Alligator (Crocodile) Power Animal
Having walked the path of Shamanism for some time, there are many nature allies that I have been fortunate to have deep relationship with, as well as some that have connected for a short period, and many more that only momentarily I have come into contact with as moved through my journey. Alligator (and crocodile) is amongst the very first that became one of my beloveds.
Contrary to how I make it sound, nature allies and sacred items are often a total mystery to me. I can never quite get the fullness of their energy. Receiving the fullness of teachings from a power animal, usually comes from years of service and commitment to your connection practice to that ally, and that doesn’t leave much time for other allies. I am more like a butterfly, gently floating from one medicine to another, depending on where the energy currents take me and whose calling is the strongest.
So, even as I write this, much of alligator’s medicine is still an enigma to me, and that’s okay as I recognise my tiny human mind cannot possibly fathom the intelligence of Mother Earth and the Cosmos. What I can do however is explore my experience of Alligator Power Animal medicine so I can share the top three qualities this fierce animal has supported me with:
1. Ancestral Wisdom
Alligators have been around since dinosaurs roamed the earth. They are ancient beings deeply connected to the waters of Mother Earth, thus holding the West Gate of the Medicine Wheel whose element is Water. The sacred element of Water itself holds lots of different properties and qualities, in particular Alligator speaks to us of the waters of life - our blood. Alligator is an ancient ancestral being on this planet, helping us to learn and bring balance to our own ancestral origins.
2. Protects Boundaries
Alligators (and Crocodiles) are boundary predators, meaning they wait patiently and very still, along the edges of lakes, estuaries, and rivers waiting for prey. Unlike other predators who chase, alligator presents with stillness and steadiness, knowing when is the right time for action. In this was alligator helps to protect our energetic boundaries, keeping a watchful eye and immediately acting when needed.
3. Decisive Action
Alligator medicine can help us to know when is the right time to strike, perhaps even bringing the element of surprise. Alligator helps us to be patient, to feel into when the most opportune moment, and to take action with confidence. Alligators are able to sense the shifts of Water, helping us to move away from being swept up in other’s currents.
As we are beginning to journey into the second module of our Shamanic Herbalism Apprenticeship, where we are entering into the Gate of the West, the sacred element of Water, honouring Ancestors, with the support of the Willow Tree, Mugwort & Cacao, these are the top three teachings Alligator has been speaking with me about. If you would like to learn more about Shamanism and learning from Mother Earth and our Relations, then check out my upcoming events and the School of Shamanic Herbalism.