Cardinals are active songbirds and sing a variety of different melodies. The northern cardinal is so well loved that it has been named the official bird of no fewer than seven U.S. states. Bright red cardinals are easily identified by even casual bird watchers and are often seen frequenting backyards and bird feeders. When foraging elsewhere these birds eat insects, seeds, grain, fruit, and sap. Cardinals, also called “redbirds,” do not migrate and have traditionally been more common in warmer climates. Only males sport the brilliant red plumage for which their species is known.

The albatross is highly proficient in the air. The albatross has the largest wingspan of any bird – up to 11 feet. It usually flies by using strong wind currents. This dynamic soaring method preserves the energy and ensures longer flights. The albatross can reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. It can fly far and long for weeks at a time without a rest. The albatross has a big head with strong, hooked beak. Since the albatross mainly eats slippery prey, its beak has sharp blades on the side to prevent loss of the catch. The albatross has an excellent eyesight and sense of smell.

Most people do not know that through a process known as shamanic journeying they can find a new dimension to their lives. Pursing and finding this new reality only barely touches the grandeur, power, and mystery of the universe. When people enter a shamanic state of consciousness, they often cry tears of ecstasy when undergoing and recounting their experiences. It is almost like a near-death experience (NDE) without going through the trauma of almost losing your life.

The presence of God is within every being, even the smallest being like the ant. In fact, it can communicate the wisdom and power of the universe if we could listen. Animal beings inspire people and as a result are the object of many art forms. Expressions of animal art forms have always been instrumental in the remembering of indigenous values and traditions.

In ancient times, the relationship between animals and humans was fluid, intimate, and interchangeable. Conceptions of animals have always been of central important to indigenous peoples’ beliefs. Animal traits were a prime medium through which core values of culture could find expression. The awareness of the behaviors animals provided the knowledge needed to survive and prosper. Through looking at the role of animals, humans came to understand themselves more fully.

Mature people naturally try to figure out what their personality and life’s purpose is. They may take a Myers-Briggs test, check their horoscope, and even check what their power animal might be. This archetypal connection is about what the animal represents and how it resonates with you personally. Though we may have lost our connection with nature, we still want to connect with our inner self. The best way to do this is with your power animal.

Most people do not realize they have a link to the spirit world through their power animal. Connecting with your power animal naturally connects you with the astral realm. A power animal is like a guardian angel that presents itself in the form of an animal. When we unite with the essence of that power animal, we enter a new energy level and a new consciousness. Once the bond is made, there is a new reality that is very transforming. We begin to formulate a level of awareness in which we feel a oneness with the web of life.

Our power animal finds great joy in working with us and experiencing everyday reality through our physical senses. On the other hand, our power animal knows how to heals and empowers us when needed. They have a special ability to send us “good vibrations.” Therefore, it is very important to take care of this relationship with the utmost respect rather than just casually. This is a deep friendship whereby when you treat your power animal with gratitude, your power animal will naturally be able to impart a deeper insight and love to you.

Although animals do not think, behave, or act as we do, that does not make them any less important. If we are to mature spiritually, we need to acknowledge their right to exist in their own way. They are part of the family of the planet earth and we should try to appreciate their roles and talents. Friendships can and should extend beyond the human species. When we have inter-species communication, amazing things happen.

Since ancient times, our ancestors shared stories of their experience with animals. How they survived and how their harmonic balance with nature guided them to thrive. Indigenous people everywhere revered these lessons which exemplified their values and created the context in which they viewed themselves and the world. Connecting with our power animal was part of living within the natural laws under the guidance of the Creator. Sadly, most of humanity now views animals as a lesser species, convinced by social conditioning that we are superior.

Our connections with the animal kingdom shows itself in a variety of ways. Animals are everywhere including cities, the country, forests, water bodies, the sky, parks, and of course, the zoos. Go to any number of stores and you’ll see animal icons depicted in literature, artwork, jewelry, and on fabric. Fairy tales are filled with stories of animals as are animal metaphors in our daily life. Most athletic teams choose an animal as a mascot because of their extraordinary abilities.

Every day we discipline ourselves to meet whatever life gives us. Learning to inherit the energy and attitude of your power animal will help to adapt and find new creative possibilities to overcome any problem so you not only survive but thrive. We are not limited to just one power animal. Once you learn to connect with one, it becomes a doorway to connect with others. Each one teaches something new. It is natural to work with quite a number of different power animals throughout one’s lifetime.

Finding and understanding your power animal is an individualized process that takes place over time. The more you know about your power animal, the more you can appreciate its companionship. Your power animal has your best interest in mind. Attuned to your needs, it communicates telepathically. By bonding with your power animal, you can maintain a flow of positive energy. The more you are aware of your power animal’s presence, the more beneficial your relationships.

There are various ways to connect with your power animal. For example, indigenous people would go on a vision quest or a shamanic journey. At times, a particular animal can appear in a dream or just literally show up. When we perceive that an animal is reaching out, it is because there is a similar resonance or vibration between the two of you. Instinctively, not only the animals are looking to connect with people, but people are looking for their similarities in the animal world.

When studying animals, we find that each species has unique gifts. Considering there are 10,000 species of birds, 6,400 species of mammals, 925,000 species of insects, 10,700 species of reptiles, 50,000 species of mollusks, 28,000 species of fish, and 8,000 species of amphibians, there are a lot of personalities out there. Each animal has a different combination of traits they would like to share with humanity. We can learn more about life from these willing teachers than all the books in the library.

When you identify your power animal, you will begin to understand yourself more. You will be able to build a unique relationship along with a new look at reality. You may find fresh inspiration, creativity, and support companionship. Power animals provide uncommon wisdom and encouragement. Your connection with your power animal is a dialogue of the highest spiritual order. Indigenous traditions consider animals to be our teachers, our elder brothers and sisters.

Humanity’s interest with animals dates back to pre-history. They have been interwoven into the fabric of religious beliefs of both the Old and the New World. Evidence of humanity’s preoccupation with animals is found throughout Europe, especially in the Mediterranean region, from the cave paintings of southern France to the temple reliefs excavated throughout Egypt. In fact, there was a strong association between gods and animals with some of the first divinities actually being animals.

Power animals willingly offer us their help and they do so whether or not we realize it. Besides being your main guardian, it is a mirror of your soul so it can also be termed your soul animal. Once we recognize their presence and understand their unique abilities, we can tap their special powers and use them to enhance your well-being. If you want help, gently and politely make the request to your power animal. If you have no particular issue, you can ask if your power animal has any advice or message for you.

Humanity’s interest with animals dates back to pre-history. They have been interwoven into the fabric of religious beliefs of both the Old and the New World. Evidence of humanity’s preoccupation with animals is found throughout Europe, especially in the Mediterranean region, from the cave paintings of southern France to the temple excavations throughout Egypt.