Tirza Schaefer | Power Animal Cat

Cat

I have loved animals as far back as I can remember. I played with my "imaginary" animal friend as a child, not knowing at the time what a power animal was. I had vivid dreams and visions throughout my life. I also felt drawn to different animals at different times in my life and when I found out about power or spirit animals, I finally understood why. Reading up on those animals and then going on shamanic journeys and meditations afforded me the entry point into the world of animals on a spiritual level. The reason I prefer the term power animal to spirit animal is simply because it feels more grounded and manifested to me. You are, of course, welcome to use whatever term you like; power animal, spirit animal, animal guide...You choose. The important thing is to have a strong, loving connection and to trust and ask your animal to teach you and share its wisdom with you.

Independence

Today’s power animal is the cat. I personally love cats and have grown up with them. We currently have an Arabian Mau called Taani, which is Hindi for praise and gratitude. We thought it was a great name, because she is a child of the Ancient Egyptian goddess Bastet, and we are so happy and thankful to have her in our family. Life hasn’t been the same since she joined us in April, flying in all the way from Dubai to be with us. And having known so many cats in my life, I must say, she is unlike any other cat I’ve ever met previously. In a good way; a sacred way.

Cats have great healing powers and teach us independence and love all at the same time. They create a perfect balance between staying true to themselves and being part of a whole, in our case, this whole is our family. Taani fits in perfectly. But, of course, you don’t have to own a cat to have Cat as your power animal. Cat can traipse along silently on her soft paws in many ways, be it in visions, dreams, in the media or in the neighbourhood.

However Cat appears in your life, She has a profound message for you and imparts a lot of knowledge and teaching. Get to know cats, their bodies and mannerisms, instincts, behaviour and biological stats. Watch documentaries and read up online. The more you know about the animal, the more you will be able to relate and receive Her teachings.

As mentioned above, Cat calls us to find a balance between independence and time of togetherness. She invites you to explore the unknown. Be adventurous and get out of your comfort zone.

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Perfect Balance

In general, Cat stands for a balanced relationship between seeming opposites like light and dark, known and unknown, inner and outer world, the conscious and subconscious, and so forth. She teaches us to have a relaxed relationship with ourselves and not sweat the small stuff.

Cat can also come to you to remind you to relax and strengthen your body. Do some stretching, yoga or Thai Chi exercises. That is right up Cat’s alley. She moves with graceful gate, so dancing is definitely on the list of Her chosen forms of expression.

In Ancient Egypt, the goddess Bastet was celebrated once a year by a great carnival-like festivity. People were partying in the streets and they also had leave to have sexual encounters with strangers. During this time, it was not considered to be cheating on your spouse, but was considered a sacred act to honour the goddess. If a child was conceived during that time, it was seen as a great blessing.

Therefore, Cat also stands for sexuality and sensuality. Get familiar with your own body and learn to indulge in sensual pleasures. Explore your sexuality and let go of any inhibitions on your own or with a partner you trust and can express yourself with freely.

Cat also supports you in tackling issues with patience, observation, quiet and waiting for the right timing. This way you can harness your energy much more efficiently and have it at your disposal when the time for action has come.

In relationships, Cat teaches us to enjoy togetherness without giving up yourself and losing yourself in the process. Cat, although loving company, is fiercely independent and will not stand any pressure or force into what She doesn’t want. She retains her free spirit throughout and is still able to shower love and affection without holding back on those She loves.