Animal Totems & Lovely Lions

While on my transformative trip to Sedona, I was told (by multiple – different – therapists) that I have a very interesting (and unique!) connection to lions. It was so strange it was to hear, yet the words felt strikingly familiar. One person suggested that the lion is my totem animal. WTF is that, I wondered (probably out loud knowing me).

Animal totems are often associated with the Native American belief system.  However a connection to animals and their wisdom is found throughout many cultures in the world. Here’s theSilver Lining: animal totems offer an ideal form of psychological and spiritual symbolism to help us better understand our selves and connect more deeply with the earth and nature.

I learned that identification with the attributes of a particular animal can serve as a mirror for reflecting the same qualities within our selves. According to animal totem legend, the animal will choose you (not the other way around.) To find what animal is trying to make itself known to you at this time in your life, try asking:

• Do you repeatedly see the same animal when in nature?
• Do you feel drawn to a certain animal and unable to explain why?
• Does a certain animal frighten or intrigue you?
• Have you been bitten or attacked by a certain animal?
• Have you had a particularly memorable dream about a particular animal?

As for myself, the lion has “appeared” as my personal totem. Naturally, my curiosity about what I am meant to learn from the lion got the better of me. Here goes: the lion represents consistency, courage, energy, family, guardian, protector, loyalty, strength and wisdom (Silver Lining!). The lion asks us to keep an even mind, an overall balance in our lives, and possess sound judgment (things that I try to do every single day!).

When I learned that the lion is primarily a nocturnal animal, I immediately thought “definitely not me” until I learned that the “dark,” or “night” is an ancient symbol for the dream state or the unconscious. Ahhhhh, now we’re talking!

The lion asks us to pay particular attention to our “dreams,” and our “intuition.” The “ferocious” quality of the lion actually represents control, independence, and self confidence.” When the lion appears (in any form) we are reminded to stand tall with dignity, step into our natural birthright of power – and “ferociously” defend whatever is closest to our heart (with courage and faith.) Perhaps that is why a good ROAAARRR every once in awhile feels so good. Seriously.

What animal seems to be seeking your attention? Have fun with the symbolism that your particular animal totem represents and be open to the animal’s inherent wisdom.