Many of us have a sense of connectedness with the animal kingdom, Ewan Nicholson explains why totems are a natural and age old phenomena.

Totems have always united humans and nature.

According to the dictionary, a totem is a natural object, especially an animal that is assumed as an emblem of family or clan.

The interest in North American Indian cultures in recent times has revealed a tradition of totems that is still practiced today. Many people have felt the power of totems, because there is an underlying connection between people and nature in all cultures and societies. Just because totemism has gone out of practice in many places in the world does not mean that there has not been a history of totems in those countries.

Do you remember having an imaginary friend when you were a child? This may have been your first experience of a spirit guide.

Often children will see imaginary friends when they are lonely or sad. A Spirit Guide comes to remind them that they are not alone. It is when we are in times of need that we will break through the feeling of separation. Just think for a moment about how often ‘other-worldly’ beings appear in our spiritual traditions, and many cultures invoke the guidance and protection of their ancestors, or animal spirits. All these experiences tell us there is a greater oneness to which we belong.