However, it is not like that for everyone. It may be because it is your spirit animal. Often, you have a connection with a certain animal you appreciate its traits and understand its nature. Hence, it is also referred to as a power animal. It is further believed that the animal can bind with an individual spiritually, in more personal ways at certain times, to help them complete some task, achieve a goal, or find the right direction. Native American Culture and Totem AnimalsĪccording to various Native American cultures, a totem animal is a spirit guide that stays with us for all our life. Alexie in Seattle at a book reading where she got his autograph and a picture taken together.Just like people change with age and experience, our spirit animals can also change depending on circumstances, or at specific phases in life.
Her favorite Native writers are Leslie Marmon Silko, Louise Erdrich, and Sherman Alexie. Her mom, Lory, is a Tribal artist, and her dad, Todd, is becoming fluent in Salish, a local Tribal language. She has two brothers and two sisters–Brandt, Shana, Hope, and Hunter.
#Spirit animal professional#
Special Thanks: Misty Lynn Ellingburg (Shoalwater Bay) is a student at Seattle Pacific University, majoring in English (concentration Literature) and minoring in Professional Writing. Hayu Masi (Many Thanks) and good luck on the journey. Often, at Powwows, I notice that dancers who wear their Spirit Animal also assume the posture of that animal at times, and in their dancing, they honor their Spirit Animal, and display its wisdom and glory. Or, like the above photograph, you might choose to bead your Spirit Animal and wear it on your regalia if you are a dancer. When I find feathers from my Spirit Animal on my path, I recognize that this is a gift meant to honor and help me on my journey. If it is a bird, you could wear its feathers. To do so, you might wear designs of it on t-shirts. It is important to honor the Spirit Animal who chooses you. This causes me to reevaluate the decisions I am making, and consult an Elder or a mentor for guidance and wisdom. When I see my Spirit Animal nearby, I recognize that it is trying to tell me something. His son is named Tuhwahunnuh, meaning Son of Eagle, and all of his children have been Eagle Spirits.Ī Spirit Animal will often present itself to you during landmark moments in your life.
For instance, my Grandfather was known in my Tribe as The Eagle. Others may be location-specific, such as Salmon for those in a fishing tribe, or Horse for those who live on the plains. Some may require ceremonies to seek out your guide. When listening for your Spirit Animal, it’s important to remember that each Nation has their own beliefs about Spirit Animals, and it is beneficial to consult with an Elder or a cultural leader to discern your own Tribe’s unique viewpoints. The Spirit Animal who chooses you will represent various aspects of yourself, and will serve as a meditative, healing presence as you walk a road of wellness. Rather, the Spirit Animal you are meant to have will choose you. Unlike what google searches or random websites might tell you, it is impossible and cheapening to take a quiz and determine your Spirit Animal. The Spirit Animal is often considered to be a gift sent from the Creator to guide us on life’s journey. Many members of the Native community possess what is known as a Spirit Animal, also called a Spirit Guide, or Animal Totem.