Herons

In Ancient Egypt the grey heron (called the Bennu bird which means “rise” or “shine”) is thought to be the inspiration for the Phoenix. The heron was the first living thing to return after the flood of the Nile, and therefore heralded the rebirth of the fertile land. The Bennu also represented the soul of the Sun God. Native Americans considered them lucky and a good omen, and to the Chinese they represented a long and prosperous life.

Swans

Symbolic of fidelity, (because swans mate for life), beauty, and grace, swans are used so often for weddings. They also embody a union of water and air, and are known in Irish and Native American lore as creatures that can travel between the worlds carrying messages. Boat builders used swans as figureheads to bring good luck. They are associated with music, love, purity and the soul.

Geckos

Symbolic of conservation, agility, dreaming, renewal, transformation, observation and perceptiveness, the gecko has the amazing ability to lose its tail to get away from danger and grow another one! Geckos bless the home, and it is considered lucky to have one (or more) in your home.

Snails

Snails represent being at home wherever you are. Their shell is a spiral, symbolizing change and growth. They represent the ideals of small communities in the face of global economies, simplicity and a slower paced life. The “slow food” movement, which supports local agriculture and food traditions, has adopted the snail as its symbol.

World Egg

The World egg also known as the Serpent’s Egg, or the Druid’s Egg is a potent symbol of the union of masculine and feminine. It depicts the creation of the World from these two aspects of divinity and reminds us that we contain both male and female within us.

Snake

An ancient symbol of transformation revered worldwide, snakes symbolize power and protection (along with dragons), wisdom, rain, and fertility and were sacred to many Goddesses particularly ones associated with death and rebirth. The snake’s graceful movements are evocative of the movement of rivers and streams. In yoga practice, the movement of energy up the spine through the chakras is called the Kundalini Serpent.