A Word on "Leopard Magic"

The Leopard has a rosette patterned coat with a long dark tail. Unlike most cats it can exist is areas without plentiful water supplies giving it an advantage for survival. Because it has been given the generic name of Panther those with this totem should also study this cat.

Leopards are excellent at stalking prey. They are silent and inconspicuous hunters and are able to move in and out of situations without being seen. This invisibility allows them to observe every situation they encounter with clarity. Leopard medicine people have strong intuitive abilities. Learning to trust and respond to their inner instincts is part of their life lesson. They are also highly sensitive and need to pay attention to what they feel and then respond accordingly. Caressing touch in various forms is important for those who hold this medicine.

As with all cats, the whiskers of the Leopard have specialized sensory hairs that can register very small changes in air pressure enabling them to avoid objects whilst moving around in the dark. Whiskers are also used to establish the position of prey and locate the exact position for the killing bite. Because leopards kill by biting the back of the neck and do not attack their prey from the front, those with leopard energy often have difficulty confronting conflict head on. Sometimes this can be beneficial and at other times harmful. Learning how to conquer conflict in a balanced way is part of what the leopard teaches.

The Leopards huge strength, powerful limbs and neck muscles enable it to carry its kill (often a full grown antelope or young giraffe) to higher places in trees to keep it away from other animals. Those with this medicine have strong bodies but need to remember to release pent up anger, frustrations and other emotions or physical health issues related to the limbs and the skeleton could occur. When leopard energy is contained within and not expressed outwardly arthritic type conditions can develop.

Those with this totem would benefit by imitating the leopard in its movements. Any form of dance, tai chi or rhythmic practice would be beneficial. Because the leopard is a strong and powerful leper it can show us how to leap over obstacles efficiently and gracefully. They are masters at negotiating their environment and will continually serve to encourage that master ship in those who hold this totem.