MERGING WITH ANIMAL TOTEMS

Once one is familiar with their Primary Totem Animals (Power, Theme & Mission), the next step in absorbing the Wisdom & Lessons that they are beside us to teach, is to merge our intent and will with the Totems. Following are the initial three steps in this phase of the process, crucial links in building the connection between we of the Two Legged, and our Animal Allies. Please keep in mind that these are only the preliminary stages of the integration process, as merging with the Totems is a life-long process and one not to be "forced" or rushed. Through studying Nature and Animals (both first-hand through wildlife encounters and learning more about individual creature beings), we gain clearer insight into our inter-connectedness with All Things, as well as better understanding their unique Medicine and Role along the Web of Life. Having clarified that, the following three steps may assist in the beginning of a profound and beautiful journey.

~Akita Mani Yo~ (Observe everything as you Walk) 1.  Welcome & Acknowledgment Much of Earth Medicine is based upon recognition and respect . . . recognition that we are All Related to All Things (Mitakuye Oyasin), and respect for the Great Mystery & the Mother Earth and for all that which ~They~ create, nurture and provide. Respect and reverence are shown to the Animal Spirits in many ways, the first of which is through acknowledging their wisdom and medicine, and then welcoming them into our Sacred Space. Calling the Animal Totem by their ~Medicine Name~ is not only a way of calling upon the power (medicine) of that spirit ally, it is a sign to them of our deep respect.  Yet for those who do not know the Medicine Names of the Animal Spirits, acknowledging them out loud with their commonly "recognized" name is acceptable, so long as reverence and respect are an integral part of the "ceremony."  Also, the Medicine Name of each Animal Totem will differ from tribe to tribe, hence the importance of keeping respect in ones heart while calling upon the spirit ally. An example of this would be for one with Wolf as a Primary Totem.  In the language of the Sioux People, the Medicine Name for Wolf is ~Sunkmanitu Tanka~ (pronounced Shoonkh-man-i-too  Tahn-Kah), while in the Ute language, the Medicine Name is ~Sinapu.~  Yet for one who is not familiar with these names, addressing the Totem as ~Wolf~ (so long as the name is said with reverence) will ultimately still demonstrate proper respect. After the Totem Animals have been called by name, welcome them into your Sacred Space.  Give thanks to them for their Wisdom, and for the Role they fulfill beside you on this current Earthwalk.