top of page
Writer's pictureBell Ave Books

Spirit Animal Guides and Meanings: Part I

Updated: Jul 19

Animals serve as powerful metaphors for universal concepts and historically carry symbolic meaning for many cultures.


Some believe animals represent deities while others attribute animal symbolism to the values of an individual, family or clan.


Animals carry meaningful messages and lessons guiding our attention to something that needs to be acknowledged, dealt with or explored, bringing new understanding about ourselves and our relationship with our world and the situations we are presented with.


Exploring how and when we encounter animals in nature allows us to engage our imagination and intuition, rather than relying on intellect and logic.


How to identify with your spirit animal?


  • Meditation

  • Daydreaming

  • Dreams

  • Observing nature

  • Journaling

  • Imagination

  • Calling the animal


It is important to note that you may have relationships with several spirit animals throughout your life as they will find you and guide you through the various phases of life. Spirit animals choose you, you cannot choose your spirit animal.


They may present themselves to you through dreams and meditation or you may encounter them in their physical form, the latter will usually be noticeable, calling your attention as the animal acts in a manner that is out of the ordinary.


What to do when you find your spirit animal?


Learn as much as possible about the animal, its characteristics and attributes. Observe it in the physical form and also imagine the animal.


Ask yourself questions:

  • How does the animal relate to me?

  • How do I feel about this animal?

  • If you met the animal in physical form, what feelings did it evoke within you?

  • Do I feel the same way about an aspect of my life?

  • What qualities do I associate with this animal?

  • How does the animal and its representations connect to my life?

Here are a few common animals and their possible interpretations.


Ant

Ants are a symbol of hard work, patience and diligence. They work in groups and are representative of teamwork and self sacrifice. They are symbols of good luck and and can teach perseverance to attain life dreams and goals.


Bee

Bees are a symbol of strength, diligence, social consciousness, purity and harmony. The bee is tiny, but carries with it the might to achieve the most ambitious projects. When you align with the bee you comprehend the immense advantage you have, with the ability to create in your own life and the life of others.


Bear

Bears are symbolic of strength, confidence, protection and grounding. The bear is known for hibernating in the winter and emerging in the spring, this is symbolic of rebirth. Bears are known for their wildness, ferociousness and untamed demeanor, though they are also wise and gentle. The bear is often symbolic of standing up for your beliefs and exudes confidence. Check out our unique handmade pocket totems. Keep this with you as a reminder of the characteristics of the bear.


Butterfly

The butterfly represents hope, transformation and change. The butterfly symbolizes rebirth, metamorphosis and renewal. It exudes lightness and playfulness, encouraging us to go through important changes with grace and airiness. The butterfly is a symbol of a long life and good fortune. Our butterfly pocket totem is a beautiful representation of how the butterfly appears in your life.


Blue Jay

The blue jay is clever and playful, it is a trickster as it can mimic the calls of other birds. The blue jay is symbolic of intuition, adaptability and resourcefulness. The blue embodies confidence in its character and is tenacious. Blue jay’s are known as loyal mates and protects the members of his flock.


Bat

The bat is a symbol of change and transition. Bats remind us to pursue spiritual growth and encourage us to trust our intuition and natural instincts. Bats teach us to face darkness and to seek out the light as an opportunity for rebirth. When a bat appears it is symbolic that it is time to let go of your old ways and that which is holding you back from achieving your true potential.


Cardinal

The cardinal is symbolic of self confidence, adventure, transformation and progress. The cardinal encourages you to grow and explore as an individual. Cardinals appear to inspire us to seek our hidden talents, expressing them joyfully. The cardinal symbolizes inner strength and the ability to achieve greatness by taking risks and action. The cardinal is charismatic, confident and creative.


Cat

The cat symbolizes courage to explore the unknown. It represents patience in waiting for the right moment, the spirit of adventure, curiosity and a deep connection to the self. Cats are agile and flexible, they are fiercely independent, but also social creatures. The cat is sensual, mischievous and intuitive, with the ability to find harmony between light and dark.


Coyote

The coyote is a playful trickster, reminding us to not take things to seriously, as things may not be what they seem. The coyote symbolizes adaptability and playfulness. The coyote is a teacher and uses trickery to deliver its wisdom and message. The coyote can help bring a fresh perspective and encourages us to be open to new possibilities.


Crow

The crow is mysterious and mystical and is known for its perspective and insight. The crow is a trickster and uses its magic to guide us to discover and appreciate the mysteries of life, encouraging us to maintain a sense of curiosity of the unknown. The crow symbolizes intelligence, fearlessness, magic and destiny. The crow is adaptable and often indicates transformation.


Cow

The cow symbolizes power and fertility and is closely connected to the Earth. The cow represents compassion and perception. The cow is steadfast and nurturing. The cow reminds us of the origins of life and are symbolic of serenity.


Deer

Deer are majestic creatures and signify profound change. They are graceful, gentle, intuitive and exude composure having a strong connection to the natural world. Deer are symbolic of inner peace and calm. They are also innocent and naïve. Deer symbolize fresh perspective and regeneration, encouraging us to move past outdated ways, releasing patterns and thoughts that no longer serve us. For a reminder of how the deer appears in your life keep one of our unique handmade pocket totems with you wherever you go.


Dove

The dove is a symbol of peace and reconciliation, representing commitment, love and faithfulness. The dove is the universal sign for peace, innocence and purity.


Dog

Dogs are symbolic of unconditional love and represent loyalty and devotion. They are faithful and wise. The symbolism can vary by breed, so it is important to take into account the characteristics of the breed you have experienced. Dogs are trustworthy and do not complain. They love unconditionally and have great persistence. The dog reminds us to enjoy life and embrace playfulness.


Dragonfly

The dragonfly is wise and adaptable, it is a symbol of transformation and light. The dragonfly encourages us to find joy in being and to explore our feelings, being aware of that which might deceive us. The dragonfly invites us to embrace the changes that will help us achieve our true potential. Dragonflies represent flexibility, helping us keep a positive light and outlook. Take a look at our handmade pocket totem of the dragonfly, this is a perfect reminder of how the dragonfly appears in your life.


Duck

The duck is a symbol of fidelity and represents clairvoyance. Ducks are considered to be a good omen and are loveable and charming. The duck is balance and is naturally beautiful. Ducks are thought to be a sign of discovery, encouraging us to seek opportunities. The duck is a reminder that great fortune favors the bold.





Comentarios


bottom of page