The Squirrel, a symbol of Gathering & Playfulness

Squirrel's gifts include ability to solve puzzles, resourcefulness, quick change of direction, storing for the future/planning ahead, balance in giving and receiving, power of rest during times of non-movement, discovery, change avoiding danger by climbing to a higher place, action. 

The idea that there are obstacles which cant be overcome is not part of Squirrel's outlook on life, nor is giving up. Squirrel is an almighty power animal to have any time when you feel you have reached a dead end in your life, or in a situation and ready to give up. We are shown that perseverance and the readiness to try different methods are the keys to success. 

Few, if any, animals are busier than a squirrel during the autumn. They gather enough nuts and seeds to get through the winter and buries them. For us this is not only important on the physical level - it can also mean being as flexible as Squirrel when it comes to allowing and starting change. 

When squirrels prepare for the winter, they gather only what they require. This teaches us the importance of letting go/getting rid of unnecessary physical objects, and also negative beliefs, emotions and memories which limit our faith in love and abundance. We need to lighten our load, physically, mentally and emotionally. 

As busy as these animals are, they always have time to play. Often in between gathering, they start to leap at each other and roll about in the leaves. They also seem to enjoy simply resting on a tree branch, enjoying the peace and quiet. This teaches us that there IS time for everything in life, that the balance between work, play, rest and contemplation is essential to our overall feeling of well being and harmony. We are also taught the balance within the circle of gathering and giving out. Our energy must not be wasted, but conserved for times of need. We are reminded that on our journeys to fulfil our goals, it is vital to make time for play and socialising. 

Ask yourself are you too active, not active enough, too afraid, or hung up on accumulating and collecting. Squirrel people can sometimes be a little erratic, trying to do many things at once. Take the time to stop, listen and to heed your inner self. 

It is probably not by chance (but a synchronicity) that squirrels are found wherever humans live. Perhaps they are here to herald a message for us all, not to give up, not to get stressed, and as mentioned before there IS time for everything in life. Don’t forget to play, no matter what age you are! 

Squirrels are very trusting and are one of the few (wild) animals that will eat out of a person's hand. This symbolises a need to let down your defenses, and to learn to trust more. Trust issues can be present in all aspects of a person's life from personal intimacy to trusting the universe. Because the squirrel is always prepared, if this is your power animal you must realise and remember that you will be taken care of. Building a strong sense of trust where it is missing will compliment the power of this medicine. 

By Ina Woolcott