Shamanism
Talking To The Animals
I am often contacted for psychic readings about animals: missing cats, dogs present and past, sick horses and, even that brutal question as to whether it would be kinder to end an ailing animal’s suffering. Today, just such a request came in from a long-standing client, asking me to communicate with her little doggie, Patches.
She needed to know if Patches wanted to continue, or whether he preferred to be released from his physical discomfort and allowed to cross over the Rainbow Bridge. She knew he wasn’t feeling well, and yet, the veterinarians have been unable to diagnose his problem. It’s one of the most heart-wrenching requests I have been faced with in some time.
I sat quietly and envisioned Patches in my mind’s eye. He kept showing me the number 12. Before going further, I contacted Patches’ owner, and asked her the meaning of the 12. He is twelve years old, my client responded. Although the ultimate decision will be my client’s, I felt this was a subliminal message from Patches – his planned life span was to be here for 12 years. Continue reading
Astragalomancy – Divination With Dice
A bone throwing reading I did for a client recently prompted me to go back to some of my old notes on using dice as a divination tool. Using dice to divine is known as Astragalomancy.
Many of my clients are fascinated by some of the unusual items to be found in my bone-throwing divination pouch. I have some interesting pieces, from the original animal bones I was given during my training in this shamanic art, to crystals and other trinkets which all have a special personal meaning to me. Because of the special meaning attached to each item, it often adds extra depth to an interpretation. I also use different types of dice, which I combine with the bone throwing, including the more familiar dice with numbers to some I have with African wildlife images carved into them. Continue reading
Tree Insights
If you told me a month ago that I would have a conversation with a tree, I would most likely not have believed it. Not that I am closed off to such experiences, but rather because I have never had any kind of engagement with nature on this level.
This weekend I was hiking with some friends, and there was a moment when I was separated from them. One of my friends went ahead of me, and the other two lagged behind. We were on a train, so I was confident that we would eventually meet up. So, I appreciated this time to myself for reflection and contemplation.
I sat down and began to meditate. As I did so, I turned my attention to a very large tree that must have been there for hundreds of years. I recalled something that I had channeled in the book I was writing. I recently wrote about how everything has a spirit, including animals and plants. I had not really thought much about this in the past. Most of my spiritual insights have been associated with interactions with angels, spirit guides, and individuals who have passed on. This said, I am certainly open to interacting with the spirit’s of animals and plants. Continue reading
Animals As Healers
Pet owners know about the many benefits of animals in their lives. But what exactly do they give us beyond companionship?
Our ancient ancestors not only loved animals; they revered them. Many of these cultures were shamanic and knew of the psychic properties of all the animals in our world. Today we live in a modern world, but these connections are still there. Animals that we regard as common or even nuisances, such as pigeons, ants, spiders, and even rats, all have lessons to teach us. And we can learn, even as we avoid them.
As with our dreams, it’s a good idea to keep a small journal on the animals you encounter. Think about what each creature means to you personally. Meditate on the way it sounds, moves, and looks. A gray squirrel in a park may give you the idea to become more agile and quick physically, or that you need to start saving money for lean times. No two people will see an animal the same way. Continue reading
Don’t Add Drama To The Chaos In Your Life!
I had a very stressful situation recently, too personal to be written about here, but I can assure you my Italian temper blew up completely due to my frustration. I had to humble myself to people I did not feel comfortable with, and had to set my ego aside entirely.
I felt I had to hit or break something. I took a good box of empty jars and shattered every one of them against a rock outside. The explosive sound of the breaking glass was a source of relief. It is not something I am really proud of doing, but I am only human, and sometimes our more base instincts rise to the surface in this way. I am normally a highly sensitive, compassionate, and spiritual person, but I was not setting much of an example in this case. I had clearly lost it this time. Continue reading
The Ancient Art Of Smudging
There are many effective ways to purify ourselves of old baggage or toxins in our lives. A great place to start is a very ancient art popular among indigenous peoples known as “smudging.” This refers to the burning of sacred or blessed herbs, or grasses to cleanse yourself and your space.
If you are just beginning try burning sage, one of the most popular and fragrant herbs. As you become more adept, you may want to customize your herbal blend. Bundles may be purchased at an esoteric store, or a Native American or natural market, and burned in a vessel of your choice.
Before you start, make sure there are no fire hazards and open a window or two for ventilation. When you light your sage stick, make sure you are only using the leaves and not the other parts. Continue reading
Prairie Dog Wisdom
In Native American tradition the “prairie dog” brings with it a special message of retreat when it crosses our path. In times of stress and over-exertion it reminds us to take some time out, withdraw from our busy modern lives and recharge our batteries.
This is what the prairie dog does when it gets into trouble. It withdraws into the safe depths of the earth, with several escape routes waiting in case of emergency. The prairie dog teaches us to pick our battles carefully. Prairie dog medicine is also symbolic of the opposite. In times when we have become too withdrawn and disconnected from family, friends and the world around us, this magical animal encourages us to reach out to others and join in social activities. Continue reading