Strength, Wisdom & Freedom: In Animal Form

My 3 Favourite Animals and What They Mean to Me

Animals have a special way of connecting with us - not just through their beauty or power, but through the values they seem to represent. For me, three animals have always stood out above the rest: lions, elephants and horses. They’re more than just majestic creatures; they each symbolize something deeply personal and powerful.

🦁 Lions - Strength & Courage

Lions have always fascinated me. There's something about their raw strength and commanding presence that feels almost mythical, but what really draws me to lions is their courage. They walk with confidence, not arrogance. They're not the largest or fastest animals in the wild, but they lead with a quiet authority and that, to me, is real power.

Lions represent the kind of inner strength I admire. The ability to face fear head-on, to protect those you care about and to remain calm and in control even when the world feels chaotic. Whenever I need to remind myself to be bold, to stand up for myself or to lead with integrity, I think of the lion.

🐘 Elephants - Wisdom & Loyalty

Elephants are gentle giants - intelligent, emotional and deeply connected to their families. What I love most about them is their wisdom and loyalty. Elephants remember. They mourn their dead. They support each other. Their social bonds are strong and they’re fiercely protective of their herd.

To me, elephants resemble patience and emotional intelligence. In a world that moves fast and often rewards impulsiveness, elephants are a reminder to slow down and reflect. They carry generations of memory and knowledge and they act with quiet, deliberate purpose. They inspire me to be thoughtful, to listen more and to value the people around me.

🐎 Horses - Freedom & Trust

There’s a reason horses have always been symbols of freedom. The way they move, the wind in their mane and the rhythm of their gallop - it’s wild and beautiful, but there’s also a deep sense of trust in horses. When a horse lets you ride it, it’s not out of submission, but cooperation. It’s a mutual respect.

Horses remind me to stay connected to my wild side, to not lose my sense of wonder and independence, but they also remind me that true freedom comes with trust - in yourself, in others and in the journey you’re on. There's something spiritual about being in the presence of a horse. They feel things. They teach you to be calm, present and open.

Final Thoughts

Lions, elephants and horses each speak to different parts of who I am and who I strive to be: brave, wise and free. They ground me when I’m lost, inspire me when I’m stuck and remind me of the kind of energy I want to bring into the world.

Whether you see animals the same way or not, I think we all have those symbols or spirits that help guide us. These three just happen to be mine.

What are yours?