It
is believed that each of us is born with 9 animals who bring teachings
and messages for greater understanding and insights for our benefit throughout
our lifetime. Two of those animals are permanent and never leave us; they
are our primary totems — sometimes called Power Animals. We usually know
these animals by instinct because we are especially attracted to them throughout
our lives. They are not necessarily exotic animals, but can be anything
from the animal, bird or reptile families. Sometimes we may even dream
about them.
One walks on the left to guard and guide the feminine side of our energies; the other walks on our right to guard and guide the masculine characteristics. Those born with a female totem on the right, and a male totem on the left are born with a special kind of energy balance and usually have very important Spirit work to do in their lifetime.
To discover the remaining 7 totems, we should read and learn as much about animals and their physical characteristics as we can. An excellent book for this is Animal-Speak by Ted Andrews, and there are more such books coming on the market every day. We can also discover these animals by doing the Totem Card Spread given in the Medicine Cards by Jamie Sams and David Carson. Psychics, and people who do healing and special work with animals, and others who have a good understanding of animal energies should also be able to help. Those who meditate can ask for the animals to show themselves during meditations, and identify themselves as totems.
Walk in peace and balance.
