Connecting the Directions to Canada - The West
For over a decade, I have called on Mother Jaguar with the winds of the West. This is based on the Andean medicine that was taught to me. Jaguar has been my totem since that first journey.
In the Andean mythology, Jaguar is also called Puma and represents Ajaxpacha, the middle world, where the plants, trees and animals live.
The West is the direction of death and letting things that no longer serve us die. It is the space (and time) that cleans and hollows, so that we can receive new energies, hear the voice of spirit and be free to dream a new world.
I have no intention of letting go of Jaguar, however I want to align this medicine to my region of the world.
What spirit animal in Canada (North America) can embody this spirit? There was a hint above….
PUMA!
The Puma, also know as Cougar and Mountain Lion is native to Canada.
The Mountain Lion’s range spans from the Canadian Yukon to the southern Andes in South America and is the most widespread of any large wild terrestrial mammal in the Western Hemisphere.
Sounds like we actually have the same Puma!
According to Medicine Cards by Jamie Sams and David Carson, Mountain Lion medicine is all about leadership! It can be a challenging medicine because with leadership comes responsibility and the need to take charge when others won’t. However, it has nothing to do with making people do what you want – it is about inspiring others.
Mountain Lion medicine is also about being impeccable, and being truthful even when it is uncomfortable. She never hunts for more than she needs and is an outstanding mother.
The similarities with Jaguar medicine from the Andean cosmology that we learnt are definitely there.
When we think about individuals who have inspired and empowered us, they often lead with impeccability and authenticity. They guide things into balance, track for answers and work on all levels. They have empathy, but they know what their truth is and don’t sway when confronted.
I invite you to journey with Mama Puma, and see what message she has for you today.
Oh Great Mountain Lion, peace keeper, pounce gracefully into our circle. Thank you for protecting our medicine space. Show us the way of courageous leadership so that we may empower others always speak our truth.