Dear reader, as you may know, I have traversed various paths in life before finding my way to ancient teachings and traditions. Today, I wish to recount to you this story that occurred to me at the age of 22, during a stay in Belgium at my aunt's. She was then undergoing additional training and had chosen to return to university to study anthropology.
1 My First Encounter with Shamanism
My first encounter with shamanism was a moment of revelation, an opening to a mystical and fascinating world. While staying at my aunt's in Belgium, in her living room, there was a shamanic drum, an enchanting presence I had never beheld before. Intrigued, I questioned my aunt about this unique object, and she tenderly explained that this drum had been made by her father. This chance encounter awakened an insatiable curiosity in me, and soon, my aunt proposed that I discover my spiritual Guardian Animal. Without hesitation, I immersed myself in this unexpected experience, unaware that it would mark the beginning of an inner journey.
Guided by the hypnotic rhythm of the shamanic drum, I surrendered to a new reality, where the boundaries between the physical and spiritual worlds blurred. There, in an altered state of consciousness, I witnessed the presence of a Guardian Animal, a revelation that resonated deep within my being. Back in ordinary reality, I shared this experience with my aunt, who encouraged me to further explore this sacred connection with my Guardian Animal. Her wisdom-laden advice urged me to research this animal, to honor this spiritual being, to understand it, to venerate it.
This encounter with shamanism, initiated by my aunt, was the starting point of an inner transformation. Unbeknownst to me, this event would shape my destiny, guiding me to unsuspected horizons that would change my life 10 years later when I would meet shamans in the Peruvian Amazon jungle. Each beat of the drum resonates as a reminder, an invitation to continue this journey of self-discovery and of the infinite universe that surrounds us.
2 What is a Guardian Animal among the Hopis?
In Hopi tradition, Guardian Animals are spiritual guides that accompany each individual throughout their life. They are considered messengers of nature, bearers of wisdom and guidance. Like me, during my first encounter with shamanism, the Hopis often discover their totem animals at key moments in their lives, offering valuable advice and teachings.
3 The Difference between Totem and Guardian Animal among the Hopis
Among the Hopis, the distinction between Totem Animal and Guardian Animal is essential. While the Totem Animal is a spiritual messenger that comes to us at particular moments to convey a message or guidance, the Guardian Animal is our constant spiritual ally, protecting and guiding us since our birth. It is the North Star of our soul, always present to light our path through the meanders of existence. It is a deep connection with nature and ancient wisdom, like the one I discovered during my shamanic journeys around the world.
4 Indigenous Belief: The Help and Guidance of Totem and Guardian Animals
In the gentle murmur of the winds and the beating of wings lies the ancestral wisdom of totem animals, bearers of sacred gifts and eternal truths. Each creature of nature is imbued with its unique essence.
The eagle, majestic sovereign of the skies, embodies pure vision and enlightened clairvoyance. Its piercing eyes scan the distant horizon, revealing secrets hidden in the mists of the future. Under its protective wings, we learn to see beyond appearances, to embrace naked truth, and to rise to new heights of consciousness.
The wolf, guardian of ancestral forests, is the living symbol of loyalty and unconditional protection. In the melodious song of its pack, echoes the immutable echo of fraternity and unity. At its side, we learn the art of protecting those dear to us, of watching over vulnerable souls, and of courageously defending the values that animate us.
The fox, an elusive and invisible being that one only encounters if it chooses to reveal itself. It is also the guardian of the medicine of shape-shifting. Its sharp and cunning spirit navigates gracefully through the twists and turns of life, finding creative solutions to the most arduous challenges. With it, we learn to dance with the ebb and flow of destiny, to transform obstacles into opportunities, and to embrace the elusive magic of change.
For the Hopis, connecting with their totem and Guardian Animal is a practice that enables them to find the guidance and strength necessary to weather life's storms, to embrace the eternal cycles of creation, and to walk gracefully on the path of wisdom. Totem and Guardian animals are a gift from the Creator to live in harmony with oneself and others. I invite you to read another article about Coyote medicine and another about Spider Woman.
In the Hopi teachings that I have had the privilege of receiving, I discovered a profound respect for nature and a living connection with the spiritual forces that surround us. Totem animals play an essential role in this connection, reminding us of our place in the universe and guiding us on the path of wisdom and balance. Whether you seek to deepen your connection with nature, I invite you to explore further these teachings on my website. The ancient wisdom of the Hopis is there to guide you on your spiritual journey.
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