You’ve perhaps felt a deep yearning for guidance at some point. That longing to connect with something larger than yourself. This urge comes when you feel lost or unsure about the direction your life should take. Or rather that period where you struggle with lack of purpose or have difficulty making decisions. At such times, what you want is clarity and a guide to help you forge through life’s ups and downs.
Many people believe in divine powers. In the U.S., about 90% of adults believe in God or another higher power, 54% believe in the biblical God, and 34% believe in other higher powers. Then, there are cultures that are firm believers of spirit animals. These are spiritual guides in animal form, which can offer you wisdom, support, and protection. The trick is identifying your spirit animal and bonding with it. And the result is a more fulfilling life. (1)
This article details how to connect with your spirit animal. Read on for the details.
Before connecting with your spirit animal, it helps to first understand what it is.
Well, it isn’t just a mere animal. It’s a symbol representing a spiritual guide that’s always present to steer you through life’s journey. It can appear in many forms and settings, including your dreams, thoughts, or even in real life.
To note, spirit animals aren’t totems or power animals. A totem animal is usually chosen by a clan or tribe, symbolizing their shared values and beliefs. On the other hand, a power animal is a temporary source of strength or energy that you can call upon in times of challenge. These contrast with a spirit animal because this is a lifelong companion. In other words, it’s a part of your soul from your early to later years.
You can think of your spirit animal as a messenger because it communicates with you through signs and symbols. Or as a teacher because it teaches you valuable lessons about yourself and the world around you and guides you toward your true purpose. It’s also a protector because it shields you from danger.
As an example, the black spider, as a spirit animal, is often associated with mystery and transformation. Its ability to weave intricate webs symbolizes creativity and the interconnectedness of all things. Delving into the black spider spiritual meaning can reveal powerful insights into personal growth and self-discovery.
Identifying your spirit animal
How do you identify your spirit animal? Start by paying attention to animals that make you tick.
For instance, you might have had recurrent dreams about a particular animal, or you naturally feel drawn to a particular one when in meditation. Or you keep noticing the same animal over and over again as you go about your daily errands. All these could be telltale signs from your spirit animal.
Now, suppose you’ve at some point felt a strong pull towards a particular animal. And you feel a sense of connection or kinship with it. This is what’s known as intuition. It’s a powerful indicator of your spirit animal. You can trust your gut when such a compelling pull comes.
You can also use quizzes and research to help you discover your spirit animal. Online quizzes on spirit animal hunting abound. While most of these are designed just for fun, they can be eye-opening regarding what your spirit animal could be. Couple this with in-depth research on animal symbolism. Read books and websites that provide information on such topics. And this can help you narrow down on a particular one.
Spiritual leaders and mentors can also offer tailored guidance on animal symbolism. They’ve got profound knowledge on different spiritual traditions and practices. So, consult them for deeper insights and understanding of your spirit animal.
Remember that this process is subjective. There’s no right or wrong way to do it. You just have to be open to the signs and symbols that your spirit animal sends your way.
Understanding animal symbolism
Each spirit animal has unique meanings and messages. Knowing these can help you tell what they’re trying to communicate.
For instance, the wolf often symbolizes loyalty, strong instincts, and a deep connection to a family and community. On the one hand, the owl is a symbol of intuition, wisdom, and the ability to see with the third eye. In Greek civilization, it was a dominant symbol in cultural expressions. And by now, there’s a broad spectrum of beliefs towards owls. Finally, the bear portrays courage, strength, and the need to stay grounded. (2)
To note, these are but general interpretations. Animal symbolism can get complicated. Thus, it helps to personalize it.
A given animal can have different meanings for different people. Your personal experiences, beliefs, and cultural environment will influence your interpretations. So, take time to reflect. Take notes about your spirit animal. Meditate on its image, asking yourself what it means. Your sixth sense will help reveal the special message it has for you.
Deepening the connection
Bonding with your spirit animal lets you receive its guidance and wisdom unhindered. You can deepen the connection in the following ways:
Meditation and visualization
Find a quiet place to sit with your eyes closed as you take deep breaths. Visualize your spirit animal. Think about it as it moves with grace and power in its natural habitat. See it approach you and feel its energy. Start speaking to it silently and ask it for guidance and support. Savor in the responses.
You can also use meditation apps to enhance your sessions. Calm is the most liked meditation app, totaling 5.26 million downloads as of 2020, followed by Headspace at 2.08 million downloads. (3)
Spend time in nature
Spirit animals live in nature. So, spending time there lets you connect with your spirit animal more intimately.
Take walks in the forest. Lie by the river. Hike the mountains. Consider the animals around you, checking their behavior and movements. Observe how they engage with the environment. These habits can give you insight into your own spirit animal.
Creative expression
It helps to creatively express your connection with your spirit animal. Draw its image or paint it. Write poems or stories about it. Sing and dance to express its energy. These expressive acts let you tap into the wisdom and power of your spirit animal.
Respect and gratitude
Show sincere respect to your spirit animal. Give thanks for its protection and leadership. You may want to build a shrine or altar where you can say prayers, meditate, or offer it gifts.
Deepening your bond with your spirit animal exposes you to abundant wisdom and leadership.
Conclusion
Your spirit animal is a spiritual guide that leads you wisely through life’s twists and turns. Identify yours through the strategies outlined herein and deepen the bond. Explore more education material on communicating with animals directly, shamanism, and other spiritual practices. Get into this for the long term for maximum benefit.
