its small body.  Knowing the Fox and its ways will help you maintain balance and harmony in your life. 

HORSE

Speed, strength, and grace are the finer qualities of this noble animal.  The horse lived on the North American continent for thousands of years, but mysteriously disappeared and was later reintroduced by Spanish Conquistadors in the 1500's.  American Indians quickly mastered equestrian skills and found the spirit of the horse to be a valuable asset in learning ways of leadership, safety in movement and freedom.

HORSE MEDICINE

• Even though the horse can be domesticated, it's spirit forever roams into the far reaches of freedom.   The horse meant ease of movement for indigenous people who quickly learned they could hunt and move into new territories as never before.  For those who seek the spirit of the horse, the idea of freedom may be a predominant theme.  To the American Indian, the horse symbolizes freedom and the power that comes with being free.

• If horse has come in your dreams or visions, there may be a promise of safe travel ahead.  Movement or a new adventure, whether it be physical or spiritual is near.  

• People knowledgeable of horse medicine know that taming the wild, freedom seeking aspects of its personality is not easy, but the benefits of gentleness and tolerance is attainable with patient kindness and continual training.

• The horse spirit is intensely independent that often creates conflict in personal and professional relationships.   People who walk with the horse spirit are often independent leaders who forge new paths of awareness.

• The power and strength of the horse spirit is able to take its rider to new spiritual territory.  It reminds us of our inner power and gives us courage to move forward.

• The strong legs and back of the horse remind us to remain solidly grounded in our spiritual walk our earthly experiences and to carry the burdens of life with dignity.    

LIZARD

Lizards are ancient brothers who are found in warmer climates all over the earth. There are five general families of lizards and literally hundreds of species, the largest being the Komodo Dragons weighing in at more than 350 pounds and the smallest is the Beata measuring less than three quarters of an inch long.  They have many descriptive names such as the Australian Bearded Dragon, Yellow Spotted Gecko, Iguanas, Salamanders, and Horned Lizards who squirt blood from their eyes.  Many American Indian tribes recorded their relationship with the lizard in images on pottery, petroglyphs, effigy bowls, figures, and shells and portrayed lizards in their ceremonies and stories as symbols of strength. 

LIZARD MEDICINE

• Some Southwest Indian tribes believe horned lizards can cure the sick by asking for the lizard's strength in song and chant showing their respect to the animal. 

• The Lizard is often seen laying peacefully in the shadows of rocks or seen skittering around in dark holes, between light and darkness and is thus referred to as the 'dream walker' or one who lives in the dream world.  Dreams are important to the human psychic and depict subtle messages from deep within the mind.  Lizard medicine reveals these hidden messages during the dream state.  Proper interpretation of these dreams often requires the assistance of one trained in the ways of the lizard medicine.  

• The psychic characteristics inherent in the lizard teaches those with this medicine how to awaken their own abilities by making choices that honor every part of ones life.  When lizard appears it signifies a need to go within and analyze your present reality and once done, move with confidence and conviction out into the world of new beginnings.

• A powerful totem to have, lizard reveals your weaknesses, your strengths and prompts the energy of change.

• The lizard is very sensitive to ground vibrations, they have keen eyesight and superior hearing.  Those who feel the spirit of the lizard can learn ways to use their enhanced sensory perceptions to connect with their deeper psychic and spiritual awareness.   

• One power of the lizard is its ability to escape from danger by leaving its tail behind and growing another.  When lizard slithers into your life, it may mean a need to move quickly to avoid danger and be prepared to leave something behind.

LYNX

The Lynx is an exquisitely beautiful member of the cat family know by its short, strong body and long legs, bobbed tail and tufts of fur that sprout out a the top of each ear.  Their coats are thick and luxurious in the winter to protect them against the icy winds that prevail in the high mountainous regions of Canada and Alaska. Having large, padded paws the lynx is sure-footed on ice and snow while chasing its primary prey, the snowshoe hare.  Like most cats, the Lynx will spend much of its life alone. The lynx has powerful eyesight and great abilities of stealth and cunning are formidable. 

LYNX MEDICINE

• It is said the ancient Greeks believed the lynx could see through mountains and American Indians tell many stories about the hypnotic eyes of the lynx with their captivating powers seduction.  These and other unique characteristics have encouraged ideas that the lynx has supernatural qualities.      

• The lynx is a patient hunter and its messages often entail serenity, tolerance, understanding.  The lynx helps us to endure waiting for  long periods to achieve a necessary goal. 

• The lynx is very territorial and will go to great lengths to protect its hunting grounds.  If lynx is in your dreams and visions, you may be in  need of spiritual or mental protection.  The lynx keen nose can warn against negative invasions.

• As a solitary animal who hunts and lives alone much of its life, the lynx often comes to those who are loners by desire or design.  Lessons of independence and self-reliance are part of its offering, but sometimes the message may be one to console a lonely heart or spirit. 

• Because of its coloring, size and stealth, the lynx is able to blend and sometimes appear to disappear in its environment.  This medicine is valuable in moving unseen between planes and remaining in the background, unobserved and not up front in relationships and events.  

• Once the lynx has successfully tracked its prey, he will sit and quietly observe the whole environment before moving for the kill.  Watching for intruders, other prey and passersby, the lynx will absorb all the various activities and weigh all the options before taking action.  These characteristics are valuable lessons life in general terms for humans.  Silent observation is a great power that allows one see things unnoticed by others.  As we follow the power of good silence, we are able to hear the higher purpose intended by the Creator.   

MOOSE

Our powerful moose cousin is a symbol of courage and determination.  Those who know the moose spirit proudly walk with grace and have universal knowledge.  The power of their presence is awesome and inspiring.

MOOSE MEDICINE   

• Moose calves are born with their eyes open.  Those who follow the moose medicine see life situations with clarity and can see into the beyond.

• The moose's huge antlers protect it during battle and represents the tree of knowledge.  This teaches us to shield ourselves from life's many adversaries with truth and spiritual understanding.

• The adult male can stand over 7 feet tall and weigh 1,200 pounds.  Its size and lumbering appearance is deceiving because the moose is agile and fast.   Moose spirit guides bring these same qualities to the individual who seek their wisdom.  

• Despite its great size, moose can camouflage itself very well and can move silently and quickly through its terrain.   This teaches us ways to become invisible when necessary and not allow our powerful presence to become overbearing to others.

• The bellow of the male moose can be heard for many miles.  This trait shows us that our great presence can be known to all when necessary. 

• The appearance of the moose is both awkward and graceful at the same time.  These traits are translated in human terms as   instruction in ways to be gracious and relaxed in our dealings with others.

• Moose have a keen sense of smell and hearing.   The spirit guide of the moose will often bring messages of future events yet unseen.

• The sheer power and strength of the moose is tremendous.  Those who walk with the moose know the value of good self esteem and quickly discover their walk in life.  

OTTER

There are thirteen species of otters divided into two living environments, the river and sea.  Otters grow to be around four feet long and males weigh over sixty-five pound and the female over forty-five pounds. Their hearing is excellent and they can see very well under water.  Otters have flipper-like hind feet for propulsion and their whiskers can sense movement in the water. The retracting claws on the front paws are cat-like and otters have an excellent sense of touch.  The otter has a long stream-lined body, small ears and a broad muzzle.  Their extremely thick fur that keeps them insulated in frigid waters.  They are the one of the very few animal known to use tools.   

OTTER MEDICINE

• As otters are very territorial they tend to live alone.  This medicine teaches independence and self-reliance for our needs. 

• Otters are very playful and are frequently seen They are often seen floating on their backs with their paws extended out of the water soaking up sunrays,  sliding on their bellies playfully, performing water acrobatics or chattering to their neighbors.  Their relaxed and happy attitude about life reminds those to whom the otter spirit splashes to laugh and enjoy life to its fullest. 

• Otters are curious about everything in their domain. They will touch or sniff every object within sight.  No stone, plant, critter or other object will escape the otter's appetite to know, "who or what are you?".  This special medicine reminds us to always look at situations, events and people from different angles; to always be open to new challenges.

• Otters are agile and fast in the water.  Water is the element of emotional energy in man.  Otter spirit teaches us how to swim through problems and emotional upheavals of life with ease.  

• Otters are very good parents and nurture their offspring longer than most marine mammals.  The relish the company of their neighbors Otter medicine emphasizes nurturing energies within us and the creative and interactive, comforting associations with other beings.

• The otter likes to talk and they are often heard chatting away to anyone or anything within earshot.  When frightened their calls take on an eerie piercing sound similar to a baby screaming. They have few natural enemies and are not afraid of humans.  If the otter swims into your life the message may be to rid yourself of fret, worry and pain.  Enjoy the blessings Creator has provided and follow the otters lead.

OWL

There are about 135 species of owl across the world and 18 are found in North America.  The owl is a silent flyer, extraordinary vision and the best hearing of any bird in the world. Grandmother Owls can rotate their heads three- quarters of the way around rather quickly giving the illusion of a complete turn.  All owls are predatory and some owls hunt during the day but most hunt at night.  Some species, like the Screech Owl and the Great Horned Owl, live in one place year round; others, like the Saw-whet Owl and the Short-Eared Owl and the Burrowing Owl will travel long distances.  It is illegal to capture or kill an owl in the United States.  Contrary to superstition, owls pose no threat to humans, physically or spiritually. 

OWL MEDICINE

• The secretive habits of the owl, its quiet flight and various calls from whistles, screeches and hoots,  have made them objects of fear and superstition.  The Creator made no evil creatures.  Individuals to whom the owl speaks are very fortunate because messages of the owl are deep, far reaching and complex.

• The varied and remarkable abilities of Grandmother Owl to fly silently and to quietly move from place to place offer lessons of stealth and poise to our every day lives. 

• The wise appearance from their large eyes, stout bodies teaches those people who hear the call of the owl to find deeper reasoning in relationships and events.    

• The vision and hearing of Grandmother Owl is very powerful.  Those with this medicine are can be gifted with the ability to see into the human psychic and become clairvoyant listeners.  Owl often visits those who are teachers, therapists and counselors.

• Because most owls are active between dusk and dawn, they are sometimes called 'Night Eagles, or messengers from the dark side.  If Grandmother Owl comes and sits nearby, it may indicate a need to peer into the darkness and face our fears.  Or, a great mystery that is unfolding will be revealed by looking deeper in to its meaning.   

• Grandmother Owl is often thought to come to those who need to let go of some part of their life that is no longer needed.  

• As a guide, the owl teaches us to see and hear past shadows, beyond fear and darkness, though to the other side that promises light, happiness and knowledge. 

PUMA / PANTHER  

The puma is also known as jaguar, panther, cougar, mountain lion, cheetah, leopard and more names than just about any other mammal.   Male pumas are solitary cats and their domain vary in size between 30 to 125 miles, but ranges do overlap the ranges of the smaller female.  Pumas 'communicate' with each other by leaving feces, urine, scratches on logs or in the dirt or snow.  Only females make a den and males tend to roam.  Pumas are powerfully built and have sharp paws and large paws. Even though they can run very fast and have a flexible spine to help them maneuver around obstacles and change direction quickly, pumas are mostly ambush hunters.  Pumas have been known to down large elks and moose.  American Indians successfully lived beside the puma and appreciated their power and grace.

PUMA MEDICINE

• Though the puma is smaller, some species are more fierce than lions and tigers.  They are expert climbers and swimmers. Their speed hold the teachings of quick decisive action.

• Pumas are graceful and fast runners, but not for long distances. If puma arrives at your doorstep it may be a reminder to measure or pace your movements according to the goal to be achieved and not run too hard. 

• The puma have over 410 voluntary muscles that can be used when the needed.  This characteristic symbolizes the ability to move into different realities. 

• Pumas have built-in sensors that enhances its ability to see and feel its prey.  The whiskers and hair on its face can detect faint vibrations at long distances and its sense of smell is phenomenal.  If you sense puma in your dreams it may mean there is a need to be more sensitive the people and situations around you.  Becoming more perceptive of ones surroundings is sometimes needed to achieve a heightened sense of spiritual awareness.    

• The Puma spirit represents power, grace and stealth in darkness, but its real power lies in the silence of its eerie, unblinking stare that seems to bore deep into one's soul.  This teaching can help us to discover the benefits of concentration, deep contemplation and prayer.  As we peer into the darkness of the unknown to feel its power, we can be guided by our puma friend to the light on the other side.

• The puma is extremely quiet during the hunt.  It knows when to be invisible and when to make its awesome presence known.  Silence is its sword and power.  Silence is highly respected among American Indians and is seen as a holy state of consciousness as we quietly behold the grace and glory of the Creator.  It is said that silence speaks words of the Great Mystery.  When the student is ready, the puma teacher may bring knowledge of this powerful medicine. 

RABBIT  

The rabbit never goes far from its burrow as it timidly searches for vegetable foods to supply its growing family.  There are over twenty four species of rabbits in America and many more around the world.  Rabbits serve as a perfect example of nature's balance as nearly all predatory animals eat rabbits, but because they multiply so fast, their numbers are kept fairly constant.   Quick reflexes and keen observation skills are its two most important traits.

RAVEN  

Ravens are the largest songbird in North America.  Raven are often referred to by some indigenous tribes as the 'secret keepers' and are the subject of many stories.  Their ebony black color is sometimes associated with darkness.  Ravens are very intelligent and are able mimic the sounds other birds and can squawk out some human words.  Ravens are found in many different regions and climates.

 RAVEN MEDICINE

• The raven spirit guide is not chosen by those who seek its wisdom.  The raven only comes to those to whom it may speak in private and share its secrets with the knowledge its mysteries will be well guarded by one who already possesses wisdom.

• The raven is known as the 'Secret Keeper by some native tribes because of their way of silently perching near people and 'listening' to conversations then flying away in a flutter shrieking an eerie sound or mimicking a human word.   Because of their inky black color they are linked to a place where fear and secrets are kept.   

• When sun shines on the ravens shiny body it sometimes reflects many colors is therefore sometimes said it has the ability to transform itself, especially when it makes the call of another species.  If the raven is seen in dreams or visions it may mean significant changes are about to take place.

• Ravens are intelligent and can be seen in the wild 'instructing' other birds and animals.  From the raven we may learn ways to become better teachers and understand the languages of many.

• Regardless of common European belief, the raven is not an omen of death and should never be feared as its messages are those that can benefit the listener.  The Creator did not make any evil creatures on Mother Earth.  

• Because of ravens ability to make a variety of sounds and high pitched vibrations are known to alter consciousness, the raven is sometimes credited with the ability to transform, move into other dimensions or to shape shift.  We may expect frequent changes if the raven is perched on your shoulder. 

SKUNK

Skunks are a member of the weasel family and in North America, there are four types of skunks.  About the size of a house cat, skunks are active at night but are also seen during the day.  Their habitat is in clearings, pastures, prairies and at the forest edge where they dig burrows or live in any convenient covered area.  Skunks prefer to eat meat and insects but also dine on vegetation and any food with a strong odor.  Of course, it's most famous characteristic is its horrendous defense system, skunk ink.    

SKUNK MEDICINE

• For all recorded time, skunks have been respected and feared.  When threatened, the skunk raises its bushy tail, stamps its feet, stiffens its legs and the hair on body raises up and it hisses like a angry cat.  It these tactics do not work to frighten the invader, the skunk simply turns its rump and sprays up to 10 - 14 feet with accuracy. This disgusting musk liquid irritates the eyes, temporarily blocks vision and stuns other senses of its victim such as smell and touch.  What the skunk spirit teaches with this display of power is unknown to this writer as we have never ventured close enough to find out.  Regardless, we can surmise the skunk 'medicine' teaches us to take heed when a warning presents itself.  When our instincts tell us there is danger or trouble facing us, we should not allow our brain to get in the way, but instead follow our senses and take appropriate steps to move in another direction.  If we respect the instinctual part of our being we can avoid problems before they develop.  If our stinky little friend appears, take heed - a smelly situation or danger is not far away.

• Skunks are solitary creatures (no doubt), slow moving and walk with an air confidence and pride.  If you get a whiff of skunk spirit in your dreams, it could be signal to emulate his message to improve your self-esteem and honor yourself as a sacred being. 

• Skunks are quiet creatures, not totally unsociable, but reserved and unobtrusive.   Should our odorous little friend visit you as spirit, it may be to remind you that being egotistical, self-righteous, boisterous or overbearing creates problems.  Follow the way of this animal guide (about 20 feet away) and learn to be humble and gentle with others.

• It is said the white stripe from the head to tail of the skunk is a sign of creativity and good medicine.  

SERPENT/SNAKE   

There are 2,267 species of snakes living in the world today.  Snakes have essentially the same organs as humans, but they do not have eyelids or ears.  Usually, females are larger than males and most can travel three to five miles per hour.  Some snakes are born fully formed, while others hatch from eggs and snakes in captivity have lived over thirty years.  Snakes are fascinating creatures that deserve respect.  Throughout history the snake has had many legends associated with it linking them to creation, fertility and transformation.