I love love love symbolism. There’s something so fun and wonderful about the idea of things meaning more than what meets the eye.

Animal symbolism, in particular, is really fun to me because animals are so transient. You really can’t control when you see them out in the world. It feels so magical when you see a particular animal over and over again!

While it’s all for fun, it can be enjoyable to see if you notice any of these animals that symbolize joy making their presence in your life. Or, perhaps, try incorporating these animals into your life more!

The Symbolism of Animals

We see an animal of some sort every single day. Whether it is seeing our pets, watching a nature movie/show to see majestic animals we might not see around our town or looking at the birds, squirrels and chipmunks running around outside—animals are always crossing our path in some way.

According to Alyson Charles, the author of the book Animal Power,

““For many thousands of years, sacred wisdom traditions have deeply honored the medicine and care that power animals provide to us. Mystics, sages, and shamans throughout the world on every continent have recognized how being consciously aware of what animals are presenting, and what healing properties and wisdom they are bringing forth, can greatly inform our decisions and deeply empower and enhance our direction in life.” -Alyson Charles, Animal Power

All animals have a lesson to teach us and our soul—from the high flying vultures in the sky to the fish that inhabits the depths of our deepest oceans.

 Charles writes,

“Every animal, whether an insect, a mammal, an amphibian, or a bird, possesses energetic healing properties, signature traits, empowering teachings, and messages specifically for our benefit. Animals give us strength, guide us through life, remind us of our own internal power, and are our teachers.”-Alyson Charles

Ways to Use Animal Symbolism

Animal symbolism is a powerful tool that can really help us tap into different feelings or traits—like joy!

“There are many ways we can access the guidance of power animals: through meditation, conversation, observation, shamanic journeying, sacred rituals, and other practices.” Alyson Charles writes.

It is important to note, Charles specifically says to find what method or use of animal symbolism feels most aligning to your intuition and you!

“No matter which honoring method or way feels right to you and your soul when it comes to working with power animals, the most important aspect is keeping these most sacred wisdom tradtions alive.” -Alyson Charles, Animal Power

Check out Charles’ book where for each specific animal she will give what she calls, “Power Practices” to use in relation to that animal. Truthfully, it is a beautiful book and one that is easy to navigate and use!

She also has an Animal Power Deck which I have been using to pull a card that feels aligned to me that day—and it usually is spot on with what I need at that moment! As I am writing this, I drew a card—and realized I serendipitously drew two—one of which was an animal on this very list below, the llama!

Also, if you enjoy podcasts, check out this Sahara Rose’s Highest Self Podcast episode: Connecting With Your Power Animals with Alyson Charles

Listen to the Episode

#1: The Butterfly

#2: The Dolphin

#3: The Elephant

#4: The Hummingbird

#5: The Monkey

#6: The Ladybug

#7: The Llama

#8: The Dragonfly

#9: The Peacock

#10: The Clam

Comment Below: Do you connect with any of these animals? How so?