To the God & Goddess
Air Animals
Cardinal
-
Coloring: Black, Orange, Red, and White.
-
Origins: North and South America.
-
Season: Winter and Mid-Winter.
-
Sabbat: Yule and Imbolc.
-
Element: Air and Earth
-
Planet: Earth and Uranus
-
Deity Association: None
-
Symbolize: Bold Energy, Devotion, Hopefulness, Love, Magnificence, Romance, Powerful, Pride, Strong Family Ties, and Supportive.
The bright red color of this member of the finch family along with its sharp song both add to the symbolism and meaning behind Cardinal. Cardinals in nature mate for life. They’re also home bodies staying close to home throughout the year. This gives them strong ties to devotion, nurturing, and love. As Cardinals are ‘year-round’ birds, their Numerology association is Number 12 – the number of perfection and completion. Seeing Cardinals is considered particularly fortunate for relationships because we want those we love to be with us through all seasons or ‘year-round’. Only the male of the species bears the intense red with which these creatures have become associated. Interestingly enough, the brighter the red in Cardinal Spirit’s feathers, the more apt he is to capture the lady of his dreams and mate. Who would have known that Cardinal is such a Romeo! Beyond being Mr. Romance, the male Red Cardinal shows pluck in defending his home and what they consider personal “space”. Do not mess with this guy in his territory. Considering symbolic value and bird medicine here, Cardinal becomes a fierce guardian spirit animal. The Cardinal song is delightfully varied. Bird watchers tell us they hear certain whistles that sound like the word “cheer”. What a wonderful message to spread throughout the woods and regions where Cardinal dwells – be of good cheer! This is an energetic, life-loving song that boosts any weary soul.
When the Cardinal Spirit Animal wings its way into your life, you may be on the event horizon of a new relationship complete with romance and some sensual overtones. There’s music in this partnership so tend it joyfully. Alternatively, Cardinal may show up at the beginning of a pregnancy as a guardian and guide to handling your new role as a parent effectively. As with other birds, Cardinals teach us about the wind and where it takes us. There are times to fly and times to stay firm; wisdom comes in knowing the difference. The distinctiveness of Cardinal’s song also brings lessons about finding your own distinctive voice and keeping it true to self. Another lesson of the Cardinal Spirit Animal is about recognizing your power and place. Cardinal is a blessing to those struggling with insecurity and those striving for self-empowerment. Cardinal shows you how to fight the good fight until you reach your goal.
Those born with Cardinal as a Totem Animal have the medicine of uniqueness. There is no way Cardinal people can hide in a crowd. Either they dress festively with a love of bright colors, or their voice is so distinctive you cannot ignore a word. If you have Cardinal as an Animal Totem you have a strong sense of honor and know how to pick yourself up after setbacks. You have a natural aptitude toward innovation and determination. Whatever “it” is – you stick things out until the very end. Like the Cardinal spirit, you love your home. You have little patience for anyone who abuses your hospitality or overstays a welcome. Anyone deemed dangerous to your territory is NOT welcome. Cardinal people have both fortitude and courage to back up their song with actions. You are generally happy and other people enjoy your upbeat attitude.
Crow/Rook
-
Coloring: Black with tints of Blue.
-
Origins: Global
-
Season: Autumn
-
Sabbat: Samhain
-
Element: Air, Earth, and Water.
-
Planet: Saturn
-
Deity Association: Apollo, Babd, Macha, Morrigan, Rhea Kronia, and Varuna.
-
Symbolize: Bad Omens, Boldness, A Call to the Magic and the Mystery Around Us, Change, Cunning, Death, Divination, Eloquence, Harmony, Integrity, Justice, The Law, The Mysteries of Creation, Prophecy, Resourcefulness, Shape-Shifting, Skill, The Supernatural, and Survival.
The mythologies and folktales around the world recount stories of the Crow Spirit. The symbolism and meaning is frequently ambivalent and intermixed with Raven. But, they shouldn’t be. Yes. These animal allies are similar. But Crows are different in many ways. Crows are much smaller and live almost 20 years less than Ravens. So, Crows teach us to pack big things into small packages. Only have a little short time for vacation? Have all the fun you can! Don’t waste one minute! Crows are beautiful birds, but like the Raven they often got a “bad rep” for bringing death or malevolent magic on their wings. Their black color and eating habits similar to that of Raven make this mutual association natural. However, Crow is not simply a harbinger of gloom – this bird brings the power of foresight to those who work with it. Diviners, seers, and sages alike believe that Crow spirit can see throughout time and past the veils into spaces and places often hid to humans. Shamans and light workers alike tell us that Crows are masters of shape shifting. This is not simply physical, however, it’s energetic. Crow teaches you how to mold your aura, your power into the shape that supports manifestation. One way to tap train your energy, aura, vibration, mindset, emotions to ‘shapeshift’ is by watching Crow in the wild and physically mimicking their behavior. Try this as a moving meditation that brings you closer to the mysteries that Crow carries. Is it any wonder that Crow ranks among the most popular totem animals throughout Shamanic traditions?
The Crow Spirit Animal becomes an amazing advocate for improving your insights. Working with Crow energy and medicine you can begin to see how energies mix, mingle, and transform on an alchemical level. And the spiritual assistance doesn’t end there. Crows are known to be very protective and they work effectively in groups to chase off seemingly impossible foe With Crow in your life, you’ll have a natural desire to safeguard the little guy, defend your territory and speak your truth without fear. You will also find that Crow as a Spirit Animal inspires tenacity. Whatever the wall or barrier, you will eventually figure out a way to get around it. The only caution with Crow is going too far. Avoid manipulation. Crow is still an extraordinarily talented trickster. Use that characteristic in a fun way that “does no harm”.
If Crow is your Totem Animal you are a consummate creator! You’re like the MacGyver of Manifestation! Crow Totem two-legged peoples are amazing at listening, watching, and mimicking. You are skilled beyond what folks readily see. As much as your tribe loves you, with Crow energy as your personality type you can be as infuriating as comical, as light as dark, and as inventive as naive. One of your core strengths is how you often understand the world around you through noticing and interpreting omens and signs. Crow people not superficial. There are many layers to their mind and spirit. A bit of advice for those with Crow as an Animal Totem – Pause long enough to really assess your intentions and whether your dreams and goals are truly realistic. If you stay true to Crow’s integrity, you’ll know deep in your soul that walking your talk builds the bridge to success.
Eagle
-
Coloring: Brown, Dark Brown, Cream, Gray, and White
-
Origins: North America and Northern Mexico.
-
Season: Spring
-
Sabbat: Ostara
-
Element: Air and Spirit.
-
Planet: Sun, and Jupiter.
-
Deity Association: Asshur, Indra, Marduk, Mithras, Ninurta, Ohdinn, Pan, Vishnu, and Zeus.
-
Symbolize: The Ability to Soar Above Everyday Life, Authority, Balance Between the Spirit World and Everyday Life, Clarity of Vision, Nobility, Connecting with the Spirit World, Courage, Fearlessness, Freedom, Helpful Rain, Keen Vision, Lightning, Majesty, Spirituality, War, Strength, Victory, and The Warrior Spirit.
Because the Eagle flies higher than all other birds, He is considered Chief of all flying creatures. This certainly also connects Eagle with the Air element. He also rules over the Eastern quarter of creation, which represents renewal and the season of spring. Egyptians regarded the eagle as symbolizing both the Great Spirit and the sun at noon. They saw the Eagle as rising over mundane restraints into the realm of mystical awareness and spiritual progress. The Native Americans agree with this assessment. To the ancient Romans and Greeks, the Eagle was sacred to Jupiter/Zeus. The Romans used an Eagle to represent Roman emperors, while the Greeks said Zeus could take the form of an Eagle to transport his lover to Mt. Olympus. From high above the Eagle symbolizes an awareness those mysteries that humans find difficult to grasp. Eagle’s vantage point allows him to discover patterns that guide us toward greater spiritual knowledge.
From its place in the heavens the Eagle Spirit Animal can watch over us as a guardian, bear messages to and from the divine, inspire insight, manifest well-being, and offer us wisdom. The Eagle as a spirit animal put you on notice that the winds of change are headed your way. Some type of rebirth or renewal is about to happen, and Eagle prepares you for that change by showing you how to tap your inner strength and fortitude. Stand up tall, wrap courage around your waist, and stay true to yourself. This is a time for self-discovery. You may need to take a retreat to get your mind and spirit together and internalize the dramatic transformation on your doorstep. Eagle is a mover and shaker who stretches your limits to new heights. Eagle as an Animal Spirit Guide often shows up when we face challenges. On his wings he bears determination and the laser sharp focus to get through to the other side of our problems. Some of this symbolism and meaning has to do with ancient lore regarding the Eagle flying so closely to the sun. As a metaphor, “we must be willing to get a little scorched if we are to achieve greatness”.
Those born with an Eagle totem want to experience everything they can. They spread their wings fully on every project or adventure, yet nearly always manage to keep one foot on the ground. Remember, Eagles fly higher than any other bird. The heights of success that those with the Eagle Totem Animal can achieve is astounding. But no bird can stay in the air forever. They must come back to earth. Eagles have 4 toes. In Numerology, 4 is the number of “solid foundations”. In this, Eagle stays grounded to Mother Earth just as well as it soars toward the heavens. This is no minor ability. It is to be reckoned with as few can achieve this remarkable feat. Because of the Eagle people’s ability to fly so high yet stay grounded, they’re great at global thinking and, as such, make potent leaders and teachers. Generally, those with Eagle as a Totem Animal are strong, brave, creative, and insightful. Know that as an Eagle Person, others may find your perspectives a little daunting. You see more than the average human. Your perspective from the sky provides solutions that others cannot see because they’re too close.
Falcon
-
Coloring: Brown, Gray, and White.
-
Origins: Global
-
Season: Summer
-
Sabbat: Litha and Lammas
-
Element: Fire
-
Planet: Sun
-
Deity Association: Circe, Freya, Horus, Menthu, Odhinn, and Ra.
-
Symbolize: Astral Travel, Clear Vision, Control, Energy, Far-Sightedness, Fortitude, Freedom, Healing, Magic, Speed in Action, and Willpower.
The fierce Falcon has special symbolism and meaning in Egypt where it represented the rising sun. Many depictions of the Gods bore a Falcon head, most notably Ra the solar deity. As the “king” of birds, Falcon represents victory, ruler ship, and overcoming. Like other birds Falcon also signifies the Higher Self and connections with the spirit world. Europeans treasured Falcons for hunting assistance as well as an emblem of war. Germans consider Falcon Spirit as an aspect of Loki, the clever trickster, Frigg (the Goddess of wisdom) and Wodan (the All Father). Bundle these together and you discover an Animal Spirit that inspires vision, leadership, purpose and who offers protection especially during transitional periods in life. One of the most popular Falcons is the Peregrine, known to be quite the traveler. This bird lives throughout the glob and migrates, as necessary. Analytical and strategic, the Peregrine Falcon observes its prey and considers the best way to obtain that goal. As a Spirit Animal Falcon teaches us this skill – focusing all our attention on one thing so we can manifest that desire in the most efficient manner possible. Falcon’s alignment with solar energy brings fiery power into the equation. Falcon asks: what is your passion? Are you acting on that passion intelligently? The pursuit of objectives comes naturally to Falcon, but not without having a tactical plan laid out.
When Falcon appears as a Spirit Animal and Guide in your life opportunity isn’t far behind. Falcon’s message is start planning and thinking ahead. Eventually you will be called upon to act, but not without a sound strategy and Falcon’s medicine to guide you. Falcon makes you intimately aware of your own potential. Most personal achievements come when we recognize the proverbial life tools we have in our box. Applying those tools and maintaining focus brings about a soaring success. Falcon may also bear the message of attentiveness. If you are too close to a situate step back and rise above! From here, the situation or environment that surrounds provides clues – increasing your perception and supporting strength of purpose.
If you were born with a Falcon Totem Animal you have a naturally keen mind that can work several steps ahead of many of you co-workers. This aptitude balances nicely with seemingly never-ending patience so that each and every opportunity gets proper attention. The intensity of your focus means that sometimes you need privacy, during which you can really consider timing and strategy. Falcon people are independent. This allows you to follow your inner-clock on action or inaction without having other people complain about your metered pace. In meditating on past lives, you may have a surprise in store as Falcon Totem has ties to royalty and leaders that may not end in one turn of life’s wheel. The Falcon totem is very energetic, often moving and forging ahead. They are not the best leaders, but make excellent scouts. As the Falcon soul matures they become involuntary role models for other curious spirits with a thirst for discovery. Effectively, Falcon people are the pioneers of the modern world, just waiting to soar.
Hawk
-
Coloring: Brown, Yellow, and White.
-
Origins: Central America, Jamaica, North America, and West India.
-
Season: Spring and Summer
-
Sabbat: Imbolc, Ostara, Litha, and Lammas
-
Element: Air and Fire.
-
Planet: Sun
-
Deity Association: Ahura Mazda, Amenti, Apollo, Artemis, Horus, Indra, Mithras Ptah, Rehu, and Seker.
-
Symbolize: Courage, Defense, Dreams, Experience, Illumination, Noticing the Big Picture, Omens, Using Your Talents, Truth, and Wisdom.
When Hawk swoops into your life be ready for a whole new level of awareness developing in your mind and spirit. Hawk bears observation skills and broad perspectives on His wings. You could not ask for a better companion if you’ve been working on your overall insights. Hawk is often a messenger from Angels, Devas and the Divine. He signals a time in your life when you need to focus on what’s ahead and prepare for a leadership role. Your global vision is a potent helpmate in this. Just as the Hawk, you are ready to fly higher than ever before. It is not unusual for Hawk to inspire a time when you begin working heavily with new divination methods. Effectively you’re learning to trust your own inner guidance and Higher Self. Do not simply brush off gut instincts as being happenstance. When Hawk is around these moments become far more frequent. Direct your attention to the messages you’re getting and let Hawk hone your focus. In nature Hawk is a bird of prey. This means that you are learning a lot about timing your actions. One of Hawk’s greatest aptitude is their vision, but in a spiritual setting this applies to not just physical site but supernatural “seeing” too. In ancient times Hawk was associated with the soul. The Egyptians, for example, depicted the human spirit as a Hawk that flew out of the body and reincarnated as a Hawk. Notably Horus, the sky god, also held Hawk sacred. Similarly, the Greeks associated Hawk with Jupiter, the chief among all gods. It makes sense that it is vital for you interpret the spiritual message correctly and internalize the associated lesson, right? Absolutely.
But when this this bird of prey presents as your Spirit Animal, you are now on notice that even the most ordinary of circumstances could have deeper meanings. Hawks have the sharpest eyesight of all Raptors. This signifies that it’s time for you to pause and pay attention – to everything. In particular, Hawk challenges you to get a higher perspective on something that’s been holding you back. Until you get the “big picture” you could remain stagnant. Also, Hawks hunt in groups. When Hawk shows, perhaps it’s time to ask yourself about the company you keep – in both your personal and professional life. What people do you currently consider part of your true soul group? In times of trouble, who would come to your aid and who would fly away in fear? Hawks often mate for life. With this, and their group hunting practices, Hawks perfectly exemplify the “all for one and one for all” pledge. Hawk people have incredibly positive outlooks on life. You see the best of what’s to come and are anxious to share those words of hope with others. The only problem with your intense perspective is that it may make people a little antsy. There are some truths humans willfully hide from themselves. Hawk wants to drag those truths out into the light of day.
So, if Hawk is your Totem Animal, your lesson in this spin around the Medicine Wheel may be to balance your vision with a healthy portion of sensitivity. Red Tailed Hawk symbolism and meanings are tied closely to the Kundalini and Root Chakra. Those with the Hawk Totem Animal are passionate, confident partners who possess a strong libido. Because of the Kundalini connection, Hawk people constantly seek higher enlightenment and devote a good deal of their lives to trying to find and live their bliss.
Hummingbird
-
Coloring: Multi-Colored
-
Origins: North and South America.
-
Season: Spring and Summer
-
Sabbat: Ostara and Litha
-
Element: Water
-
Planet: Moon
-
Deity Association: Huitzilopochtli and Quetzalcoatl.
-
Symbolize: Accomplishing things that are said to be Impossible, Art, Beauty, Energy, Fearlessness, Freedom of Movement, Finding the Joy in Living and Learning From Your own Life Experiences, Flowers, Love, Relaxation, and Tireless Joy and Living From Life's Nectar.
Besides what seems to be miraculous for such a tiny creature, Hummingbirds can stop immediately even when at full diving speeds of 60 mph, they can fly up, down, backward, and forward and when hovering their lovely wings make the sign of infinity. With this in mind, Hummingbird may represent our ability to “Keep on, keepin’ on” even when it seems impossible. Additionally, the figure eight pattern while hovering bears another message about not stagnating in one moment in space and time – embrace your life lessons then look to the future. The hovering movement of Hummingbird is a potent message about being in the moment and enjoying life’s nectar. Many Shamans felt Hummingbird carried the natural healing powers of the herbs and flowers from which they ate. Those with Hummingbird medicine bring love and joy on their wings along with a sprinkling of magic! Hummingbirds wing vibrations since with happy energies. It’s hard to be sad or worried when Hummingbird spirit soars close by. The rainbow hues in Hummingbird feathers further this symbolism and represent renewed hope. Scientists tell us that Hummingbirds are highly intelligent. Their mind memorizes every flower from which they eat, and they know how long it will be before they can return for food. In this context ask: what are you consuming spiritually? What do you truly need to remember? Sometimes we get so soulfully hungry that we can drain our resources. Hummingbird helps avoid that.
When Hummingbird spirit begins whispering in your ear, She reminds you to enjoy the sweet, simple pleasures in life. You are long past due for some “me” time doing things that bring a smile to your face. As Hummingbird guides – your emotional life begins blossoming. Enjoy the nectar of your family garden and celebrate it with abandon. If you have closed off your heart for some reason, Hummingbird assures that the time has come to reach out again. Hummingbird medicine supports our wishes and dreams in a unique way. People often put special goals on the sidelines of life when other pressures arise. Hummingbird’s message is that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams and explore ways to create a new reality. You have so much potential! Let Hummingbird help you unlock it.
People born with a Hummingbird totem embrace life in an upbeat, appreciative way. The smallest wonder attracts their attention. They live fully in each moment, ready to adapt as new, interesting ideas arise. When blessed with Hummingbird as a Totem animal adaptability is your middle name. You can make the most out of nearly any situation and a natural aptitude for picking up the emotions of those feeling blue. The Hummingbird inside you wants to see the best in everyone and search earnestly to find that one gem to focus on. This is a blessing, but people may take advantage of that desire – using your energy on a proverbial flower that just won’t blossom for anyone. Hummingbird people treasure freedom blended with an easy going pragmatism toward life.
Owl
-
Coloring: Brown, Gray, Tan, and White.
-
Origins: Global
-
Season: Summer to Winter.
-
Sabbat: Mabon, Samhain, and Yule
-
Element: Air and Earth.
-
Planet: Earth and Uranus.
-
Deity Association: Anath, Athena, Blodeuwedd, Cailleach, The Goddess, Gwynn ap Nudd, Lilith, Mari, and Yama.
-
Symbolize: The Ability to See Things that are Hidden, Astral Projection, Clairvoyance, Darkness, Deception, Dreams, Freedom, Magic, Night, Observation, Omens, Secrets, Shape-Shifting, Stealth, Swiftness, Total Truth, and Wisdom.
When you seek out Owl, it is a way of reaching your Higher Self and truly seeing things from a spiritual perspective; This refreshing vantage point allows you to open doorways into other realms and connect with the Devas, Ancestors, Angels, and the Divine. Owl has a strong connection with the element of air. Travel with Owl Spirit to the heavens and soar through the halls of the Akashic records. Owl will show you things that might otherwise remain hidden to you, so be open to seeing things in a whole new way. You cannot deceive Owl, which is why this Spirit Animal reminds us to remain true to ourselves, our voice, and our vision. Owl does not tolerate illusion or secrets. If there are skeletons in the closet you can trust that Owl will find them and start house cleaning. It is no surprise that the Goddess Athena held Owls as sacred. In Greek tradition Owl was also a protector. It was believed that an Owl flying over a soldier or army portended victory because Owl would remain watchful. As a creature of the night, the Celts and Egyptians regarded Owl as a gatekeeper to other realms, particularly the souls of the dead. In some stories this bird actually accompanies a soul, so it doesn’t get lost on its journey.
When Owl wings its way into your life, you have the opportunity to become far more observant. Settle down on that tree limb and watch. You’ll be amazed at how much life goes by when you’re not running around so much. In fact, you’ll notice a lot of important details that previously eluded you. The world is filled with layers of symbolism and meaning, and the Owl gives you “new” eyes with which to see those. Owls don’t just honor us with the ability of “Second Sight”. These majestic birds have hearing that is quite literally “perfect stereo”. Their ears are not symmetrical as one is higher than the other. This allows sound to be heard separately in the individual ear. Owl as a Spirit Animal Guide can aid you in hearing what is really being said despite the words and emotions coming from the messenger.
When you know Owl as a Totem Animal, you’ll find your connection with the Yin of the Universe growing stronger, as will your awareness of lunar cycles. Embrace the inner Goddess, weave your spells by the light of a full moon and really listen to your inner voice. Owl as a Totem Animal opens the doorway to seeing the spiritual beings inside the human bodies that house them. You will know things about people that are sometimes awkward or uncomfortable, but you are seeing TRUE. Many people who have Owl totems discover their clairvoyance growing by leaps and bounds. The Owl totem is one of discernment. Let this Spirit guide you during confusing situations. Start trusting your spiritual radar about people and use the beauty of the night to inspire your creativity. Owl spirit has mastered silence and finds its strength there. With Owl as your Totem Animal you will not waste precious energy by speaking with no purpose. Remember, you have 2 eyes, 2 ears and 1 mouth. Seeing and hearing should occur 4 times more than speaking. In this, you’ll be able to glean wisdom others miss because they are too busy chattering their minds away.
Raven
-
Coloring: Black and White (exceedingly rare).
-
Origins: Arctic, Eurasia, North America, North Africa, and Pacific Islands.
-
Season: Autumn
-
Sabbat: Samhain
-
Element: Air, Earth, and Water.
-
Planet: Saturn
-
Deity Association: Apollo, Asclepias, Athene, Babd, Brahma, The Crone, Cronus, Lugh, Morrigan, Nantosuelta, Odhinn, and The Sun.
-
Symbolize: Adaptability, Battle, Change in Consciousness, Death, The Destruction Required for Creation, Dispelling Disease, Divination, Healing, Ingenuity, Inner Fears, Intelligence, Magic, The Spirit World, The Unknown, and War.
Ravens are sacred to the Goddess Morrigan, they are very magical creatures, their feathers are black as night and they are able to move between the worlds of the living and the dead. When Raven as a spirit animal guide comes cawing loudly into your life, it marks a moment to pause and give serious consideration to the messages coming your way. Black as midnight, it’s not surprising to discover that, in many cultures, Raven symbolism and meaning is connected with death and the underworld. At first this meaning may seem dire, but the representation need not be literal. Rather, it’s most likely that something is about to transform your life. Total transformation is usually dramatic. And, so, Raven spirit can help guide you safely through the fray. Remember that Raven consumes the remains of other creatures, giving this bird the additional symbolic value of cleansing. The ancient Greeks trusted in Ravens to carry messages from the Divine, particularly Apollo. This means that the Raven spirit has both night and solar qualities. Working with Raven is a way of boosting your powers of observation and bringing anything that lingers in the shadows into a healthy light. Ravens have a very distinctive voice and a vast vocabulary. They are among the smartest birds in nature, so don’t be surprised if you start finding that your communication skills improve. Raven reminds us to stay true to our voice.
Some Native American tribes call the Raven a ‘secret keeper’. When you have a Raven spirit animal you must not give your promises of confidentiality lightly, nor give away information given to you in trust. Raven has no patience for two-faced dishonesty and calls those with whom it interacts to rise to new levels of honor. People walking the path of the Mysteries are often sought out by Raven spirit. This being prefers to share its knowledge with someone who appreciates the depth and breadth of the Adept, including the challenges that await along that Path. In the sunlight the color of Raven isn’t simply black, but appears to transform into various shades of blue. Raven can also mimic the sounds of other birds. This means that seekers interested in learning the art of shape shifting would do well to seek out Raven for his teachings. No matter what if Raven is your Spirit animal always listen to her warnings respectfully. She is there to protect and guide.
People drawn to the Raven as a totem have a naturally inventive and mischievous air about them. You will never be afraid of darkness… in fact you embrace it with a passion. You can walk, swim, or fly while remaining totally quiet, which is also the time during which you really connect with the Divine and Higher Self. A Raven totem means that you are often the human version of Mercury, delivering information to others. This may be something mundane like guidance in their protection or something deeply spiritual. Raven people often walk the line between the worlds, acting as a bridge. There is no doubt that you will dabble with magic when you walk with Raven. You’ll also find your ability to transform your life in meaningful ways expanding. Raven spirit challenges you, however, to look honestly at yourself and ask, “Never more?” – what hides in the shadows of your being that’s holding you back? Bring that negativity into the light and cry with the Raven, NEVER MORE.
Swan
-
Coloring: White and Black.
-
Origins: Australia and The Northern Hemisphere.
-
Season: Autumn
-
Sabbat: Mabon
-
Element: Water
-
Planet: Venus
-
Deity Association: Aphrodite, Apollo, Brahma, Devi, The Muses, Sarasvati, Venus, and Zeus.
-
Symbolize: Altered States, Dignity, Grace, Healing, Hunches, Intuition, Loyalty, Monogamy, Omens, Silence, Spiritual Divination, Spiritual Evolution, Transformation, and Transitions.
Swan celebrates beauty, culture, art, love, faith, and the depth of the soul. She is sacred to Aphrodite, the goddess of love and brings romance, stimulates fantasy, creativity and allows for true love to blossom making her a lucky totem for soul mates. She lets single individuals know that true love is nearby. Those who are apart from their lovers, she teaches about love through time and space. Couples are blessed with harmony, joy, and longevity. The Swan appears often in folklore and fairy tales, as it is one of the most powerful and oldest animal totems. One common story tells of young maidens who would turn into swans after putting on a magic coat of Swans Skin. However, if someone were to discover this coat of Swans Skin, the maiden would have to either marry the person who found it or do his or her bidding. Tales such as these have come to associate the swan with the fairy realms and magic. In ancient Greece, it was believed that the Swan would sing its most beautiful song just before it died. This has led to the tale of the Swan Song. The Swan may be present to help you become aware of jealousy, insecurity, and self-doubt. Watch out for unnecessary quarreling, unfounded fears, or petty bickering. Sometimes, she can symbolize mourning or lost love, separation from a loved one, end of a relationship or significant change. The Swan is also sacred to the sun god, Apollo who reigned over music. It is said that the Swan has the most beautiful singing voice of all birds as very few have heard it. It is said that she will sing a sweet and beautiful song when someone passes on.
Wren
-
Coloring: White, Light Blown, and Tan.
-
Origins: North America and Eurasia.
-
Season: Summer and Winter
-
Sabbat: Litha, Lammas, and Yule
-
Element: Air
-
Planet: Sun
-
Deity Association: Fionn, Taliesin, and Taranis.
-
Symbolize: Active, Agile, Caring, Charismatic, Creative, Family, Fatherhood, Free-Spirited, Friendly, Industrious, Light-Hearted, Meticulous, Motherhood, Nurturing, Quick-Witted, and Spry.
The little unassuming Wren is considered “The Most Sacred Bird”, and is particularly sacred to Taliesin and Taranis. In European folklore, the Wren is the King of all Birds. Once upon a time, the birds held a contest to decide who would be crowned King. It was decided that whoever could fly the highest would win. The Eagle flew above all the other birds, but as he became tired, the little Wren, who hid in the Eagles feathers, flew out and soared above the Eagle. The cleverness of the Wren triumphed over the strength of the Eagle. To the Druids, the Wren symbolized wisdom and divinity. In the wild, Wrens are very elusive and difficult to see. They generally stay hidden but give themselves away by their cheerful chirping. If a Wren is sighted, it is a sign that blessings of their knowledge will be received in the coming year. To glimpse a creature so small and secretive is a metaphor for finding the elusive Divinity within ourselves. The wren's song was used in divination, the power of strengthening and cleansing.
The Wren animal totem, in Celtic ideology, has come to reflect the endeavor of male and female parents to come together in the rearing of their young. Both wren parents take on an active role in nurturing their offspring. This little wren spirit guide has become synonymous with duality of responsibility that is needed in the home. The Celts also looked to the Wren animal spirit for lessons about life, including stepping outside of typical gender responsibilities and engaging in a previously unprecedented swapping of familial roles.