Talking to Animals and “Animal Speak” by Ted Andrews

When you’re trying to decode animal-delivered spirit messages, figuring out what those little suckers are trying to tell you can be tricky! While there is no single go-to resource–much like even the best dream dictionaries are more a starting point rather than a definitive answer key–having a few books to get you started is helpful.

I was gifted a copy of Animal Speak by Ted Andrews, a classic on interpreting animal signs.  (I’ve recently heard his other book on animal signs is even better, but I don’t own that one so cannot speak to it. So now that one and his Nature Signs book are on Amazon wishlist. Because you know, I needed more stuff on my wishlist!)

Animal Speak does have a nice reference section on our animal friends, but like all the Ted Andrews books, he goes beyond the main subject matter with background material, suggested pathworking activities and even craft projects, wrapping the whole package in a spiritual context. His presentation is eclectic enough to be comfortable for people of many faiths, but his work will especially appeal to those of a shamanic bent.

You don’t have to have a special book, though, to decode animal messages. It’s a convenient place to start for sure! But whatever reference sources you consult, begin learning about the behavior and personality of the animal “talking” to you. Read up on habits, strengths, weaknesses and legends. You can even ask your spirit guides to help you understand by sending relevant information to you.

What you’re seeking is an understanding of how the animal’s behavior, characteristics or traditional associations resonate, particularly around current life situations. There may be one or more animals that stay with you for life, but often creatures come and go from your radar, like friends that cross paths throughout life’s journeys.

One thing I’ve really noticed: once you open up a dialogue, animal messages get louder! Just like people, animals don’t talk much to those who don’t listen much. So if you’d like to explore this fascinating avenue for receiving spirit insight, the place to start is by paying attention. Some quiet time outside, looking and listening and just “being,” will quiet your mind and put you in the right space to connect.

Maybe you can even begin the conversation by greeting a few animals yourself. Just don’t let the neighbors see you. Not that I’m speaking from personal experience or anything. As far as you know. Ha!

Do the animals talk to you?

p.s. If you wonder what some critters are trying to tell you, let us know! The episode of Woo-Woo Wonderful airing on 4/9/14, Josi and I will be covering this topic and we’d be happy to see if we can help. See you then!