The concept of a Power Animal is universal to all cultures. Tribal cultures will recognize a Totem for the tribe, one for the clan one belongs to, and one for the family that one is born into.
In the United States, and in other countries, the Tribal and Clan Totem still exists, although it is thought of in a slightly different manner. There are also totems for our adopted cultures, such as clubs or societies which we may belong to, such as the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Loyal Order of Moose, and the Lions Club. Even Christianity, the prevalent religion of this country, has maintained two Totem animals, these being the Fish and the Lamb. Specialized Totems are also seen in organized sports, their names being reflected in the team names. Example: Chicago Bulls, Atlanta Falcons
The next type of Power Animal or Totem is that which is personal for the individual. These Totems are protective spirits which help us in our everyday life. Everyone has such a Totem. Even today most parents give a special protective Power Animal to their children and tell the child that it will be protected over night by that Power Animal. They don't realize that is what they are doing when they give a teddy bear to their little one. We often unconsciously recognize the Power Animal affecting someone, and use terms which give away our unconscious recognition.
Our Heavens/Zodiac include
Animal references (Leo - Scorpio - Cancer - Taurus).
Shamanism
The first item of business for a potential Shaman is to learn to travel in the other worlds, then to discover his Totem or Power Animal. That knowledge is necessary in order to start the long process of learning.
Power Animals are usually a reflection of your deepest self and also represent qualities which you need in this world, but which are often hidden or obscured. A mistake that people often make is to be dissatisfied when they find that their Power Animal is some non-ferocious animal like a mouse.
We tend to think that a mouse is not very powerful - that it is meek and afraid. What they forget is that spirits are not limited to physical reality and that size is irrelevant. Your Power Animal may be a tiny mouse, but in times of need this mouse can and will change its size and deportment to that which is appropriate to the occasion. There is nothing weak of meek about a 500-foot tall mouse!
Your personal Power Animal (as opposed to your family, clan, or tribal spirit) may change several times in your lifetime, depending upon your specific needs. If you are dispirited, your animal is far away from you and needs to be brought back, or a replacement found. When you make your first exploratory journey you are likely to encounter spirits which may represent themselves as being your Totem or Power Animal. If you are already aware of your spirit that spirit may greet you and give you additional power.
All mammals and birds are positive spirits. Any positive spirit may be your Power Animal. Your Power Animal may also be a mythical animal, such as a Unicorn or Pegasus, or even one which does not exist in myth or legend.
Power Animals for Energy Centers
in Your Body Inspired by How to Read Signs and Omens in Everyday Life
by Sarvananda Bluestone (Inner Traditions, 2002).
People throughout history and in every part of the world have relied on power animals or animal totems to give them guidance, healing, and help. You can find out which animals are your special helpers for several important energy centers in your body. These animals can help you stay strong and balanced, healed and focused in these four important areas.
Find out which animals help your Heart, your Throat, your Third Eye, and your Solar Plexus, here: First, find some time when you will not be disturbed. Take a moment to relax, and make an agreement with yourself to let whatever comes to your mind simply be there, without judging.
Close your eyes;
1. First, focus on your heart-center, the area of friendship, love, and intimacy. Put your hand on your chest. Let your chest enjoy and feel the warmth of your hand, and your hand feel and enjoy the warmth of your chest. Now ask for an animal to come to you through your heart. Imagine it. This is your Heart Animal.
2. Now place your hand on your throat, the area of communication. Ask an animal to come to your through your throat. What animal comes to mind? This is your Throat Animal.
3. Now place your hand on your forehead, the area of intuition and creativity. Ask an animal to come to you through your forehead. This is your Third Eye Animal.
4. Now place your hand on the area below your ribs in the center of your body. This is your power center or solar plexus. Ask for an animal to come to you through your solar plexus. This is your Solar Plexus Animal.