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I’ve been reading “Meditation as Medicine: Activate the Power of Your Natural Healing Force”, a book written by Dr. Dharma Singh Khalsa and Cameron Stauth. I am fascinated by the explanations as to why meditation, specifically breathing techniques, hand/body positions and chanting actually work to allow the body to heal itself.  Dr. Khalsa is both a western trained medical doctor and Kundalini Yogi.   Having lost my father to complications of Azlheimer’s Disease, I am very interested in his work in that area.

So what’s that got to do with a Moose?

According to the book, “Animal Speak”, by Ted Andrews, “In North American native folklore and healing, the Moose is associated with primal feminine energies and the magic of life and death .  Its cycle of power is late fall and early winter – the time of Approaching Shadows. It is one of the most ancient and most unique of the power totems.” 

Seeing a moose in the wild is amazing - the energy they embody is extraordinary. Their colossal antlers grow larger than those of any other antlered animal. Ancient myth calls these antlers ‘The Crown of Courage.’ The antlers are linked to the crown chakra in man. As the antlers grow, the crown chakra opens and widens giving those with this power animal a direct channel to universal knowledge.

The direction of the North makes most of us think of cold winters, ice and snow.  North has been held by many cultures to represent those who have survived the passage of time as North is associated with Winter, the last season before the rebirth of Spring.  From the North we can learn when it’s time to listen to what others have to say and when it is time to hold the floor and say our piece.  As a North Animal, Moose will always give you aspects to consider you may not have seen on your own.   Finally, those who have eeked out an existence in the far north truly understand how to be grateful for each and every blessing that comes their way.

It is probably not coincidental that I finished this painting, which in some respects, I began over three years ago (it is painted over a piece I did in 2010, called “Totem Horse”), now, in early November. The patterns that make up the body of Moose are reminiscent of energy meridians and chakra points. I am learning to be truly grateful for my life. The practice of being thankful teaching me to acknowledge those who have helped me along the way, appreciate where I am now, and move forward with the confidence of one who truly embraces love.

I invite you to spend time with “Northern Exposure”, and allow your brain to begin to find order in the seemingly chaotic patterns. You will “see” things that are particular to you. If you resonate with Moose, perhaps Moose is asking to walk along with you and help you on your journey.

Namaste.