If you don't know... Now you know!  Our great state, the largest in the United States, is absolutely STUNNING.  The incredible creatures we get to share the land with even outnumber us.  National Geographic has done an amazing job of showcasing these creatures in "Wild Alaska" so click that play button above and let the documentary speak for itself.

Spirit animals, or power animals, have always been a part of the Shamanic tradition.  They are also called Totems by Native Americans and you can think of them as Earth Angels if you are religious.  Power animals come to us in order to guide us, protect us and/or to simply remind us of our connection to Earth and Spirit.  By watching their energies and behaviors we can learn how to better survive and thrive.  They can be great teachers and I think connecting with them is one of the most fun and exciting ways to learn about our own nature.

So how do you know what your power animal is??  Some of the ways to connect include:

• Simply being aware of the animals around you or any animals that keep coming into your life.
• Getting out into nature and observing any animals around you.
• Writing down your dreams as soon as your wake up and noticing any creatures.
• Set an intention, before a meditation, to meet your power animal and then sit back and relax.

Once your animal comes to you, or you see a sign, learn as much as possible about it!  Use your intuition.  Ask for clarity.  Have fun with the process and remember, they are here to help us navigate through life.  Animals have so many lessons to teach us about our own personal Earth walks.

Have you ever meditated on an animal??  What is YOUR power animal??  Leave a message in the comments below!!

Lots of Love Yogi Bears,
Kinlee Hawkins

"What a man, what a man, what a mighty good man!!"  Paramahansa Yogananda was an incredibly dedicated man... To yoga and to SPIRIT.  This beautiful documentary tells the story of his search for a teacher in India and his epic journey into the heart of many Americans.  He was a pioneer of yoga in the West and initiated more than 100,000 students into his Self-Realization Felowship, teaching Kriya Yoga (the path of meditation) to anyone who wanted to learn.

I had the opportunity to watch this movie, thanks to Heart Stream Yoga in Fairbanks, but you can also purchase the DVD, organize a screening in your community or find it on Netflix.  I would recommend organizing a screening, if possible, because you will end up meeting so many people in your community who practice yoga and many who do not.  Yogananda said, "The happiness of one's own heart alone cannot satisfy the soul; one must try to include, as necessary to one's own happiness, the happiness of others."   The soundtrack is also AWESOME.  Last but not lease, if you'd like to listen to some of his lectures for free, HERE are lots for some heart-centered inspiration!

"Practice meditation.  You'll find that you are carrying within your heart a portable paradise."  Yogananda

Stay inspired and stay warm!
The Alaskan Yogi