lesson 1. Discovering animism/animatism.

[Shanti]

This class is being taught from my perspective based on being an animist/animatist since I was 4 yrs old.
For me, experiencing animism/animatism came long before studying the concept and long before I even knew what the belief was called.
At age 4 I met a grasshopper and my world changed. :)

Now you can see I am using 2 terms, animism and animatism. Both are a philosophy. Neither are a religion. But either can fit into almost any religious belief system.

There are two styles of belief in animism:
One) A belief that natural objects are inhabited by spirits.
Each rock, tree, and cloud may have its own unique spirit. Individuality in spirit as well as in the material world.

Two) All things in nature may be thought of as having the same spirit. The belief here is a ‘part of the whole’ ideals. All are a part of one divine entity. This version of animism was characteristic of many Native American cultures.

In both forms of animism, the spirits are thought of as having identifiable personalities and other characteristics such as gender. A belief in a powerful, mature, or protective, personality. The spirits may be benevolent, malevolent, or neutral. They can be lovable, terrifying, or even mischievous. They can interact with humans and can be pleased or irritated by human actions. As such, people must be concerned about them and will likely try to avoid displeasing them.
"Mother nature" is an example of giving a persona to the concept of nature spirit/s.


The second is Animatism:

It is a belief in a non physical essence or force or power or whatever you want to call it. For those who hold this belief, the power is usually impersonal, unseen, and potentially everywhere. It is neither good nor evil, but it is powerful and dangerous if misused. It is something like electricity or "the force" in the Star Wars movies. This Star wars analogy is commonly used to describe this force, so don’t laugh at me for using it because I already did that!!

Among the Polynesian cultures of the Southern Pacific Ocean, this power is called "mana". For them it is a force that is in all objects, plants, and animals (including people) . Some things or people have more of it than others and can be potentially dangerous. For example, a chief may have so much of it that he must be carried around all of the time. If he were to walk on the ground, some residual amounts of his mana may remain in his footprints to harm ordinary people if they later stepped on them. Volcanoes were thought to have varying amounts of mana and thus they had different levels of the threat as to their ability to destroy.



Both….
Animatism and Animism may seem to be the same thing. In fact both beliefs are often found in the same culture. You can even have the two beliefs combined in one object. To some people, a tree may have a individual spirit and also hold a impersonal force.

The difference, remember, between the two beliefs is that Animatism does not have a personality--it is an impersonal "it" rather than a "he" or "she".

Animism can have gender and/or personality characteristics similar to people.

This philosophy can not be proven nor is there any written rules regarding individual perspectives. Animism and animatism are a personal truth one discovers on their own. If you feel your beloved pet has a spirit of his or her own, no one is going to prove you wrong because its impossible. You have your own feelings and nothing else to tell you what is right or wrong.
This class is not about following any set rules or thoughts placed by another.
What this class is for is to discover concepts placed by others to help us explore what we feel is right for us and to understand ourselves a little more and to share as we go along. There is no right or wrong here. Only following our own hearts.
Dont be cautious about sharing here. Even something you think trivial or sounding goofy is indeed very important. Opening oneself to sharing pieces of your own heart is always a powerful experience for all, even if all doesn't know it. LOL
You also don't have to agree with me or anyone. Its ok because we are all sharing our personal truths. So don't be afraid to say Shanti, I don't believe that for me. :)
We are here to share, not debate nor change opinions. This is animism/animatism...its beyond the physical. Let your heart speak.
Lets share our unique selves and build a rainbow of beauty together.

1) Which do you believe?
Animatism, Animism, or do you combine?

2) Do you use this belief in any magical work, meditations or in any way?

*EXAMPLE: I use/share/invite just the force of fire when I work with fire but I use/share/invite the help of a spirit went I work with a tree.


Have fun!!!


My answers to the above questions:
1) I believe in both animism and animatism. I combine them even in individual objects sometimes. To me, a tree can have a spirit and force/essence. It also may have only one of those. Its all up to the individual tree IMO.
I also believe everything, not just things of nature, but everything has either a spirit, force/essence or both.
I also believe there are different types and strengths of forces and essences and different spirit kind.

2). When I work, depending on what I am doing and if I am working with anything, I sometimes call on a spirit of whatever or I draw in force and/or essence from things.
I live my animism/animatism everyday as i am always feeling my surrounds, touching other existences and acknowledging that we are all here.
I am very, very, animistic and animatistic. :)

[mydnight_temptress]

1) Which do you believe?
Animatism, Animism, or do you combine?
I would say I believe in aspects of both--but have not truelly defined my own belief systems to say on eover the other. But defnately more of a compbined thinking.

2) Do you use this belief in any magical work, meditations or in any way? I have used in meditation where i try to connect to plant life. I call to the plant and concentrate on the plant, the different aspects of the plant. The meditation then comes from me being able to stop everything else going on in my brain at that time.

[Shanti]

1) Which do you believe?
Animatism, Animism, or do you combine?
I would say I believe in aspects of both--but have not truelly defined my own belief systems to say on eover the other. But defnately more of a compbined thinking.

2) Do you use this belief in any magical work, meditations or in any way? I have used in meditation where i try to connect to plant life. I call to the plant and concentrate on the plant, the different aspects of the plant. The meditation then comes from me being able to stop everything else going on in my brain at that time.
Thank you for sharing. :)
May I ask, have plants actually helped your meditation?
Like for me, I have found that plants are extremely supportive of my meditations. They give good steady calm and focus. After awhile when meditating with a plant, I find the meditation to be so effortless its almost as if the plant has joined in and is guiding the whole thing.

Trees I have found to be especially supportive co-meditators. :)
Sometimes it feels to me as if I and the tree have actually become one for a time.

Various flowering plants have given me the wondrous feeling of extreme inner peace and a lightness.

Grass species have gifted my meditations with an upbeat, energetic feeling, but still with that special calm. More like a meditation that reaches farther out.

[mydnight_temptress]

I found that I use trees most. And that's due to the fact that I live in a desert--there are more leaves then flowers :) I can't say for sure if the plant itself has helped the meditation as much as me concentrating on the plant--if that makes sense. I guess I haven't felt the "force" or energy from the plant yet. But meditating is something i need to practice more--so that may come with more practice.

[Shanti]

I found that I use trees most. And that's due to the fact that I live in a desert--there are more leaves then flowers :) I can't say for sure if the plant itself has helped the meditation as much as me concentrating on the plant--if that makes sense. I guess I haven't felt the "force" or energy from the plant yet. But meditating is something i need to practice more--so that may come with more practice.
I have no clue what its like to live in a desert or even close to one.
I imagine its extremely different and unique compared to here in the great lakes region. :)

There is one perspective I have thought of, the plant is helping in providing you with an object you can concentrate on. :)

Thank you again for sharing. If you feel like sharing more at ant time in the future, please never hesitate to toss out thought. Its good food for the mind. :)
"Pass the grapes." :boing::boing::boing:
:)

[ravenscape]

1) Which do you believe?
Animatism, Animism, or do you combine?
I combine, but Animatism feels more comfortable to me, especially in plants or so called inanimate objects.

2) Do you use this belief in any magical work, meditations or in any way?
Mostly in meditations. I do walking meditations at lunch fairly often, and have a few trees I stop and lean against or sit under for a while, trying to experience the world from their perspective. At night, I often use fire/candlelight in meditation, and do try to experience the energy and chemistry of fire.

[Shanti]

1) Which do you believe?
Animatism, Animism, or do you combine?
I combine, but Animatism feels more comfortable to me, especially in plants or so called inanimate objects.

2) Do you use this belief in any magical work, meditations or in any way?
Mostly in meditations. I do walking meditations at lunch fairly often, and have a few trees I stop and lean against or sit under for a while, trying to experience the world from their perspective. At night, I often use fire/candlelight in meditation, and do try to experience the energy and chemistry of fire.
Thank you ravenscape for your sharing.

I love walking meditations.
One of my favorites is in later summer when the wild grass field are so tall that the grasses touch my fingertips as I walk through them. I allow my focus to set itself on just the feeling of that grass brushing my fingertips as I walk. After awhile my awareness is heightened to a level I just don't have when not in a walking meditation and it is so relaxing and fulfilling. Its a wonderful way to spend part of a summer afternoon. :)

[~NightFire~]

I just thought that I'd pop in & say; I'm going to be offline for about a week more, as my comp's being fixed (major virus overload)-so I'm sorry if I'm late doing the assignments. :(

[acdb]

1) Which do you believe?
Animatism, Animism, or do you combine?

2) Do you use this belief in any magical work, meditations or in any way?



1 - Animatism, with a little bit of Animism thrown in. Animatism because I belive there is a universal energy in everything, and Animism becuase I believe that this force takes a different form for each object/creature.

2 - Yes, as I use the universal energy to 'fuel' my workings.

Cheers,
Alexander

[Shanti]

I just thought that I'd pop in & say; I'm going to be offline for about a week more, as my comp's being fixed (major virus overload)-so I'm sorry if I'm late doing the assignments. :(

Thats is fine. there is no time limit here. Its pretty free flowing so no worry. :)

[Shanti]

1 - Animatism, with a little bit of Animism thrown in. Animatism because I belive there is a universal energy in everything, and Animism becuase I believe that this force takes a different form for each object/creature.

2 - Yes, as I use the universal energy to 'fuel' my workings.

Cheers,
Alexander
I hope for everyone its easy to understand how some can mix the 2 types.
This is a great example of a mixing perspective.

Thank you very much acbd for sharing your perspective. :)

[~NightFire~]

1) Which do you believe?
Animatism, Animism, or do you combine?

Woohoo-my internet's back! _happydanc
But anyway...
I combine the 2.
I believe that everything living (Human, animal, plant, etc) has a spirit, & that everything that isn't living (e.g rock) has an energy force. I also believe that human beings can change the 'charge' of this force (e.g with objects that you are attatched to, & are special to you, your force has 'rubbed off' on them alot. It's hard to explain what I mean really!)
I also think that all things are linked, but as individual & unique things coming together-not as a divine entity though.

2) Do you use this belief in any magical work, meditations or in any way?

Well, when I shield every morning, my shield is Fire, & the animal I imagine aiding me is the Phoenix . I try & draw energy from the element of Fire, & from the Spirit of the Phoenix.

I've only just realised (with this class) that there was a name for these kind of beliefs. :hahugh:

[Shanti]

1) Which do you believe?
Animatism, Animism, or do you combine?

Woohoo-my internet's back! _happydanc
But anyway...
I combine the 2.
I believe that everything living (Human, animal, plant, etc) has a spirit, & that everything that isn't living (e.g rock) has an energy force. I also believe that human beings can change the 'charge' of this force (e.g with objects that you are attatched to, & are special to you, your force has 'rubbed off' on them alot. It's hard to explain what I mean really!)
I also think that all things are linked, but as individual & unique things coming together-not as a divine entity though.

2) Do you use this belief in any magical work, meditations or in any way?

Well, when I shield every morning, my shield is Fire, & the animal I imagine aiding me is the Phoenix . I try & draw energy from the element of Fire, & from the Spirit of the Phoenix.

I've only just realised (with this class) that there was a name for these kind of beliefs. :hahugh:
Very much thank you!!
We are going to be sharing more about this, "I also believe that human beings can change the 'charge' of this force (e.g with objects that you are attatched to, & are special to you, your force has 'rubbed off' on them alot. It's hard to explain what I mean really!)"

I am glad you mentioned it. :)

I didnt know the name for my beliefs till several yrs ago talking to a lady friend who lives in Japan. We were discussing our beliefs, she was Buddhist, and when I finished with my complex soup, she said your animist. I had no clue what that word was. But it was great to learn it as my studies since have taught me so much about something that is unknowingly quite common! :)

[Earthy]

I so enjoyed your last Animism lessons, that I am back for more :)
I am answering these without reading any other responses, i'm not too good with words but i know what i feel :)


1) Which do you believe?
Animatism, Animism, or do you combine?

I read your explanation about animatism and i was blown away. Now if i'm right then i believe i am an animatist as well as an animist.
I believe that every living thing on earth has spirit, animals, plants and rocks.
I also believe in a power or force which has no gender..this sums up exactly what i believe.i have struggled for years with personalising this power, i just couldn't get my head round it, gods, goddesses..names,genders, it just didn't work...and now i don't have to.I see that now..and it's so good to have a name for it.
I guess i do combine both beliefs :)

2) Do you use this belief in any magical work, meditations or in any way?

I am still struggling with meditation to be honest, but i do speak to the spirits of trees, and crystals.I speak to the spirit of the seas and rivers.
I speak to the weather spirits.I don't know if what i'm doing is right..but it feels right to me. :)

[Shanti]

Not good with words? LOL
Well I enjoyed reading your post and it was worded wonderfully.

I think you are a good example of what just is right for an individual. You tried to personify this power, but it just didn't work. You were right in allowing it to be as it is, unpersonified, all along. When something feels right to you, it is right for you.
Thats the beauty of the non-physical worlds...they are our own to discover and find our own personal understanding.

There is no one way to feel or see things...there are many, many ways.
When you feel something is right, even if it doesn't fit in with anything else, it is right for you.
If what is right for you is meant to change, your feelings will tell you so.
In the non0physical worlds there is no stone to carve rules on. :)

Thank you for sharing so much of yourself.

I so enjoyed your last Animism lessons, that I am back for more :)
I am answering these without reading any other responses, i'm not too good with words but i know what i feel :)


1) Which do you believe?
Animatism, Animism, or do you combine?

I read your explanation about animatism and i was blown away. Now if i'm right then i believe i am an animatist as well as an animist.
I believe that every living thing on earth has spirit, animals, plants and rocks.
I also believe in a power or force which has no gender..this sums up exactly what i believe.i have struggled for years with personalising this power, i just couldn't get my head round it, gods, goddesses..names,genders, it just didn't work...and now i don't have to.I see that now..and it's so good to have a name for it.
I guess i do combine both beliefs :)

2) Do you use this belief in any magical work, meditations or in any way?

I am still struggling with meditation to be honest, but i do speak to the spirits of trees, and crystals.I speak to the spirit of the seas and rivers.
I speak to the weather spirits.I don't know if what i'm doing is right..but it feels right to me. :)

[LadyCelt]

1) Which do you believe?
Animatism, Animism, or do you combine?
I think its a bit of both. A forest tends to hvae a general feel/vibe or energy. But, each tree in the forest can have a specific and sperate one as well. Rocks do have a vibe or energy, but if you ut more energy into it or enchant it then it can become more like the mana idea. Different types of gems and rocks having different healing and magic properties shows that there is definately some type of spirit or energy within them.

2) Do you use this belief in any magical work, meditations or in any way?
I think it is connected to gorunding because you become connected to the earth. I think it is within magic and energy work. The different elements combine in a circle, so each element has a life or energy and combines together to create something too.

[Shanti]

1) Which do you believe?
Animatism, Animism, or do you combine?
I think its a bit of both. A forest tends to hvae a general feel/vibe or energy. But, each tree in the forest can have a specific and sperate one as well. Rocks do have a vibe or energy, but if you ut more energy into it or enchant it then it can become more like the mana idea. Different types of gems and rocks having different healing and magic properties shows that there is definately some type of spirit or energy within them.

2) Do you use this belief in any magical work, meditations or in any way?
I think it is connected to gorunding because you become connected to the earth. I think it is within magic and energy work. The different elements combine in a circle, so each element has a life or energy and combines together to create something too.
Excellent. Thank you.
I am glad you mentioned the tree and the forest. The whole having its own energy but its inhabitants, the trees, having their own spirit or individual energy.

For me that reminds me of herds of animals.
Lets take sheep. :)

Each sheep to me has a spirit and an unconscious energy. The animal has both.
But the herd has an energy all its own. Like the parts of the whole create something new.
That need to survive, the survival in numbers is such a great need in the sheep, I feel it creates sort of, its own force, power. A power that you only find when the herd is whole. That power of the herd you don't feel in just a single sheep. That power is unique to the herd.


So from my perspective a single tree doesn't have the power you can feel in a forest. The trees create a power simply by being in a group. :)

So thats just some additional perspective I would like to share.
Thank you LC for helping to stimulate my thoughts.
Wonderful post LC. :)

[Gryffon]

1) Which do you believe?

Probably a combination, although I suppose more animatism than animism, as an object/animal can have a spirit without manifesting gender/personality/etc. characteristics, but I think it's difficult for something to have those characteristics without having some type of spirit/energy.

I do not have a defined set of beliefs, nor have I really thought much about the differences between these (often, I've thought of them as either the same thing/similar, just with different aspects), other than to believe that some things may lean one way, and others the other, and that that determination isn't something linked to a specific object (or, since trees have come up, a specific kind of tree), and it can vary from one thing to another. I think I 'think' animatism first, though (or consider it first).

2) Do you use this belief in any magical work, meditations or in any way?

No, not really. I've yet to get meditation to work well, and as I still 'don't know what I'm doing' also don't use this belief in another way (about all I've done the last 7-9 years is read, still! _inabox_ ).

[Shanti]

1) Which do you believe?

Probably a combination, although I suppose more animatism than animism, as an object/animal can have a spirit without manifesting gender/personality/etc. characteristics, but I think it's difficult for something to have those characteristics without having some type of spirit/energy.

I do not have a defined set of beliefs, nor have I really thought much about the differences between these (often, I've thought of them as either the same thing/similar, just with different aspects), other than to believe that some things may lean one way, and others the other, and that that determination isn't something linked to a specific object (or, since trees have come up, a specific kind of tree), and it can vary from one thing to another. I think I 'think' animatism first, though (or consider it first).

2) Do you use this belief in any magical work, meditations or in any way?

No, not really. I've yet to get meditation to work well, and as I still 'don't know what I'm doing' also don't use this belief in another way (about all I've done the last 7-9 years is read, still! _inabox_ ).
Thank you Gryffon for your sharing.
And you've mostly been reading the last 7-9 yrs?
Heck does that ever stop? I hope not. :)
Reading is my favorite thing to do.
I cant get enough brain food.
Right now my reading topic is Quantum Physics. :)

[NeoNomad]

1) Which do you believe?

I would say that I've always had some at least marginally animistic beliefs, ever since I was a young child. From the ususual habit of bringing home pocketfuls of rocks that "spoke to me" wherever I'd go, to scouting trips into the Uintah Mountains where I was happiest climbing to the hiking away from the others where I could stand at a cliff and listen to the wind or gaze lazily into a stream as it ran on by... I must say that grasping the more universal forces or energies of nature (the more animatistic ideas) is more difficult for me. It's not that I don't believe in their existance, it's that I an perhaps unsure of when I'm experiencing these more impersonal forces or energies or simply picking up on the specific feel of some specific area or thing. Does that make any sense? :awilly:

2) Do you use this belief in any way?

I often work with my specific stones and gems in divination or when connecting with my spirit guides. I find that I have found certain places in nature that I go to when I want to center myself, relax, and figure things out. I attempt to work with various totem spirits from time to time - when I do, it's very definately not an impersonal feel of some universal force... there is definately a feeling of masculine or feminine to each connection, and a sense of personality that comes through that is very distinct with each particular animal... Here's hoping I'm on the right track! LOL

[Shanti]

1) Which do you believe?

I would say that I've always had some at least marginally animistic beliefs, ever since I was a young child. From the ususual habit of bringing home pocketfuls of rocks that "spoke to me" wherever I'd go, to scouting trips into the Uintah Mountains where I was happiest climbing to the hiking away from the others where I could stand at a cliff and listen to the wind or gaze lazily into a stream as it ran on by... I must say that grasping the more universal forces or energies of nature (the more animatistic ideas) is more difficult for me. It's not that I don't believe in their existance, it's that I an perhaps unsure of when I'm experiencing these more impersonal forces or energies or simply picking up on the specific feel of some specific area or thing. Does that make any sense? :awilly:

2) Do you use this belief in any way?

I often work with my specific stones and gems in divination or when connecting with my spirit guides. I find that I have found certain places in nature that I go to when I want to center myself, relax, and figure things out. I attempt to work with various totem spirits from time to time - when I do, it's very definately not an impersonal feel of some universal force... there is definately a feeling of masculine or feminine to each connection, and a sense of personality that comes through that is very distinct with each particular animal... Here's hoping I'm on the right track! LOL
You are most definitely on the right track.:)

Thank you for your sharing.

And your not alone in being a rock communicating child.
My mate was the same way and now my son is the same way.

I had a bond to grasshoppers as a child. I could feel they had spirit even if at age 4 I had no idea what it was called. :)

[Annorah]

1) Which do you believe?
Animatism, Animism, or do you combine?

I think I tend towards animism at the moment but I am here to learn so I am keeping an open mind. There is much here that is new to me but I did especially like the Native American idea of spirits being part of a whole rather than individuals - I think that is why a place can have a particular feeling/energy (perhaps a combination of the energies of the things which make it - trees, flowers, rocks, water etc?) . I find the abstract nature of animatism more difficult - just the way my mind works (I never understood electricity at school either :) ) - so this is going to take some more thought.

2) Do you use this belief in any magical work, meditations or in any way?

I haven't really identified this yet - I have asked the guardians of a place for protection (does this count?)

Thanks - this is so interesting (even though my brain feels as though it is melting :) )

[Shanti]

1) Which do you believe?
Animatism, Animism, or do you combine?

I think I tend towards animism at the moment but I am here to learn so I am keeping an open mind. There is much here that is new to me but I did especially like the Native American idea of spirits being part of a whole rather than individuals - I think that is why a place can have a particular feeling/energy (perhaps a combination of the energies of the things which make it - trees, flowers, rocks, water etc?) . I find the abstract nature of animatism more difficult - just the way my mind works (I never understood electricity at school either :) ) - so this is going to take some more thought.

2) Do you use this belief in any magical work, meditations or in any way?

I haven't really identified this yet - I have asked the guardians of a place for protection (does this count?)

Thanks - this is so interesting (even though my brain feels as though it is melting :) )
Gosh dont let your brain melt, the class needs you and your brain. LOL
I think your asking guardians for protection counts, because you do have a feeling for something outside of the material, physical real. :)

Thank you for sharing. :)

[MoonRain]

My aplogies for my tardy response Shanti - been having some issues of my own of late (btw - I hope your efforts to help your daughter work out for the best).

1) Which do you believe?
Animatism, Animism, or do you combine?

I have thought about this a lot since reading the lesson and I think I lean toward Animism; I really do believe that all things have a unique energy force/spirit or personality. I never really thought about it before but lately I find myself talking to the forest flora and fauna when I take my walks. Whenever I see an unfortunate critter by the road side I like to say a private little prayer for them in hope that their spirit is taken care of.

I have never actually done any magikal work but I do have a number of crystals that I like to wear or carry with me in certain circumstances.

I do see how easy it would be to combine the two beliefs and the more I read the more open minded and willing to learn I become.

Thank you very much for teaching this class.

[PurpleDuck]

1) Which do you believe?
Animatism, Animism, or do you combine?

I would have to say I combine both. I believe that everything, from my cat, to the rivers, to the rocks and trees have spirits of their own. When I walk from varsity to my dad's work (about a kilometer), I walk past these tall trees that I call fluffballs because of their seeds, but don't know their real name. They're big, and you can feel that they're pretty old. Often when I walk past them I hold my hands to them because the life within them is so calming. I'll also stand for nearly half an hour pulling staples out of the bark where people have stuck posters and stuff. I hate that. I also believe that there is an overall force that surrounds and penetrates us (now I'm sounding like Obi-Wan :p). I generally call this force "god" but I think that even the gods are spirits within this great force. The One, the All, if you will.

2) Do you use this belief in any magical work, meditations or in any way?

As I generally consider myself a novice, I prefer to learn right now rather than practice magick. I'm very concious of the fact that if I phrase something badly, or make a mistake, I could end up hurting someone, which is definitely something I don't want. While I really want to do my own rituals, I want to wait until I feel competent enough to try. All I really do is meditate, and I've met my spirit guide through that, albeit briefly.

[Shanti]

Thanks you Elwyn and PurpleDuck.

One thing I have found common amongst animist and animatist is often they have deep feelings for various plant life in addition to animals. :)

[AmyDarling]

1) Which do you believe?
Animatism, Animism, or do you combine?

Like many replies I believe in some sort of combined variation of the two. I've never categorized it but I've just always had unusually close ties with nature. I learned very early in life that Energy is all around us at any given time. And if you pay close enough attention it's almost as if we can see signs that will guide us or make us aware. It's in the trees, the wind, the rain, the sun, the moon, the grass, and all living creatures. I can't imagine how so many people are unfortunate enough to not be aware of all the living beauty in this world. I feel lucky everyday to see the world like I see it.

2) Do you use this belief in any magical work, meditations or in any way?

I've never been one who works well in written spells and practical magical work. So actually I would guess most of my energy comes from exactly this. Just kind of melding into the Energy that is available at pretty much any given time when you call for it. I suppose that makes me sort of chaotic. I do however find that many natural things help aid in meditation or just getting into the right mindset. Things such as smelling the aromas of herbs and incense, watching sunsets I am treated to daily, bathing in the subtle energy of the silver moonlight, watching a spectacular lightning storm, etc. Just sort of go with the flow I suppose. Though sometimes I wish I had more structure.

[Shanti]

1) Which do you believe?
Animatism, Animism, or do you combine?

Like many replies I believe in some sort of combined variation of the two. I've never categorized it but I've just always had unusually close ties with nature. I learned very early in life that Energy is all around us at any given time. And if you pay close enough attention it's almost as if we can see signs that will guide us or make us aware. It's in the trees, the wind, the rain, the sun, the moon, the grass, and all living creatures. I can't imagine how so many people are unfortunate enough to not be aware of all the living beauty in this world. I feel lucky everyday to see the world like I see it.

2) Do you use this belief in any magical work, meditations or in any way?

I've never been one who works well in written spells and practical magical work. So actually I would guess most of my energy comes from exactly this. Just kind of melding into the Energy that is available at pretty much any given time when you call for it. I suppose that makes me sort of chaotic. I do however find that many natural things help aid in meditation or just getting into the right mindset. Things such as smelling the aromas of herbs and incense, watching sunsets I am treated to daily, bathing in the subtle energy of the silver moonlight, watching a spectacular lightning storm, etc. Just sort of go with the flow I suppose. Though sometimes I wish I had more structure.
Wish you had more structure? Sound to me as if you flow quite wonderfully like nature does. :)
Beautiful post, thank you. :)

[Caitlin.ann]

I know I'm really late with this, so please accept my apologies.

1. I believe in a mixture of Animism and Animatism. I believe there is a universal life force which is within everything and produced by living things, but I also believe that each living thing has a distinct spiritual essence or spirit along with it.

2. Yes, I do use this belief, not just in magical workings, but also in everyday life.

[Shanti]

I know I'm really late with this, so please accept my apologies.

1. I believe in a mixture of Animism and Animatism. I believe there is a universal life force which is within everything and produced by living things, but I also believe that each living thing has a distinct spiritual essence or spirit along with it.

2. Yes, I do use this belief, not just in magical workings, but also in everyday life.
Thank you.
I too live my beliefs everyday. :)

[airmist]

1) Which do you believe?
Animatism, Animism, or do you combine?

2) Do you use this belief in any magical work, meditations or in any way?



Hi Everyone, thanks so much for contributing and thank you Shanti for this class. It was just brought to my attention in another area so I came looking for it tonight. I look forward to learning from and exploring with everyone. I had heard the word animism (as a heresy) many years ago, but did not know what it was and had forgotten it anyway.

1) It seems I may have beliefs that fall into the animist category. I have been pantheistic for a long time and some of my belief in the universality or unity of all sounds a little like animatistic beliefs, but I am more taken by the animistic individual spirits. I have believed that everything has a spirit, individually. I didn't know where that fit into any belief system.

2) I believe in the immanent divinity of all, the theistic part of pantheisism one might say, although I don't believe in any type of anthropomorphised "god". What this did not address for me was the very real communication and assistance I've received from what I believed were the spirits of plants and place where I might be. (I explored polytheism as an explanation for a year or so, but that was a digression and didn't work for me.)

I do meditate daily. But to differentiate from meditation, I have what I call conscious contact (ie., prayer) with certain spirits. They are not interchangeable nor everywhere. I need to locate and address the spirits of a place. I meet and develop relationships with them much as with people. The most powerful in my experience have been the trees in certain places. My experience, hence my belief, is that I cannot overstate the influence some of these spirits have had when I've asked.

[Shanti]

airmist,
Thank you so much for sharing and for talking about trees!
I have a story about trees, but I wont place it here.
After a few more lessons I will make a thread were we can all share stories of our experiences if we choose.

Again thank you.
your post inspired me. :)

[MonSno_LeeDra]

I figured since I answered the second lesson I should answer the first as well.

1) Which do you believe?
Animatism, Animism, or do you combine?

I'd have to say I have a combined persception. I strongly follow Native lore and belief in that I recognize the existance of the Green People, the Stone People, The Winged People, the Two Legs and the Four Legged people. Yet in that I also recognize the individual facet of each grouping.

As a collective whole I also understand and relate to the spirts of place and element. Its interesting when you sit and listen to the ramblings of a mountian stream or the wind as it carries the stories of the people on its voice.

Sometimes the most soothing touch is that of a willow branch or sapling as it seems to reach out and touch you even though no trace of air movement is present.

2) Do you use this belief in any magical work, meditations or in any way?

Most definately. In many ways I look to the respective peoples when I need different influences on my life. When I need to really slow down and step back I try to connect with the stone people and thier slowness. If I simply pick up a piece of stone it helps to ease my mind and lower my heart and pulse rate.

Water is a strong element for me so I often sit by the bank of a river or stream. I let the spirit of the element carry me away or cleanse my spirit. A slow moving stream can calm and soothe while a rushing river can excite or charge you up.

[Shanti]

Thank you MonSno_LeeDra.
I responded to your post in Lesson 2 before coming here. LOL
Backwards, it works for me!:lol:

[Rosetta Morrigan]

1. I believe in the combination of animism and animatism. I guess it all started when I was in third grade...there was this certain tree on the playground that I and two of my friends would go to everyday. From the start, we could tell that it was alive...really alive and we named it The Magik Tree. It had a knot in it and on that knot was a hole. We would feed the tree daily, putting acorns in the hole (which was like his mouth) and mashing them up. In the fall, we swept the leaves from around him. We would circle him and dance and talk to him.
I always try to acknowledge the spirit in everything.
In my opinion, everything has mana and mana is a certain energy...a universal energy that exists in both worlds. I believe the energy in all things is of an impersonal nature but that all things also have personalities and such. It's much like the quote from the song in Pochahauntus (i didn't spell that rite did i?)
"I know every rock and tree and creature has a life, has a spirit, has a name."

2. When casting circles, I call in five elements: Air, Fire, Water, Earth, and Ether. For me, these elements relate directly to the physical world and nature as well as the spiritual world and that energy that permeates it (mana). In meditation, I also work to balance the mana within me.

Thank you so much Shanti for this class...i'm really learning a so much and i love to hear everyone else's beliefs and opinions!

[Shanti]

Rm, Thats was good reading. Thank you I enjoyed your perspective very much.
I especially enjoyed your sharing of the tree. :)
Wonderful of you to take us to your experience.

Thank you.

[Amber]

I hope you don't mind me butting into this class. :hahugh:

1. I think I'm a little of both, but in general more of an animist. I believe in a sort of universal energy, but I also believe that this gives everything it's own unique spirit.

2. As I'm still pretty new to paganism, I very rarely perform any magick and don't meditate too often, but I'm a bit of a tree hugger and am often found talking to rocks, plants, and my kitten. =P

[Shanti]

I hope you don't mind me butting into this class. :hahugh:

1. I think I'm a little of both, but in general more of an animist. I believe in a sort of universal energy, but I also believe that this gives everything it's own unique spirit.

2. As I'm still pretty new to paganism, I very rarely perform any magick and don't meditate too often, but I'm a bit of a tree hugger and am often found talking to rocks, plants, and my kitten. =P
No such thing as butting in here!!
Its called sharing and all are welcome. :)

I like that you have worded number one in such a way that in a way could be contradicting.
A universal energy sounds as if its all one, yet things have unique spirit.

I picture this massive energy that's everywhere, all over....just everywhere, massive. Yet, it gently penetrates a tree and breaths through it, blends with it, becomes one yet more than one inside this tree....
and in the end...that tree is thus so unique from every other thing in existence, its fascinating all on its own. :)

Thank you so much for sharing your words and thoughts that have formed new pleasurable images in my mind.

Beautiful Amber, just beautiful. :)

[wolfjan1]

My Dad always taught me that the fruit bearing trees were female. They needed extra food and water, but the nearby male would benefit as the water and compost spread. That you have to make a balance of offerings for the tree to reward you with it's fruits and that you have to save seeds from the fruit to plant elsewhere to feed the birds and other animals and keep the balance going. That you take fruit from the tree and corn from the fields to bless the birds and animals as a part of nature to keep the balance of life going. That you also put out water in your suburban space to provide for the small birds and animals.
I followed him around a lot when I was a kid, and I still put out pecans, water, fruit, ears of corn and suet for the little animals and compost for the trees. Suet all year.
The birds and squirrels Know our yard and give us many joyous hours just watching them. Learning their habits and watching what they will and will not eat.

[Tanya]

1) Which do you believe?
Animatism, Animism, or do you combine?

2) Do you use this belief in any magical work, meditations or in any way?

*EXAMPLE: I use/share/invite just the force of fire when I work with fire but I use/share/invite the help of a spirit went I work with a tree.


Have fun!!!





This is a fascinating subject. may I join?

1. Both... in that I see the 'force' as being like a great river moving through a delta.... from the close perspective, one experiences it as many rivers and streams.. but in reality it is all one river...the force is one.. but spreads itself through the world and becomes individualized....

Or perhaps one could use the similie of an orchestra... there is one orchestra playing one piece of music but each individual instrument is playing different complementry notes that feed into the greater piece of work

2. My entire practice magically and meditatively is about aligning myself with the world spirit. I believe being in tune with the "tao" "Spirit Mundi" "Force" as I think of it will lead me to happiness and finding the place where I fit... where one fits, need and desires are in tune with what is on offer.. i.e 'things fall in place'

do I sense indivivual spirits?... yes, any time I listen...

[Shanti]

My Dad always taught me that the fruit bearing trees were female. They needed extra food and water, but the nearby male would benefit as the water and compost spread. That you have to make a balance of offerings for the tree to reward you with it's fruits and that you have to save seeds from the fruit to plant elsewhere to feed the birds and other animals and keep the balance going. That you take fruit from the tree and corn from the fields to bless the birds and animals as a part of nature to keep the balance of life going. That you also put out water in your suburban space to provide for the small birds and animals.
I followed him around a lot when I was a kid, and I still put out pecans, water, fruit, ears of corn and suet for the little animals and compost for the trees. Suet all year.
The birds and squirrels Know our yard and give us many joyous hours just watching them. Learning their habits and watching what they will and will not eat.

Thank you!!!
Thats was beautiful!!!
Thats good sharing there. Very good.

And sharing with the wilds around us is wonderful, dome in moderation and with heart and wisdom.
I say that because some times people think they are doing good when they toss some wild geese a loaf of bread and in reality they are hurting them.

But your example is wonderful!!! :)

Thank you so much for taking the time to post that.

[andryk]

1) Which do you believe?
Animatism, Animism, or do you combine?

2) Do you use this belief in any magical work, meditations or in any way?



1-my belief is founded on both ideas; everything have it's own spirit but every spirit is a part of the One.

2-yes, i use in shamanism and meditation; i follow a Silva's method and we have a journey in the "plants world".
in general i usually speak with everything around me and several times i feedback several (always friendly) feelings.