Once when I was taking a mediumship development class, the teacher gave me a long, penetrating look. That’s always a bit weird. Spinach in my teeth? Someone doing “bunny ears” behind my head? WHAT?

She took a deep breath, pointed at me and said, “You must always bring an animal through from the Other Side for whomever you’re linking to….”

I’m down with that. As a passionate animal lover, I love the energy they bring to our lives. Animals have their own wisdom and connection to the worlds. Even after they cross, they continue to impact our life. I wrote about this here.

There’s a stepped-up version of this, too: your Spirit Animal (sometimes called “Power Animal”).

I’ve discussed how each of us has several Spirit Guides at our disposal. These are entities who were once human and are available to help us navigate the ups and downs of life. Their 10,000 foot view of the Earth experience gives them a unique understanding of what we go through, and thus, some pretty kick-ass help.

A Spirit Animal guides us by way of their nature-based qualities and characteristics. Learning to tap into their presence will provide some surprising insights into our problems.

Like human Spirit Guides, you may have several Spirit Animals who come through during your time here. It all depends on what you need. Right now, I’m feeling the power of Bear: a creature who is confident, grounded and whose tall, fearless stance denotes leadership.

A friend of mine is seeing Hummingbirds everywhere, both in pictures and in real life. Clearly, she is being told to stay light right now – to trust that there is more going on, just like the rapid beating of the wings you can’t see.

If you’d like to meet your own Spirit Critter, here’s a great meditation.

Start by taking several deep breaths, relaxing more and more with each one. Envision a pillar of white light coming down from the Universe and filling your spine with its healing, protective power. Ask for the protection of any entity of your choice: Jesus, St. Francis, the Great Spirit – whatever feels right.

Now, imagine yourself walking through a beautiful forest. Really see the trees and greenery, hear the birds. Stay relaxed and don’t force this.

You hear the sound of a stream in the distance. Walk towards it. When you arrive, look around to see a gorgeous clearing all around you. The stream runs through it, the ground is comfortable. Take a seat and just relax.

Now, invite your Spirit Animal to join you in this sacred space.

This is a warm, protected place that only you and your Spirit Animal may inhabit; nothing can hurt either of you here. Listen and observe as your animal draws near. What do you hear, smell, see, experience? What animal is entering the clearing? Keep in mind, it might be a bird or an insect, like a butterfly. It doesn’t have to have fur, fins or claws.

After a few moments, ask your Spirit Animal a question(s). Go with what you get: a feeling, a word or phrase. Do you feel different in any way? This is the energy passing from them to you.

Once he/she has answered your question, feel free to spend some time bonding or playing with your Spirit Animal. There’s no rush, because you may return to this glade at any time in the future.

When you feel ready, thank your animal for coming forward. Now, retrace your steps back through the glade. Take more deep breaths, feeling yourself gradually returning to the “here and now.” Open your eyes.

After you’ve met your Spirit Animal, you may want to keep a reminder of them nearby. A photo or statue is a great way to keep their influence nearby, and allow their energy to infuse your daily life.

PS – And just because this STILL makes me laugh, here’s a revisit of the Ultimate Power Animal: Honey Badger!