What is the power animal?

According to Shamanism, the power animal, or totem, is an archetype that represents a certain set of attributes, and can be used as a tool to acquire greater power, wisdom, patience or whatever is necessary at a certain time in your life.

The power animal works as a guide, a spirit that guards and protects you in your wildest sense, that is, aligned with your natural essence. It does not follow patterns, does not limit its action, enjoys abundance and acts according to its instinct.

In this way, it helps you break toxic patterns, broaden your horizons, realize and immerse yourself in universal abundance, and listen more to your own instincts instead of rationalizing every step of your life in ways that sabotage yourself and betray your essence.

Understand what Shamanism is, power animals, how to discover and use yours and more!

Shamanism and power animals

Many people confuse Shamanism with some kind of indigenous religion, but it's not quite like that. Of course there are Pajés who are Shamans, but it's not a rule. In the same way, there are Shamans in the most diverse continents and among multiple peoples.

Shamanism is a way to connect with the power of the Sacred that exists in all places and creatures, nature being a powerful tool for this connection. It deals with the spiritual, connecting energetically through various means, including ayahuasca, snuff and other preparations. Understand better how it works.

Origin of Shamanism

With traces of rites that originated 50 thousand years ago, Shamanism left its marks in Africa, Australia, Indonesia, Siberia, England, Patagonia and, of course, in the Americas. All the knowledge of the Shamans was passed on verbally, also maintaining the traditions of the peoples they represented.

Figures of authority, the Shamans guard the primordial knowledge of the connection between nature and man - an interdependent part of it -, helping man to rediscover himself as a creature, as well as a creator. They play the role of a bridge between the material and the immaterial, teaching ways of becoming master of oneself.

Nature and Shamanism

The relationship between Shamanism and nature is almost symbiotic, that is, one depends on the other to continue. On one hand, nature is benefited by Shamanism, in the form of respect, care and preservation. On the other hand, through Shamanism and nature, the human being finds ways to foster his development.

And we are not talking here about material development, but spiritual. Of course man needs land, food, wood, metal, water and other natural resources to survive, but here, we refer to something more sublime. Like a collective consciousness that leads to self-knowledge and growth as a whole, in a connection with the All.

Goals of Shamanism

Shamanism is not exactly a religion, that is, it does not aim to connect with a superior entity. In fact, it has as its core the reconnection with yourself and with nature. It is a philosophy of life that uses the appreciation and use of nature to reconnect with your own essence.

There is also a strong connection with ancestry and nature spirits, either sacred plants or animals, often considered guides or protectors - also called power animals.

Shamanic knowledge is passed down through generations orally and endures to this day, with its preparations and ancestral wisdom, from nature and mythical creatures or archetypes.

Fundamentals of Shamanism power animals

Power animals are one of the best known points of Shamanism, being defined as wild spirits that offer protection throughout life. Each one is unique to each person, staying by their side from the moment of birth. They are considered as spirits or energies that contain the characteristics of the personality of the one they accompany.

The power animal is considered an archetypal representation of these characteristics, leading one to strengthen certain traits and seek ways to work on others, in search of balance. It can spend a lifetime without being known, but whenever the person sees a real representation of it (an actual animal, in flesh and blood), they will feel a deep connection with its figure.

Get a better understanding of these spiritual companions, their importance, how to discover and connect with them, and more!

How important is the power animal?

The power animal can lead you to reconnect with your purpose, your essence. Many times people end up losing themselves throughout life, worrying about things that are apparently very important, but which, deep down, are just tools. What is essential, fundamental, ends up forgotten, buried in mechanized tasks.

Remembering that your essence is the one corresponding to your power animal can help you turn back to yourself, to the true self, and get your life moving towards your purpose again. Also, if it seeks to connect with you through signs, it may be showing you some needed change in your life, or pointing the way you should go, as well as showing you the detour taken.

How do I find out my power animal?

Self-knowledge is key, because the more you understand your qualities and defects, the closer you get to connecting with your power animal, which also has specific characteristics. So, seeking ways to understand your automatic thoughts, fears, blockages, pleasures and loves, can be a way to get closer to your essence.

Another possible way is through shamanic rituals or even meditation. This can be done individually or in a meditation guided by an experienced and trusted Shaman.

On the internet you can find some guided meditations as well, which can serve as an option. Remember to listen to the whole audio first, and then actually meditate, in order to check if you agree with all the steps, which also applies to any guided meditation.

What are the possible revelations of the power animal?

Your power animal can show you aspects of your personality that are submerged in decades of social conditioning. Finding your guide opens the door to better understanding yourself and growing as a human being, becoming more integrated with what is Sacred in your personal conception.

It can also help you find paths in a given situation, if you allow yourself to listen to your intuition. Because it is instinctively adaptable and finds the paths as no human being could do, your power animal shows you the best possibilities for solutions and growth, according to your personality.

How do I use my power animal?

First of all, you don't use the power animal, but rather you work alongside it. It is important to point out that it is a wild spirit guide, and not a working instrument. With this in mind, just remember that you are connected, even if you are not aware of it. In this way, there is a way to potentiate its action in situations of need.

The first way is through daily meditation, seeking to reconnect with your essence, your power animal. In addition, when you process your thoughts and feelings, you are also reconnecting. In times of danger, or when you need some kind of support, you can also call on its presence, mentally or in the form of a ritual.

Other definitions of power animal

According to Shamanism, there are also other animals that can accompany people throughout life. They highlight specific situations and aim to help in these aspects, bringing individuals to the light of consciousness and working for their growth and development. Learn about them.

Shadow animal

When we speak of shadow, we are not referring to something bad, but simply something that is not under the light, whose existence is unknown. In other words, they are unconscious aspects that can influence your actions, which are represented by the shadow animal.

It should be sought with wisdom and support, as it can highlight hidden traumas, repetitive dysfunctional thoughts, and painful memories. As fundamental as it is to deal with these situations, one should not do so without the support of a Shaman or even a psychologist, who can help deal with these shadows.

Winged animal

The winged power animal has the function of taking care of your spiritual development, helping to direct your efforts in the right direction. It is the greatest ally in this search for reconnection with the Self, but in a much broader and more intense way.

In moments of difficulty, he knows that he needs to allow you to suffer the pain in order for you to learn how to overcome it, focusing your efforts on your development. Likewise, in joyful moments, the winged animal will be there, motivating and encouraging you to enjoy this presence of life and gratitude.

Golden animal

Linked to ancestry, the golden power animal carries all the knowledge, experience, sufferings and joys of your ancestors. That is, of your parents, your grandparents, great-grandparents and so on.

On the other hand, it also brings the karmic weight of those who came before you, and the propensity to do things that are not in accordance with your current way of life. So, in any case, it is fundamental to have attention and care about your golden animal.

Animal totem

While the golden power animal is related to ancestry, the totem connects you with all of humanity. It shows that you are part of the whole and that the whole resides in you. Also called a mystical animal, it is considered the representation of a collective consciousness, which directs and expands the energy of the universe in and through you.

Symbology of some power animals

According to Shamanism, each power animal is linked to a different type of medicine. In other words, it refers to certain characteristics that can be invoked, when looking for them in cases of need. Learn what is the medicine or characteristics of each of these archetypes or spiritual guides.

Bee

Related to hard and continuous work, bees are power animals connected to communicative and hardworking people. They are those who love what they do and are nourished by their own efforts, helping everyone around them to grow as well.

Eagle

The eagle refers to the ability to see beyond and see things as they really are. It is the end of illusion, showing the raw reality, even if it is not the most appropriate. This power animal is also related to a practical person, who knows how to determine and fight for a goal.

Moose

Calm, resilient, and patient, the elk is the power animal associated with tranquility and perseverance. Sociable, they seek to bond with others like themselves or those they feel they can trust. Honest, they are born leaders.

Spider

Spiders represent creativity, patience, resilience and opening paths. In addition, they are able to help see the connections between diverse situations, helping to realize goals into reality.

Whale

The whale is the power animal related to ancestry and can contain in itself all the wisdom of the universe. It is related to what is subconscious or even unconscious, helping to heal old wounds.

Hummingbird

The hummingbird is associated with lightness, grace and speed. It is also linked to joy and health, as well as love. In a gentle way, it conquers its goals, always observing all possibilities.

Butterfly

The great characteristic of the butterfly is its capacity for transmutation, the passage from the gross, which crawls, to the subtle, light and that rises to the sky. Transforming itself or transforming others is its main asset.

Bitch

Good humored, strong and determined, the goat is associated with new achievements and especially with teamwork. This power animal represents the ability to react to different stimuli, always in search of a common goal.

Puppy

There's no better adjective for a dog than loving. Loyalty, strength, empathy, and trustworthiness sediment the definition of this power animal. Additionally, puppies are protective and enjoy freedom.

Beaver

Adaptability and persistence define the beaver as a power animal. Even if it doesn't have the right tools, it is capable of building an empire without ever giving up. It can live well in any environment and is great at teamwork.

Camel

Resistance and resilience may be the camel's main attributes. He can go through life's difficulties, even what would be unbearable for the other, with tranquility and persistence. Camels know that all the essence of life is always present.

Horse

The horse, as an animal of power, is related to resistance, freedom, beauty and hard work. Connected to the earth, the horse has a strong connection with the idea of power and grace, strength and delicacy, which act in a complementary way and coexist in the same creature.

Cobra

The snake brings the power of healing, transformation and adaptation. It is intuition empowered, like a link between heaven and earth. Sensuality, regeneration and strength are also attached to this power animal.

Rabbit

It is impossible to talk about rabbit and not think of prosperity and abundance. Abundance is present in his archetype, attracting to the person who has him as a power animal. Speed and intelligence are the tools to achieve your dreams.

Owl

Universal symbol of wisdom, as a power animal, the owl is related to magic and everything that is not exposed to light. Mysteries do not exist for it, for it can see even better in darkness.

Elephant

Strength, confidence and ancestry represent the elephant as an animal of power. It can also keep the events of the earth and natural knowledge in its memory, without fear of the new or the past.

Ant

With a strong sense of community, the ant is a reminder of hard work and tirelessness, and a strength that is disproportionate and far greater than it appears. Tough, patient, and persistent, this power animal is full of courage and dedication.

Seagull

The seagull is a power animal that represents amplitude, freedom and grace. Extremely adaptable, it does not let itself be overwhelmed by small difficulties and can transit in different worlds without harming itself.

Cat

Thinking of a cat and not associating it with elements such as magic, intuition, delicacy and precision is something really complicated. Quick and independent, they value freedom and adapt to any situation.

Hawkeye

Impetuous, strong and perceptive, the hawk is a power animal with a greater capacity to observe what is happening and react quickly, coldly and calculatedly. It spares no effort and can wait quietly until it conquers its goal.

Giraffe

The giraffe is the symbol of the connection between what is divine and the earth. The four legs are the stability, the matter and the solidification. Its long neck is considered the channel that takes it to the heights, to the meeting with the Sacred.

Dolphin

Intelligence, persistence, ability to learn easily and teamwork are the main characteristics of the dolphin as a power animal. Cheerful, they teach you to go deeper to discover your potential.

Gorilla

Strength, persistence and resistance mark the gorilla, being a power animal also associated to stubbornness, given its capacity to fight for what it wants. Focused on the family, it is protective and even territorial, without allowing too much proximity.

Alligator

Turning its strength to survival, the alligator can use its aggression to get what it wants. This power animal may seem quiet and peaceful, but it is always ready to act when needed.

Lizard

The lizard's power of adaptation is especially great, and it can be considered the symbol of the transition between water and soil, cold and heat, between heaven and earth. In other words, it represents the conscious journey towards the Sacred.

Lion

Representing strength, protection, family and determination, the lion power animal is one of the best known. Who has it as a company, tends to be a good leader, admired and respected by all.

Dragonfly

For Shamanism, the dragonfly represents the lightness that one should have when facing life situations. It can also be interpreted as an element of transition, passing through several phases until it reaches the sky.

Leopard

Usually, those who have the leopard as a power animal have a firm but calm presence everywhere they go. Protective, independent and calm, they are animals that take care of their own like no other.

Wolf

The wolf, as a power animal, refers to the connection with the primitive, with its wilder and more natural side. He is explorer and sometimes gets lonely, but nobody messes with his pack, because he is always attentive. Extremely protective with his own, he brings strength and agility.

Bat

Resilience and the ability to find his place in the world are the bat's main characteristics. Even in the darkest moments, he continues on his way, never giving up.

Fox

Smart, quick and cunning, foxes are not fooled and are always one step ahead when it comes to planning. Subtle, they use their intuition combined with agile thinking to make the best decisions.

Jaguar

The jaguar is related to healing, being the power animal related to protection. Fierce, it does everything to keep danger away from its protected ones. At the same time, it is silent, fast and careful.

Panther

To have a panther as a power animal is to be in connection with the moon, with the feminine. Courageous and instinctive, it helps you deal with your shadows and traumas, eliminating fear and other things that may be blocking you.

Puma

Speed, whether of reasoning or physically, is the main word of this power animal. The puma is also a symbol of endurance and adaptation to the ups and downs of life, through a unique determination.

Toad

Who has the frog as a power animal knows what it is to be confused and wronged, being more resilient than most people. As much as it appears to be robust, inside, there is delicacy and transformation, just waiting for the right time to emerge.

Tiger

Those who count on the tiger as a power animal can consider themselves brave, strong and sometimes even a little temperamental. This is an animal that destroys any negative energy nearby, keeping its aura balanced.

Bear

Outgoing, cheerful, playful and wise, the bear is a special power animal. This is because, despite its outgoing qualities, it can be fierce with those who want to harm it or its own.

Vulture

There is no power animal with more strength to drive away obsessors and evil energies than the vulture. Quick and with good team skills, he is always around, driving away any hint of negativity.

Zebra

In a dichotomous view, the zebra represents exactly the balance between good and evil. It knows that both frequencies exist and moves between them. Strong, respectable and cheerful, it is the power animal of extroverts.

How can the power animal be used in everyday life?

On a daily basis, you can pray for your power animal, attracting its positive qualities for life's challenges. You can also visualize and call its name in times of need and fear. It is a perfect ally to do spells and coordinate efforts for your personal growth.