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Shamanism & Spirituality

Power animals: totem animals in shamanism

Warren Shanti
17/05/2020
A wolf, power animal in the shamanic tradition

Today, I’m talking to you about power animals. They are often known as totem animals, but the totem is only their representation sculpted in wood. Power animals, on the other hand, are living spirits that help us, guide us, accompany us, and intervene when we call upon them.

The essentials

  • Power animals are living spirits; the totem is only their sculpture.
  • According to Siberian shamanism, we have two: one on the father’s side, one on the mother’s side.
  • Once met, they do not change until the end of our incarnation.
  • Other animal-shaped allied spirits can help us occasionally.
  • They protect us, especially during shamanic journeys.

They already know you

Just because you don’t know your power animals doesn’t mean they don’t know you. They are waiting for only one thing: to meet you so they can connect with you and help you. Even if you don’t see them, they are there. To meet them, you just need to set the intention and be attentive to the signs.

How many power animals do we have?

According to Siberian shamanism, we have two power animals: one on the father’s side, the other on the mother’s side. They can change appearance: seem softer or fiercer, larger or smaller. But once met, they never change. If your power animals are the tiger and the snake, they will accompany you until the end of this incarnation.

The allied spirits

We can also have other animal-shaped allied spirits, who help us accomplish particular tasks, or even accomplish them for us. Some remain present for a longer or shorter time, then make way for others.

How do they help us?

Power animals guide and protect us, especially during shamanic journeys, these inner journeys in a trance state. They can also help us at any time: we can invoke them, connect with them, and immerse ourselves in their unique qualities, which strengthens our energetic defenses. Reconnecting with your power animals means finding a part of the power buried within yourself.

Frequently asked questions

What’s the difference between a totem animal and a power animal?

The totem is the sculpted representation of the animal. The power animal is the living spirit that accompanies us.

How to meet your power animal?

By setting the intention to meet it and remaining attentive to the signs. The shamanic journey is also a privileged way to get in touch with it.

And you, do you know your power animals? To go further, discover the three invisible worlds where these spirits live.

If this topic resonates with you, discover the Soul Sanctuary retreat, a week blending handpan, shamanic practices, presence, and introspection.

We are One. One love.

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Portrait of Warren Shanti

Warren Shanti

Handpan / Artist & Teacher

Musician and handpan teacher based in Germany. I guide beginners and experienced players alike, online, in workshops and on retreats.

About me