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Journey, Elk Hide Rattle
Primary Hide: Elk
About Rattles
Medicine rattles are sacred tools used in various cultural traditions, especially in Native American and shamanic practices, for spiritual rituals, healing, and ceremonies. They are employed to connect with the spirit world, focus energy, and promote healing by producing a rhythmic sound believed to cleanse and purify, break up blockages, and induce altered states of consciousness.
Rattles serve as a link to the spirit realm, helping practitioners communicate with spirits and unseen forces. Their rhythmic sound is thought to have powerful healing effects by releasing stagnant energy and cleansing a person’s or space’s energy field. They help focus the mind and set intentions for a ritual, such as cleansing, healing, or seeking guidance. During ceremonies and traditions, they are used to maintain rhythm, produce mesmerizing sounds, and guide the flow of energy among participants.
The rattles are said to embody powerful, raw, elemental energy and connect to the spirits of animals, plants, and minerals. Many traditions see the rattle as a gift from the spirits and as an embodiment of the natural world, with materials that represent different aspects of the environment. Each rattle has its own voice and personality, shaped by its material and the intentions the artist imbued it with when it was crafted. It is not uncommon for practitioners to have many rattles, each for a different purpose.
Crystals
Red Jasper: Connects to the root chakra and promotes healing, stamina, courage, and good health.
Yellow Tiger's Eye: Connects to the Solar Plexus and promotes authenticity, personal power, and protection.
Plant Medicine
Raven infuses every rattle she crafts with plant medicine. The spirit of the plants contributes its energy, enriching the unique character of each rattle. When you first receive your rattles, you may notice some additional plant fragments falling out when you shake them. However, as time goes by, these herbal elements will be absorbed into the hide, becoming a permanent part of your rattle!
Alder (Handle): Alder trees are members of the birch family and grow near streams. The symbolism of the Alder Tree is rich, from its connection to water and the cyclical nature of life to its role as a protector and guide. It teaches the importance of embracing change and transitions, urging souls to navigate the currents of life with courage and trust in the natural flow of the universe. The alder tree is a symbol of resilience, capable of withstanding the challenges of existence while maintaining a profound connection to the spiritual realms.
Agrimony: An herb of road opening, blessing, and protection. It is one of the main herbs used to block negative magick and remove obstacles.
Rosemary: A strong protection, healing, and purification herb. Rosemary helps to raise vibrations, strengthen the body, and support energetic integration in the body.
All rattles are consecrated with Tobacco and Cornmeal for blessings from the Sacred Masculine and Feminine, and with White Sage for purification and protection.
Animal Medicine
Red Fox Fur and Toe (wrapped around the handle): The Fox spirit animal brings intelligence, adaptability, and keen observation. It teaches the importance of blending into your environment while remaining alert to the ever-changing dynamics around you. Embracing the Fox spirit means honing your ability to navigate life’s challenges with grace and wit. Call on Fox Medicine to aid personal growth, connect with Mother Earth, and navigate relationships gracefully and tactfully. The Fox is a beautiful spirit that helps those seeking individual strength and footing in challenging situations.
Elk Hide: In many cultures, Elk symbolize strength, stamina, and pride. It represents a connection to the earth and nature and the ability to navigate and adapt to life's challenges with grace and dignity. The Elk embodies power, courage, and independence. It encourages a sense of determination and drive to overcome obstacles and achieve success.
Rattle Artwork
Crossed Arrows: A symbol of protection and friendship. This rattle represents that no matter where your journey takes you, you are always protected and never walking alone.
The Four Directions: The four directions are shown, each represented by a moon. The four directions symbolize the interconnectedness of all things in life. In different spiritual traditions, each direction has various meanings, ranging from the 4 elements to the 4 states of human existence and even the 4 cardinal points. Each direction is marked with a moon so that you can decide what these directions mean to you.
All of the Rattles made by White Thunder Bear are sourced from cruelty-free animal parts. If Feathers are used, they have either shed them naturally, died of natural causes, or are consumed for food, where using all of the parts of each animal is an honoring of the animal. Furs and leather are sourced from the same supplier that sources parts for first families.