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Sacred Celtic Mandala Tattoo Design
I love observing the shifts that take place and the energy that flows in at any given time. It’s all very telling…always. They seem to come in waves and this especially holds true with the sacred tattoo energy I help co-create. There definitely feels to be an energetic pattern or commonality that aligns.
As shared, there was a big surge of “Africa” energy for a while and a lot of Divine Male clients all at once, then a major shift into Shamanic energy, and now we come into the enchanting Celtic flow.
It’s really fun to be able to travel the eclectic, mystical waters as I dive into where the next co-creative sacred tattoos will take me.
Today’s design I’m sharing is what channeled through as a sort of magickal Celtic Mandala integrating both a sacred geometry and organic energy together. The symbols that came through for it (mirroring of my client) were the Spiral, Triple Spiral, Triangle, Circle, Daffodil, and Dragonfly. This piece was intuited for my client’s left inner forearm, at the widest area just under the vein where you give blood.
A little about the symbolism in it, as I know everyone likes to see what all is possible to bring into sacred tattoo designs:
The Triple Spiral represents drawing in the three powers of the Maiden, Mother, and Crone and is a sign of feminine power and empowerment through transition and growth. It’s called the Threefold in this case when that center triangular shape with hole is present, representing the hub and signifying unity of the three power.
The Spiral, which I added to the Triple Spiral arms and inside of the Dragonfly represents ethereal energy radiating both outward and inward and symbolizes growth, birth and expansion consciousness, as well as the continuous cycles of life.
Both the Circle and Triangle commonly symbolize clarity. The Circle symbolizing also your self-awareness within the construct of the universe and cosmic consciousness and of course, eternity. The Triangle pointing upright is a visual symbol of ascension and brings the concept of duality to a third position of integration and harmony. The peak at top symbolizes higher thought, inspiration, enlightenment, oneness of mind, aspiration, focus, unity consciousness. In this way it helps you focus and center the inner conflicts in order to be in stillness of peace with the wholeness of who you are and within that peace to be guided by your authentic voice.
My client resonates with wild flowers, like me, and Daffodils immediately struck me. The daffodil has beautiful symbolism that felt very balancing for this piece. Daffodils are symbols of rebirth, new beginnings (as they are connected to March and the Spring Equinox that heralds a new season), good fortune and luck (you never want to have or give just one as it is said this will not bring good fortune, but more than one is fortuitous – I added three in the design to keep with the energy), ray of hope and light ahead, assists in reminding you to be in your heart and not let ego lead you, purity, the sun always shining down upon you, and joy. The flowers I felt to make more organic, to balance the more abstract qualities to bring in that energy of sensitivity, sweetness, tenderness, and gentleness, as well as connection to the Earth Mother and Nature.
The Number 3 generally symbolizes creative power, growth, magic, intuition, expression, versatility, pure joy of creativity, celebration, very goddess energy connected and reflective of the Empress in the Tarot, overcoming duality, manifestation, integration, complete cycles, flow.
The Dragonfly symbolizes also prosperity, good luck, strength, peace, harmony, purity, but also change, change of perspective, going beyond the surface to the deeper meanings of life, power, poise, maturity, elegance, grace, defeat of self-created illusions, clear vision into the realities of life, discovery of your own abilities and your true self, removal of doubts, self-discovery, removal of inhibitions, living in the moment, living to the fullest, and ability to see beyond human limitations. I created the Dragonfly as a mixture of magickal and organic to be that energy of Divinity within the Human Temple Body where physical and spiritual meet, and created it in a more flowy quality to bring in that femininity and natural elegance.
I integrated all of them to create a very potent and focused energy that also had room to flow and grow in an organic nature – balancing right and left brain and bringing a wisdom and alchemy of how to work in that middle space that knows how and when to use each part in the attainment of the whole. While the Mandala itself was lovely, I felt that combining a magickal dragonfly flying toward it would signify the continuous journey of evolution and to work towards consistence presence and mindfulness in your conscious awareness and choices. There is also a sense of drawing energy inward and outward at the same time within the Mandala, and a blossoming energy, along with a bit of alchemical mysticism.
This all felt to be perfectly mirroring of the essence my client had expressed and that came through for where she is at, what she is celebrating, and what she is moving into and intending to create.
Looking forward to tomorrow’s journey, as we continue with the Celtic flow.
If you would like to partner in co-creating your own sacred tattoo design to embody the empowerment you desire, you can contact me at tania@spiritualskin.com.
For more information about the process and pricing please visit: What is a Tattoo Design Consultation
Some people have preferred to read my book, Spiritual Skin ~ Sacred Tattoos: More than Skin Deep, especially if they are new to sacred tattoo designs, before embarking on this journey.
If you are drawn to learn more about sacred tattoos you can order a copy of the book here: Spiritual Skin
It is also available in Kindle and PDF formats here: Spiritual Skin
Radio Interview with Lady Dee of Mind Magick: Spiritual Tattoos for Transformation & Empowerment
Tonight I had the beautiful opportunity to be a guest of Mind Magick with Lady Dee on Culture Freedom Radio. She interviewed me with some really great questions focusing on my book “Spiritual Skin” and the topic of sacred tattoos. We also delved into a deeper discussion of the “magick” that sacred tattoos can play as a supportive role in this new paradigm awakening – a reminder of your Divine nature.
If you missed the show live, you can listen to the full interview at this link:
Spiritual Tattoos for Transformation and Empowerment
Loving gratitude to Lady Dee for such a beautiful and enjoyable interview, and for honoring this sacred art with her loving attention and interest.
If you would like to partner in co-creating your own sacred tattoo design to embody the empowerment you desire, you can contact me at tania@spiritualskin.com.
For more information about the process and pricing please visit: What is a Tattoo Design Consultation
Some people have preferred to read my book, Spiritual Skin ~ Sacred Tattoos: More than Skin Deep, especially if they are new to sacred tattoo designs, before embarking on this journey.
If you are drawn to learn more about sacred tattoos you can order a copy of the book here: Spiritual Skin
It is also available in Kindle and PDF formats here: Spiritual Skin
Enchanting Shaman’s Necklace Sacred Tattoo Design ~ Earth, Sea & the Eternal Mystery
Another magickal sacred tattoo design journey came to closure while I was away in Utah. As I mentioned recently, there has been a lot of beautiful shamanic and integrative energy of Earth and Cosmos flowing in through the collective hearts. And that means for me, tapping into the energies I really love when creating these powerful and unique reflections.
I love that I was able to work on and complete the full process while I was away in Utah’s nature. It is beautiful country there and being in the enchanting snow, mountains and forests was great energy to immerse in for channeling this piece.
However, the piece channeled through in vision and essence when I visited the beach here at Crystal Cove, right before leaving to Utah, and then came into manifestation on my trip. This combination helped to integrate the perfect blend of energy my client had wanted. It’s always is a treat to see how things unfold when you flow with where you are guided, as my beach walk was a last minute embrace, which proved fruitful in anchoring the energies of both Sea and Earth.
Hence, the energy of this sacred tattoo is an infusion of Sea, Earth and Cosmos into a magickal/shaman blend that has sort of an enchanting, light, graceful, yet potent feel to it. The essence of things my client had expressed came through in imagery that sort of melds into almost an enchantress who has descended from the stars to nurture and seed the earth she loves. So, while connected to that ancient Earth energy, it is also otherworldly and demonstrative of the reason that brought her to Earth to share and support what she loves.
It also integrates light and shadow aspects that meet in harmony through the heart and voice (which is where they will sit on the Heart and Throat Chakra areas). It was an exciting evolution to witness and feel the design unfolding, as well as to experience the transitions of my client from tattoo to tattoo we’ve co-created together. Major shifts indeed that mirror the seasons of change.
This sacred tattoo design is quite large and will drape from left (Wolf) to right (Raven) of neck, cascading down into the décolleté – creating an enchanting, alive shaman’s necklace. From the sides of neck, it will then sort of flow down the skin at the base of neck, and where neck and chest and neck and between the shoulders connects.
In between Raven and Wolf is this flow of Earth, Sea, and Cosmos energy melding together a nautilus shell, hummingbird, flowers, fan shell, watery waves, feathers, cosmic stars, and a butterfly, to represent the Galactic Butterfly (or Hunab Ku) symbolism.
I love how the hummingbird hovers at the Heart Chakra and at center of this shapeshifting tapestry, since legends say that hummingbirds float free of time, carrying our hopes for love, joy, and celebration. The hummingbird’s delicate grace reminds us that life is rich, beauty is everywhere, every personal connection has meaning and that laughter is life’s sweetest creation – perfect mirroring essence for my client’s evolutionary and miraculous journey.
Some times I like to refrain from describing too much, as I like the designs to speak for themselves, relative to the viewer and wearer. In this case, I would love to share what my client expressed about it, as she so beautifully expressed the essence of her piece that I had felt channeling through her in energy and visuals. She speaks the language of my visions and I feel that her expression demonstrates how an open channel created between myself and each soul I co-create with, can result in a perfectly reflective connection during the process that does not need to be communicated in words, yet is received in heart and mind, telepathically.
In my client’s own words about her Spiritual Skin:
“It is an amazing piece. Very much what I am feeling within. I do love all the symbolism. I also see a great-bodied snake right under Wolf, going into the nautilus shell. I love the subtle designs on that part, as well as how it flows into the shell. The feathers coming down on each side are graceful and flowing. Wolf and Raven at the top are just as I feel them – Guardians.
As Wolf, I keep my nose close to the ground for the next scent. I mostly know and am sure of where I am now. Instinctual, close to the earth – as Wolf, I know I cannot take the next step without knowing where I am now. And I am learning that that is all that is important – to fully inhabit my place right at this moment. Wolf sniffs out the Earth-path. As Raven, I am transported away from the earth, and go traveling to seek what I need to know in order to take that next step. This is what Raven does – and knowing this is my answer. Raven travels in the ethers to retrieve what is hidden and brings it into the light. Their purposes are interwoven, and used in tandem.
I love the fantastical shapes of energy that is changing, not stagnant. Love Hummingbird drinking of the nectar of life. I love the waves, and the feeling of the sea throughout the piece. It is very sensual. The balance is incredible. Balance of shapes and feel, Sea and Earth. Sky. There is much fire energy elsewhere and here was needed the solid stability of Earth and Water – I will even say that where Hummingbird is drinking her nectar – the area that is a sort of oval – reminds me of the Sacred Vagina. I love that. I don’t think it is obvious, but to my mind it is sacred. It is a perfect blend of Earth, Sea, Sky, and the Eternal Mystery.
This star-space under/a part of Raven – is, to me, the entrance to the Mystery. The place Raven goes for help and healing and information. The black hole in the universe that She flies into and back. It is Her secret and sacred entrance to All that Is.
Oh, I am really uplifted by this piece, Tania! I mean the energy is rising up into my chest and this is what I needed. It is an honor to work with you, as the energy is so fluid and real between us. I ride the wave of this Beautiful energy and am thankful beyond words for your channeling. For listening to me with your heart and with your Inner Eyes of Understanding and Perception.”
Reflecting the gratitude and love right back at you dear one. I am honored to walk this journey with such exquisite souls.
If you would like to partner in co-creating your own sacred tattoo design to embody the empowerment you desire, you can contact me at tania@spiritualskin.com.
For more information about the process and pricing please visit: What is a Tattoo Design Consultation
Some people have preferred to read my book, Spiritual Skin ~ Sacred Tattoos: More than Skin Deep, especially if they are new to sacred tattoo designs, before embarking on this journey.
If you are drawn to learn more about sacred tattoos you can order a copy of the book here: Spiritual Skin
It is also available in Kindle and PDF formats here: Spiritual Skin
Africa Under My Skin – An Epic Sacred Tattoo Design Journey
I just completed a very unique sacred tattoo design that not only reflected my client’s life, but took me along on his epic journey in heart and spirit. I’m filled with emotion right now as I write this, so this will likely be a short post on this very powerful piece.
It wasn’t until the design came to closure that I suddenly was hit with the energetic magnitude of it.
This happens often, as while I am in the midst of channeling, I am in that suspended place of receiving and bringing forth. It is at the end that all that came through and manifested, suddenly integrates into experience. And when I step back to take it in, all of the encoded layers really knock on my heart.
Interestingly, I received the request for this piece and read the story while I was in transit, traveling. Very apropos, as you’ll read why.
I also have found it very interesting that this is the fourth sacred tattoo design that is connected with Africa. I have recently helped co-create three designs for male clients who live in Africa, and one that has a very strong connection to Africa and had been traveling there while I was creating his design.
Again, I’m not sure what the full meaning of this is, but I’m honored to be part of these journeys and to be assisting energetically in supporting transformational shifts in that part of that world. I also understand there is meaning for my soul history in this region from things I know in my past, which is why I have felt called there at some point soon too.
Anyway, needless to say, this was a beautiful journey and here is a little about the symbolism.
I took in the energy of my client’s journey and incorporated the specifics he wanted in a way that would emulate the essence of his desires and more. St. Christopher was one of those elements, along with a map of Africa. In the process, I came to see how much St. Christopher is part of his life, and in many ways also symbolizes an aspect of my client. He has carried with him a medallion of St. Christopher since he was one year old, given to him from his grandfather.
A little about St. Christopher: He is the Patron Saint of travelers whose name means “Christ carrier.” St. Christopher is depicted as a tall, robust middle-aged bearded man carrying a staff and Christ child on his shoulders as he wades across a river. He devoted his life to carrying people across an impassable stream and one day a child appears who asks to be carried across too. Surprisingly, the child steadily increases in weight as Christopher carries him across until the point his tiny burden becomes almost too heavy to bear. He then asks the holy child why he weighs so much, to which the child replies that he carries the weight of the world’s sins upon his shoulders. As a reward for his service, Christopher’s staff is miraculously transformed into a living tree, and Christopher himself became the Patron Saint of travelers.
As mentioned, there were many layers to this design, including St. Christopher. The child carried also symbolizes my client’s son, along with aspects of himself…the child who was born in Africa, his inner child, and the child at heart that has returned to Africa – both integrating healing at this time. St. Christopher’s robe flows as the outline of Africa on the left, he looks up at the child, but also up and towards Africa. The child holds the Earth globe in his hands, as the future of the Earth is in the hands of our children, but also as they say, the child replies that he is so heavy to St. Christopher because he is carrying the world’s sins upon his shoulders. The fact that St. Christopher is standing in the water, to me not only depicts his carrying people across waters in travel safely, but also is symbolic of cleansing and renewal, which is what my client is experiencing on his journey and what he is assisting in support of Africa’s people. His journey of helping to link tiny villages and communities for assistance through the bridging of roads is supported and protected by St. Christopher.
Within the map of Africa I also faintly made it somewhat topographic, but also the shadings could be seen as roads, as well as veins and muscle. I wanted Africa to feel alive and pulsing, the way my client explained her to be. So the way I drew it was to emulate almost a heart and veins and blood. I wanted to depict it as he felt it to, beneath the skin, part of him, and emerging out of from under his skin – and also creating in effect, an ancientness of his Mother country.
As my client shared, he feels Africa to be “under my skin and her dirt runs through my veins.”
He also explained that they have a saying there that the reason the soil is so red in Africa is because of all of the blood that has been spilled on her. He shares, “I believe this could be true, but I also have never seen kindness anywhere in the world in all of the places I have traveled to, as the kindness you will find in Africa.”
The whole piece is very “epic” in nature – passing down a legendary story of his life and a piece of Africa’s essence, through his spiritual skin.
As the title of my book goes, “Spiritual Skin – Sacred Tattoos: More than Skin Deep.”
This tattoo really emulates the spirit of this meaning. I am beyond grateful to walk with each soul on their journeys. It is TRULY an honor.
In Lak’ech Ala K’in
If you would like to partner in co-creating your own sacred tattoo design to embody the empowerment you desire, you can contact me at tania@spiritualskin.com.
For more information about the process and pricing please visit: What is a Tattoo Design Consultation
Some people have preferred to read my book, Spiritual Skin ~ Sacred Tattoos: More than Skin Deep, especially if they are new to sacred tattoo designs, before embarking on this journey.
If you are drawn to learn more about sacred tattoos you can order a copy of the book here: Spiritual Skin
It is also available in Kindle and PDF formats here: Spiritual Skin
Shape-Shifting Sacred Tattoo Design: A Shaman’s Magickal Journey of Emergence
Back in the sacred tattoo design energy flow again, with several powerful pieces emerging. So many of these latest designs are holding amazing shaman, animal medicine, and shape-shifting energy. I love it, love the energy of each of the soul’s they are channeling through, and I am loving how the visions manifest into being!
The shamanic energy really feels prevalent right now, as more and more people are revealing and honing in on these gifts in a focus of return to natural harmony with Mother Earth and the Cosmos as their powerfully integrated selves.
Today’s Spiritual Skin focus is just that – A Shaman’s Magickal Journeyof Emergence. I am officially claiming that I fall in love with each piece I have the honor and pleasure of working collaboratively on and with each I continually uncover the bountiful creative expressions of the collective heart.
This design integrates several powerful symbolisms that mirrored my client’s essence self along with her journey of deeper personal and collective opening in heart service and empowerment.
I always listen and allow myself to be guided to what best hones in on the particular energy in the now moment and that embodies most supportively what would be empowering for each client.
Many times I have much to draw upon and much that is shared beautifully in our interactive consulting dialogue, and so it is always important that I fine tune in to just which frequencies are sharing their music most prominently. Some times I receive images and symbols that are not shared and they become space holders for the new energy, are symbolic of parts of their essence they hadn’t been focused on, and/or end up revealing things my client had forgotten to share or had significance in ways at the time were part of their journey into discovery.
In the case of this one, there were stand-out images and symbolism that definitely came through and I loved how everything wove together like a fine and intricately beautiful web of expression.
Many times, like with this design, I receive images and visions before I hear specifics from my clients, or have read what they have shared. I love when they are reiterated literally or in energy through their expressions.
One of the images that hadn’t been revealed in consulting, but came into being with this piece was the swallowtail butterfly.
Aside from the swallowtail having the butterfly symbolism mentioned below they also are symbols of innovation, which in part came from studies on the reflection and scattering of light by the scales on their wings, which led to the innovation of more efficient light-emitting diodes – LED. Who knew?! They are also butterflies of fairly open country and wide ranges of migration – freedom adventurer travelers indeed. And, with at least 550 species, members of the family are found on all continents except Antarctica making them quite a collective and eclectic butterfly family. The family also includes the largest butterflies in the world, the Birdwing butterflies of Australia. Swallowtails are different in a number of anatomical traits from from all other butterflies, most notably, their caterpillars possess a unique organ behind their heads, called the osmeterium. Not only are they diverse, visionary, and adventurers, but they are highly unique beings with an extra bit of brain power! 🙂
Needless to say, butterfly medicine came through instead of some of the other literal image depictions that had been conveyed, in a burst of vision where a swallowtail unveiled its wings as the unfurling of my client’s “beingness.”
Butterflies are messengers of powerfully transformative healing and regenerative energy and symbolism to the indigenous peoples across time. They symbolize the precious miracle of life, hope, love, transmutation, magick, joy, reincarnation – to the Maya, butterflies are seen as ancestors returning for a visit to physicality and have a very earth and cosmic bridging connection (ex: the galactic butterfly symbol – Hunab Ku powerfully broadcasts your reaching to actively join the consciousness of our galaxy), resurrection, transition, communication, celebration, lightness, time, soul, unquestioning embrace, freedom, keeping the faith, grace…phew!…it felt to be speaking to another aspect of my client in this greater expansion sense with her shifting work, community sharing, spreading of her wings in deeper ways of service and heart-deepening, more and more.
I also love this sharing about Native American Butterfly Legends by Denise Handlon titled Butterflies – Symbols of Life and Hope:
“Some tribes in the Native American culture believe that butterflies can take one’s wishes up to the Great Spirit. Capture a butterfly, whisper your wish to it, and release it to the heavens. It is believed that all wishes will be granted in gratitude for the freedom of this delicate creature. Other Native American stories include the story of the ‘Children who refused to walk’. In order to get the babies to move from four legs to two a handful of pebbles were thrown into the air and as they scattered they changed into beautifully colored butterflies. The children were so delighted they jumped up and began to chase the butterflies.
Some people believe that the Fancy Shawl Dance, as exhibited in ceremonial Powwows, is believed to have been derived from the ‘butterfly dance’. It is the story of a young butterfly whose mate was killed in battle. After removing her beautiful wings she wrapped herself in a drab cocoon and isolated in her lodge. Family and friends stopped by to console her, but she was wrought with grief. Not wanting to be a burden to her tribe she took her wings and medicine bundle and journeyed far and wide.
As she travelled across field and streams, she stepped lightly on each stone, her eyes downcast. It was in this way that she spotted a beautiful stone and her grieving heart was healed. Filled with gratitude for a new life of joy and renewal, she shrugged off the cocoon unwrapped her wings and began to dance a joyful dance.
When she arrived back to her tribe she told her People of the journey she took and the healing stone she discovered. In celebration, the People danced to celebrate a new beginning. To this day, the butterfly dance is danced using brightly adorned shawls in The Fancy Shawl Dance.”
The butterfly that emerged in this particularl sacred tattoo design also portrays that integration and centeredness with having one foot in each world of physical and nonphysical and setting the heart a-flight with the way my client is bridging with her work and travels.
Depicted is a Native American Indian shaman/medicine woman shape-shifting collectively as all of what she embodies and portrays, but remaining individually unique simultaneously. I created her to look somewhat lion-like in facial featuring, as well as brought in some of the deer power animal essence through her facial energy, which had been another aspect of this client’s guides. She wears feathers, perhaps of the eagle or owl in her hair (again more of her guides), entwined twigs and leaves of Mother Earth, and her caped shawl with lion main emerging reminds me almost of the furry bear garments of the Native American Indians (bear and lion both also guides). But the stand-out was the lion and he emerges from her heart and throat chakras –his main and her hair and shawl all merging and integrating, his face doubling as the curvature of her neck and breast, and as the support system of the shoulder area and upper body standing in strength.
At the solar plexus a lotus essence almost like ethereal fire, emerges atop the butterfly with energy integrating into the lion’s mane, her hair and shawl. The swallowtail at the lower 2 chakra areas being released and freeing its creative abundance and joyful breadth of life-giving. Her hands are embracing of letting go within the power of knowing all is within to work alchemy as the magician, shaman and medicine woman that she is.
I see the depictions of all the elements here of earth, fire, air, water and spirit in symbolism.
This sacred tattoo was seen as energetically most supportive on the back – in that upper back area of the heart, higher heart chakra, just below the base of neck to really open and deepen those energies being shared in service and emanating at heart and soul.
I like to let the image reflect to each person what they receive from it, as there is so much more that unveils over time and to different eyes and open hearts than what I could possible share or see. I am in sort of channel trance of receiving when creating so I don’t always piece it all together until it actually manifests. I merely hold the essence and visions at heart until then. My service is to be a conduit for the image to come through and to integrate and weave it into its symbolic form as Spiritual Skin.
This piece of course is hugely rooted in shamanism, centeredness, balance, groundedness, empowerment, expansion, opening, releasing and honoring, as well as deepening emergence. Always so many layers that are much “more than skin deep” images.
If you would like to partner in co-creating your own sacred tattoo design to embody the empowerment you desire, you can contact me at tania@spiritualskin.com.
For more information about the process and pricing please visit: What is a Tattoo Design Consultation
Some people have preferred to read my book, Spiritual Skin ~ Sacred Tattoos: More than Skin Deep, especially if they are new to sacred tattoo designs, before embarking on this journey.
If you are drawn to learn more about sacred tattoos you can order a copy of the book here: Spiritual Skin
It is also available in Kindle and PDF formats here: Spiritual Skin
Diving Deep into the Inspirational Abyss – Creative Energy & Expressions Are Flowing!
This photo taken by my friend Lynne on the Santa Monica Pier last week of me in my french beret had me rolling in laughter. Not only do I look like a little girl, but it just so captured the abundant inspirational feelings I have. Not to mention some odd unidentified flying object is to my right unbeknownst to me in my play time. LOL
Maybe it’s all that beautiful ocean energy and nature I’ve been immersed in lately, the retreat in Bimini, the unlimited Source-well of creativity and inspiration I feel connected to evermore so, or simply “being in the flow,” but another huge creative wave has arrived and I”m ready to surf it through what ever waters, and to what ever shore, it takes me. 🙂 Right now, I’m feeling a lot of high-vibed flow with all this creative energy and magickal experiences, an invigorating hike today, and some new Andara crystal friends sitting on my desk – woo! Yes I am loving this energy. Are you?
This year seems to be a supportive year for “seeing” the beauty in the miracles of life around us and sharing beauty with the world through our individual gifts. It’s a wonderful time for cultivating creative new endeavors, being the Michelangelo of your own life, and diving deep into the inspirational abyss.
I have SO been enjoying seeing all the new creations that others are manifesting lately and all the new leaps everyone is taking. I LOVE it! There is SO MUCH talent out there and it’s so amazing to me to see people come into realizing that about themselves and what they have to offer the world. “Rocking it” is far from doing you all justice to say. The energy abound is simply stunning and it only gets better.
Just remember to create balance, nurture and recharge yourself, be gentle, remember to add “flow with grace” when asking for things, and love, without judgment, every minute and every part of your magnificence in creation.
To be creative means to be in love with life. You can be creative only if you love life enough that you want to enhance its beauty, you want to bring a little more music to it, a little more poetry to it, a little more dance to it. ~Osho
I have learned to flow with where I’m guided in any given moment, rather than dictate or create ideas of what that should look like. In doing this, I find stress removed, balance in my life, divine timing unfolding, and optimal ingredients for fulfilling outcomes on all levels. My intuition and heart are my guidance. My trust, belief, imagination, passion, and connection are my wings to get there.
The awesome thing is….you can never use up all of your creative juices! It’s one of the most amazingly abundant sources of energy that constantly recreates and reinvigorates itself and just gets better the more you courageously tap into your imagination and dreams and release all judgment and fear. The challenge is to keep evolving into greater depths of exploration in order to bring forth ever-new expressions. Nothing is done. There is always more to have fun with!
You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have. ~Maya Angelou
As you know, painting had taken a small hiatus at the end of last year for me, as I was working on other projects and preparations for Bimini. But I heard the message to wait until I return, as I would receive answer to what to create next, when I do, and where I would be led. For me, this is not unusual, as many times I have been guided to halt things until returning from sacred journeys, since the transformative energy changes the course of things and brings in new inspiration and messages – sometimes entirely new directions and life evolutions.
I have found that what is important to get done will be revealed and WILL get done and the rest will just happen as it needs to, or isn’t important to do in the first place. So by not rushing into it, it may actually end up falling away. Or, it comes back with more focused direction that is very clear and more aligned, by letting it percolate.
But, of course the innate artist within is never gone, even if on hiatus. She just takes takes the passenger seat for the time she needs to take everything in, recharge, reinvigorate, and learn to be a powerful presence in new ways. And with that pause, she is then ready again to bring forth the fruits of her labor.
Needless to say, alongside some of the other projects, events, and retreats for this year I’m working on, a sweep of creative excitement is abound. I am also in the middle of another cleaning-out phase and that also has great energy-shifting potentials!
I’ve been really enjoying the sacred tattoo design vibes coming in right now. The energy of the latest pieces are really mirroring the collective, as always, and I’m about to embark on a new round of designs that I’m excited to see what will be unveiled in the process. It’s always a welcome mystery and journey I feel deeply honored to walk with each client. <3
Yesterday, I found a coupon and was off to the store purchasing a bunch of canvases for this artistic surge explosion. I now have 13! canvases awaiting me. YAY! I love choosing canvases and letting them speak to me, as I feel the essence already trickle through their unique energy of what they want created on them. Four of these canvases will be to complete my Universal ARKitecture series and the other 9 are for new creative visions I’ve received. FUN!
Yes, you heard right. Only 4 more pieces left in the Universal ARKitecture series. This is one of the several shifts and messages I received from the Bimini trip. Originally, I felt there would be 33, but received there will only be 12 now and that likely they may become a calendar upon completion. As always, the conclusion remains to be seen, but 12 is the new number and 4 more are still to come. I’ve actually already received the 4 animals ahead this time as well, which is an interesting twist, as before they only came when I was about ready to paint. So this is very cool to already know and now just to let them emerge forth in their sequence.
The 4 will share owl, harp seal, bighorn sheep, and orangutan wisdom. I’m so excited, as they each have perfect messages for the now I feel. Looking forward to what they each have to reveal to me and the depths they will take me too.
An artist paints, dances, draws, writes, designs, or acts at the expanding edge of consciousness. We press into the unknown rather than the known. This makes life lovely and lively. ~Julia Cameron
Garden of the Gods by Tania Marie
In the meantime, don’t forget that prints and originals are available on the 8 paintings, already completed and widely embraced, in the Universal ARKitecture series. Several size options are available to meet your needs. You can read about each individual painting’s message here: Universal ARKitecture by clicking on each painting’s image to enlarge for detail and information.
Originals are available via payment plans to meet your needs with a full refund if not satisfied, minus all shipping charges. Special discounts are available with purchase of the whole series of originals, or more than one original. Contact me with questions and inquiries at tania@taniamarie.com.
To refresh your memory on the focus of these paintings, here is some information on the series:
Universal ARKitecture shares messages spoken through the many voices of the animal spirits of the Earth, focusing on many of the endangered and threatened species, uniting us through a Universal language of the heart. These sacred vessel animal spirit paintings hold antidotes for a new “ARKitecural” plan and code of life for creating the New Earth experience. An “ark” by definition and historical understanding was a vessel built by Noah to house and keep safe his family and pairs of every animal of the Earth. It is also known as a sacred chest where the ancient Hebrews kept the two tablets containing the Ten Commandments. In either form, it is seen as a sacred and protective structure that contained the promise of a new life where a new architectural system of life codes would be embraced and instituted to start anew. Shamanic practice honors the wisdom and power in all things on Earth, believing that everything has something to teach. These power animals act as guides to share their wisdom on how we can better cultivate awareness towards living consciously. Compassion demonstrated in care of these precious beings, as well as understanding their connection to us, helps nurture the Earth collective at large.
Every day is an opportunity to be creative – the canvas is your mind, the brushes and colours are your thoughts and feelings, the panorama is your story, the complete picture is a work of art called, ‘my life’. Be careful what you put on the canvas of your mind today – it matters. ~Innerspace
The remaining 9 canvases, as mentioned, are for a new wave of smaller, yet extremely powerful, energy creations that I will be starting shortly and in partnership with some of my favorite things. 😉 A new adventure awaits, as well as a deeper journey into the courageous heart of expression! I am very excited about these and have yet to know how they will come to be fully, but I trust the “how” follows my embracing the “Yes, I’m in!” I sense these will be a synergistic partnership highlighting a special connection shared, where subject becomes guide and I am its loyal servant. Stay tuned for an upcoming blog on these new creations channeling through. Exciting!
A lot of these new creations will be featured in the upcoming April 11th RAW: Los Angeles Presents Marvel art showcase event. This will be such a fun night of indie artists from so many genres coming together in community sharing of their gifts. If you’re in the area, I really hope you can join us at the Belasco Theater, anytime from 6 – 10pm, and if not please share your appreciation for the arts with a ticket purchase, as the proceeds go to supporting the indie artists.
Details at the link or you can support directly here: RAW
I’m about to head off this weekend for a week in Reno and Lake Tahoe (visiting one of my absolute favorite spots on the globe, the family, and celebrating, as well as pre-celebrating three of our birthdays that are all close to each other), which I know will prove to be very inspiring and revitalizing for me to be in the magickal energies of the lake and to have fun in the beautiful alpine high altitudes I so thrive in. With the convenience of driving, rather than flying, this enables me to bring a few things along with me to explore my creative inspirations while there, including painting, reading, writing, and even making a couple of jewelry pieces for myself that I felt inspired to create from some of my natural treasures discovered. No, this doesn’t mean I will be taking up making jewelry myself, but I AM going to have fun creating these shaman pieces I am guided to make.
I’m very much in the creative flow and I LOVE it! The deeper I go, the more possibilities are available. I have always believed all things are possible and will never accept anything less.
What do you desire to create anew today? Perhaps the reinvention into a courageous heart could be the most valuable creation to begin with.
A truly creative person rids him or herself of all self-imposed limitations. ~Gerald G. Jampolsky
Only 1 More Week to Pre-Register for Accelerated Reiki Workshops & Yoga in New Jersey
February Accelerated Reiki & Yoga Workshops ~ Opening to Living and Giving from Your Heart:
Nutley, New Jersey Reiki Classes at Infinitive Wellness Sharanam Yoga Studio
Enjoy a loving weekend of Reiki and Yoga with Tania Marie and Venus Banguela
Beginning the day with Heart Enlightening Vinyasa Flow will be a beautiful way to become present in your experience, as you synchronize movement and breath to create that sense of wholeness. A perfect way to ready yourself for taking this experience of Oneness to the next level with your Heart Opening Reiki training, as you anchor yourself in the experience of your body and soul in preparation. Each day of this weekend will be a heart-full way to experience the new and to open yourself to living, giving and receiving in empowering ways.
About Your Teachers for this Weekend:
Venus and I connected in early 2011 when I had the honor to assist her in co-creating a couple of amazing sacred tattoo designs for her, one of which she just had finalized into full color (pictured here)- gorgeous! We had an instant resonation and magickal things just ignited through our journey together during the process and beyond. We discovered a heart resonance and have continued our beautiful connection since, which led us to co-collaborate on creating this offering in the spirit of co-creation, heart service, and community sharing. We hope you will enjoy the meeting of our hearts with yours.
Venus Banguela: Venus Banguela, founder of Infinitive Wellness Sharanam is a Certified Yoga Teacher specializing in Vinyasa Flow. She is also a Holistic Health Coach specializing in nutrition and lifestyle wellness. Her yoga teaching style is full of fiery passion and gentle compassion, with a heavy focus on alignment. She is passionate about consciously connecting one with their inner divinity as well as incorporating Ayurveda (the Science of life and the sister of yoga) and all aspects of the sacred teachings. Her classes tend to bring a calming effect to her students allowing de-stressing from our fast paced society to occur. Venus has been practicing yoga for over 10 years and has felt yoga’s healing properties first hand. Meditation, chanting and yoga philosophies have been a large part of her journey toward wellness. She has pursued teaching in response to her need to share the many beautiful experiences and benefits she has been blessed to have encountered. Venus received her 200-hour yoga training from Joschi Yoga Institute in NYC and her Health Coach training from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. She believes wellness is a birthright for all to enjoy and that yoga, nourishing food and lifestyle is the path in reaching it. Venus will forever be a humbled student of life. As one lesson is learned, endless ones await.
Tania Marie: Tania Marie is a Reiki Master Teacher and intuitive healer who has taught this healing art to many students from around the world. She is a skilled, experienced practitioner who has lovingly supported countless people globally with healing and empowerment and regularly uses Reiki in her own life to achieve desired intentions. Tania is also a visionary artist, designer, author of Spiritual Skin, world traveler and CEO of Emerald Bridge. Her devoted passion and service are to focus on heart-based services and offerings intended to help support global peace and a return to natural harmony within and without. Her commitment to integrative healing, both personally and collectively, has led her across the globe to many exotic lands and energy portals. An adventurer at heart, she continues to explore.
Where:
Infinitive Wellness Sharanam
145 1/2 Franklin Avenue
Nutley, NJ 07110
When:
Saturday, February 9th, 2013
Sunday, February 10th, 2013
Time and Schedule for Both Days:
9 am – 10 am Heart Enlightening Vinyasa Flow with Venus
10:30 am – 4:30 pm Open Your Heart with Reiki training by Tania
Pre-registration Prices for Reiki if Register by 1/21/13:
All 3 classes: $800 (savings of $200 off regular price of $1000)
Reiki 1 and 2 classes on Saturday: $333 (savings of $167 off regular price of $500)
Reiki 3 Master Teacher Class on Sunday: $555 (savings of $111 off regular price of $666)
If you Register for Reiki after 1/21/13:
All 3 classes: $900 (savings of $100 off regular price of $500)
Reiki 1 and 2 classes on Saturday: $400 (savings of $100 off regular price of $500)
Reiki 3 Master Teacher Class on Sunday: $600 (savings of $66 off regular price of $666)
Heart Enlightening Vinyasa Flow is optional at $15 for the hour long class that will precede your Reiki training. We highly recommend it to receive the fullness of intent and connection for this weekend from the gifts each teacher offers to your heart-opening experience on this journey.
Limited space so be sure to register early.
Please bring any snacks/lunch you would like and any particular refreshment needs. Tea provided.
Updates will be announced as time approaches.
Contact Venus at 732.6687480 or venus@infinitivewellness.com to register for Yoga
You can contact me at tania@taniamarie.com or 
775-343-9244 to register for Reiki
Secure credit card payments through Paypal accepted.
If you are interested in hosting Reiki Workshops at your studio or sacred space, have a group of people in mind that would like to receive teaching, or would like to co-collaborate on an event, retreat or weekend, you can also contact me at tania@taniamarie.com with your inquiries.
Reiki is a beautiful expression of unconditional love and service that can empower your life and unite you with others, as it bridges you together through the source of Universal Life Force Energy.
If you’ve been feeling the desire to connect more deeply with yourself and others, or needing loving support to help bring you back to wholeness from the intense shifts taking place in your life and around you, then taking a journey of the heart to help anchor in the acceleration of experiences, at the core, may be of resonance to you.
Reiki is one tool that can support this and is an option that perfectly mirrors the essence of this year.
Reiki has the ability to bring greater sense of self, clarity, empowerment, peace, joy, and deeper love and compassion. The focus is on learning, sharing, supporting and expanding your heart through Reiki (pronounced ray-key). The practice of channeling Reiki is an easy-to-learn, gentle and powerful system of natural healing that reduces stress, induces relaxation, supports intentions and provides many other healing benefits. The Reiki classes I offer are part of the Traditional Usui Shiki Ryoho Reiki Certification Training.
If you’ve been interested in taking a class and embarking on this life-changing and empowering path, then this weekend may be the perfect answer for you. Whether you are new to Reiki, have already been through some of the levels, are preparing to teach and want a refresher, or want to incorporate Reiki into your current healing practice, you will find these classes to be supportive and timely in terms of the now. If you have trained with another teacher that is no longer accessible for you, you can continue your training with me, if that resonates, after we discuss where you are at in your process and what would most be supportive in reflection of that.
In these workshops you will be trained, initiated, and certified in Reiki 1, 2, and 3, as well as enjoy practicing with the group and receiving valuable insights and personal attention.
You have the option of taking the whole accelerated weekend or just Saturday’s Reiki 1 and 2 classes or Sunday’s Reiki 3 Master Teacher class individually, depending on your desires and needs.
Non-local classes must be registered and paid for no later than two days before class begins, as I need to prepare all materials before traveling and know how many people will be attending.
Sacred Elephant Tattoo Design for the Heart Chakra
Sacred Elephant Tattoo Design for the Heart Chakra – Click on photo to enlarge
I’ve been so excited to see many of my clients having their sacred tattoo designs brought to life in the flesh this year. 2013 really seems to be an empowering opening for everyone and these Spiritual Skin symbolisms are helping the new energies to take form. I’ve enjoyed the images sent in, and shared, of finalized tattoos and tattoos in the process from my clients. It’s also been an honor to also see some of them in person.
The journey is always an individual one and based on a combination of divine and personal timing coming together synchronously. For this reason, some of the designs I helped co-create last year, are now just manifesting physically, but I’m also seeing the speeding up process, as my newest clients have all been immediately turning around their designs in ink!
This weekend I finalized the last of three sacred tattoo designs for 3 male clients I was working on this week. They have all been so powerful and really took me through quite a journey with each.
This last one is a beautiful marking point to end this energetic grouping with. It is the co-creation of the design work I donated towards a vegan-themed tattoo to the silent auction at Farm Sanctuary’s Animal Acres in Acton, CA, which helped raise funds to continue the dedicated work Farm Sanctuary does in rescue, education and advocacy.
All three of these recent pieces were large, this one being the biggest so far at 10 inches wide by 14 inches tall in measurement. It’s intended to sit center of the chest with head at the Heart Chakra, ear to ear spanning from nipple to nipple, and then trunk tapering down to navel. Pretty powerful and offsets a sort of Yin/Yang energy to my client’s full back piece.
After much reflection on the energies and ideas presented, I felt very drawn to only focusing on the elephant that you see pictured here, as it has such a presence and strength to carry the energy of the symbolism, without a lot more. Integrating layers and aspects within the elephant, representative of a personal soul journey inwardly evolving into manifestation, rather than outside of the elephant, felt resonating. It also felt aligned to keep this design on the more organic and realism side, with some elements of magical and spiritual more subtle rather than poignant, as my client’s back piece was.
Less was more in this area of the Heart Chakra to come from a place of simplistic, yet powerful truth.
I focused on the elephant, a Swahili word, Furaha – which means joy, musical resonance (the Treble Clef), the Sun and Moon depictions, and a Gerber “Daisy” to symbolize homage for my client’s beloved animal companion that bears that name. These came through as the most important aspects to represent and convey.
The elephant depiction is an artistic representation of a beloved photograph by Nick Brandt, a favorite photographer of my client’s. The background, when inked, will reflect (as only a hint in the design template shows) will be like the background in the photo, keeping the elephant in a natural environment, and yet there is a sort of surreal aspect in the desolate plane and the clouds, with the elephant so regally and powerfully present. Darkening the shading near and around the elephant and then diminishing/softening, as it extends out so it is like something materializing, is my vision expressed for how this will come into being when inked.
I placed the Treble Clef in the trunk. You can see it, but it is also worked into the trunk to be a little hidden. I felt since the elephant’s trunk is the way it communicates through sound, this to be a mirroring place, plus the fact we often hear of the elephants “trumpeting” their sound, hence the music overlay.
In the elephant’s right ear (left when facing) I worked into the elephants folds of the ear, the Gerber Daisy in homage to the animal companion in my client’s life named Daisy. And in the elephant’s left ear (right when facing) at the bottom folds I worked in the Swahili word Furaha that was very important also this client. I wanted it not to stand out like a sore thumb, but to look like part of the design. The sun and the moon I placed at the Third Eye/Crown Chakra area of the elephant. The crescent moon supporting and cradling the sun image above and overlaying it (both worked into the folds of the skin a bit) with a infinite spiral center. This felt to be a way to bring integration into the enlightenment aspect (and the journey of ascending , evolution, and centered power) of the elephant and focused and emanating energy. I liked having the sun and moon together in a sort of Yin/Yang balancing way. It also felt to be creating a very intentful energy when you gaze upon the elephant that draws in and gives out from the center of “beingness”.
Close up of integrated symbols into the elephant – click on image to enlarge
A little more on the symbolism involved, as I love to share how very intricate things are, even in their seeming simplicity:
The daisy (a symbol of gentleness, innocence and sweetness of life) in the right ear lends its energy to that of the left brain (which is our more male/analytical/logical part of brain). So the daisy brings this softening to that aspect and lends an “ear” to listening compassionately to others. The word “Furaha” in the left ear, associated with the right brain of (female/intuitive/creative part of brain), brings the essence of joy to this process when we wisely let these aspects guide us in integrated balance with our wisdom. Here we listen to all aspects of life in presence, both within and without, giving and receiving joy in the process of embracing.
The Treble Clef trunk lends its energy to speaking, communicating, engaging, sharing, from the music of your heart and in harmony and synergy with your trueness, as well as to and with others. Understanding there is a subtle musical essence in how we speak and in everything we create and these tones are important in relaying the core essence and energy behind what is shared. So it helps to be mindful of integrating the feeling with the action and having them vibrate and harmonize as one. To speak from your truth and to share your individual song with the world.
The sun and moon help to keep that presence of mind and intention and to stay balanced, centered, integrated, mindful, and having that gentle strength that exudes from within.
Here is some information on Elephant symbolism for anyone interested:
Marveled by the Chinese, Indians and Africans as the most auspicious symbol from the animal kingdom embodying strength, dignity, virility, fertility, prudence, wisdom and intelligence, the elephant is worshipped and honored, sacred and loved. In Buddhism, the elephant is one of the eight precious holy animals and the India God Ganesha (remover of obstacles) is pictured as having the head of an elephant – signs of revered greatness.
In Feng Shui, the Elephant is considered a sacred symbol. Although it is often used to symbolize power, wisdom, strength and fertility, it can also be used to symbolize longevity and success. It can act as the grantor of wishes and as the protector of the household. For most feng shui applications, the elephants are usually depicted with the trunk up, as this symbolizes the showering of good luck, prosperity and victory.
Elephant Wisdom:
Strength
Royalty
Connection to ancient wisdom
Removal of obstacles and barriers
Confidence
Patience
Using education opportunities
There is always more than meets the eye in how I piece things together, than simply a drawing or putting things where ever they fit.
I’m excited to see this come into manifestation soon and excited that James Spooner, Los Angeles vegan tattoo artist, will again be co-collaborating on this one. Fun! James will, as he does beautifully, add his own artistic flair and tweaks to the piece and it becomes, as each sacred tattoo design does, collaborative effort of all three people together.
If you would like to partner in co-creating your own sacred tattoo design to embody the empowerment you desire, you can contact me at tania@spiritualskin.com.
For more information about the process and pricing please visit: What is a Tattoo Design Consultation
Some people have preferred to read my book, Spiritual Skin, especially if they are new to sacred tattoo designs, before embarking on this journey.
If you are drawn to learn more about sacred tattoos you can order a copy of the book here: Spiritual Skin
It is also available in Kindle and PDF formats here: Spiritual Skin
Sacred Native American Indian Shamanic Tattoo Design
Sacred Native American Indian Shamanic Tattoo Design – click image to enlarge for detail
I just completed the second sacred tattoo design in a series of three separate pieces I’m co-creating with a few beautiful male clients. Wow! These guys are giving off the powerful energy! I’ve been in and out energetically the last several days, as I’ve been receiving and working with these energies that each has to share.
My client for this current piece I’m sharing messaged me today saying “I think you’ve been really busy because I can feel you around me.” 🙂
Little did he know today was the big day of revealing and I was finalizing his sacred tattoo design at that moment!
I love each piece I get the chance to work on, as they are all so reflective of the unique beauty of each person’s energy. And of course every time I create a new one it becomes my new favorite – let’s just say they all are, but for today, I am in love with this piece.
Perhaps it is my own connection with Native American Indian energy, Shamanism and Shapeshifting…or perhaps I just really enjoyed the manifestation of the story that unfolded.
Either way, this is a powerful and large piece (again a left, upper arm sleeve) that conveys my client’s resonance with his Shamanic soul connections.
It conveys Native American Indian medicine wisdom and powers specific to him and his guides.
You can click on the image to see more of the detail enlarged, as well as will get a hint of the 9 subtle stars I added around the main design. The intention is that the background be like the cosmos, with the stars peeking through the shaded areas by using negative space by shading around them. 9, for the completion of a cycle and for wholeness and the culmination of beginning anew.
This piece nearly brought me to tears when it fully manifested. I will let it speak for itself and hope you enjoy feeling the energy this beautiful soul has brought forth to integrate into his “Spiritual Skin.”
If you would like to partner in co-creating your own sacred tattoo design to embody the empowerment you desire, you can contact me at tania@spiritualskin.com.
For more information about the process and pricing please visit: What is a Tattoo Design Consultation
Some people have preferred to read my book, Spiritual Skin, especially if they are new to sacred tattoo designs, before embarking on this journey.
If you are drawn to learn more about sacred tattoos you can order a copy of the book here: Spiritual Skin
It is also available in Kindle and PDF formats here: Spiritual Skin
Sacred Samurai & Dragon 3/4 Sleeve Tattoo Design
Sacred Samurai and Dragon 3/4 Sleeve Tattoo Design – click on photo to enlarge
I just completed the first of three sacred tattoo designs I am in process of co-creating. These three new creations have been percolating the last couple of weeks, since my return from Bimini, as I have learned not to rush the process and that the perfect moment will reveal itself as to when the design can be channeled in its fullness.
These new designs are all being created with amazing male clients and each of these pieces are quite involved, large, and uniquely span Japanese, Native American Indian/Shamanistic, and African origins of essence. They are exciting to me because they feel to be symbolic representations of how each of my clients are empowering their Divine Female and Male into integration at this juncture on their life journey – a beautiful manifestation of the new energy we are in.
Interestingly, 2 of the clients live in South Africa and one has been traveling in South Africa. So they definitely feel energetically connected, despite their individual uniqueness.
Who knows…it may also be another confirming sign that Africa will be the next upcoming personal sacred journey (I have had a lot of Africa energy and connections taking place the last couple of years), as last year I had felt called there for this year, but the energy switched and Tibet came through, so hence I follow where I’m guided, as everything has a divine timing.
Regardless, I have been excited about these designs and today I share the first. The design is a large, just over 12″ long by 4 3/4″ wide, three quarter, left arm sleeve.
The focal points are the Samurai and the Japanese Dragon (Ryu). I added an extra boost of the element of water, based on what I intuited and my client shared, as well as interwove a very spiritually alchemical symbolism that holds much power for him in the celebration of essence he desired it to have.
For my client, the Samurai expresses the practices of discipline, respectfulness, loyalty and ethical behavior without fear – reminders symbolically to be able to face different and unexpected situations without fear and not to live in fear of loss.
Close up of Samurai and Dragon facing each other – click on photo to enlarge
I was drawn to depict a less armored Samurai than an example that I was shown by my client, still very traditional, yet for me and in resonance with the empowerment he was to symbolize. I felt this would represent moving into the courage in knowing all you have and need is within you, without the need to cover up and protect – a Samurai standing his ground, in the recognition of his power rather than in an angry fight. This symbolizing more of that Dragon Master or Magician essence that I speak about in my Reiki 2 classes where rather than fight something (although prepared for anything), you embrace its reflection as an aspect of you projected and when integrated back, creates wholeness and empowerment.
I added water designs all around the image to symbolize my client’s strong love for the ocean and to represent the ability to flow with the currents of life and be able to weather any experience by sailing through the ebbs and flows of the ocean energy with grace, rather than fighting it.
The Dragon, “Ryu,” rules the water and for my client represents obstacles humans face through life that must be overcome before enlightenment can be attained. So the Dragon represents much more than its literal depiction, but the many challenges, steps, surprises, obstacles, doorways one may experience on the journey of life. And how they are perceived and integrated can make all the difference.
Dragons are one of the four celestial animals and are more traditionally known to represent a very Yang energy of male vigor, courage, vitality, strength, and bravery. However, I feel the dragon to also possess a very mystical Yin energy, as a magickal being of cosmic forces. The Japanese dragon, which is what my client wanted designed, is much more slender and typically depicted as a large, wingless serpentine creature with 3 claws on each foot. Most Japanese dragons are water deities associated with large bodies of water and rainfall. Japanese dragons, interestingly, are a composite of nine different animals with chin whiskers.
- Deer – Horns
- Camel – Head
- Rabbit – Eyes
- Snake – Neck
- Cockle – Abdomen
- Carp – Scales
- Eagle – Claws
- Tiger – Paws
- Ox – Ears
I was drawn to design this beautiful dragon holding a ball, or “pearl of wisdom,” in its clawed foot. In reverence, Eastern dragons are sometimes shown holding a pearl, which can symbolize success, victory, wisdom, prosperity, achievement, and good luck. This felt to be a powerful, tying-in aspect to include for this sacred tattoo design.
I noticed after completing it that the flow of the design created double infinity signs, which was a very cool, natural unfoldment and another magickal aspect added to its energy. 🙂 In ancient India and Tibet this symbol represented perfection, dualism, and unity between male and female. In tarot it is linked to magick and symbolizes balance of various forces. It is also linked to the Ouroboros of cyclicality and enternal rebirth and recreation. In general it is the endlessness, abundant renewal, and eternity of Source.
This is a very empowering tattoo that depicts the mastering of the “Dragon,” as enlightenment is achieved, rather than a fight over or against it.
If you would like to partner in co-creating your own sacred tattoo design to embody the empowerment you desire, you can contact me at tania@spiritualskin.com.
For more information about the process and pricing please visit: What is a Tattoo Design Consultation
Some people have preferred to read my book, Spiritual Skin, especially if they are new to sacred tattoo designs, before embarking on this journey.
If you are drawn to learn more about sacred tattoos you can order a copy of the book here: Spiritual Skin
It is also available in Kindle and PDF formats here: Spiritual Skin