Lately I have been noticing the different creatures who have been gracing me with their presence as I go about my day. I feel as though whenever I see an animal that I don’t normally see, that there is something more I can take away from this encounter.

Some people call them animal guides or tokens. To me these creatures are teachers, bringing a message to me about what I need to pay attention to in my life.  I have been taking their pictures and pondering their hidden wisdom.

It doesn’t matter really what meaning has been written before about these animals, what matters is the message or the meaning that speaks to me at that time when I meet them.

Sighting these animals evoke that inner wisdom that at other times may be elusive. Projection is a wonderful teacher of the self.

The other day while on my bike ride, I came across a snapping turtle. I was quite intrigued since turtle has often been the way I have seen myself; taking things a little slower than most, not in a rush. But often I have felt some guilt over this and have felt the urge to rush ahead into things as well.

When I looked at this turtle, sitting there on the path in the conservation park, I saw something other than slow: I saw a strong and determined turtle who was going at her own pace. Snapping turtle reminded me to be protective of my own needs and to take things at my own pace. It is not a weakness to go slow, but rather a strength to listen to ones needs first despite the seemingly quick pace of others.

What animals have you encountered with wise messages to self recently? Were you surprised by the message. Did their animal wisdom help you on your journey?

Even if you have not come across a special animal you can still connect to their wisdom. Here is an easy way to call on your own animal guide:

Tell yourself that you will meet an animal who has some wisdom to share with you.  Close your eyes and do some belly breathing to help you relax. Imagine your self outside in nature. Continue to breath in slowly and out slowly. Notice your surroundings, sounds, smells and flora. Allow an animal to come forward into your vision. Take notice of this animal and any traits it has. Watch the animal and wait for direction from it. Allow yourself to wonder about what the animal may want you to know in this moment.

When you are done noticing whatever imagery comes to you, find a picture, (either online or in a magazine) that best represents your special animal guide. Write a few words about your animal to go with the picture. Journal about the messages that came to you during this visualization. Now you may wish to post your picture someplace where you will be reminded of the important wisdom you received.