Year of the Snake: Transition and Healing

Serpent symbolism is a near ubiquitous motif that stretches across all geographical lines and historical epochs. It is commonly associated with issues of spirituality and healing, and its influence is most apparent in ancient matriarchal civilizations. The serpent is a symbol that embodies feminine qualities such as patience, receptivity, intuition, compassion, communication, nurturing, and emotional awareness. Unlike the black and white masculine, it is comfortable with uncertainty and ambiguity. Like the kundalini serpent goddess sleeping at the base of the spine, our feminine potential lies waiting to be awakened, ready to exert its healing and balancing effect upon patriarchal societies that live by the sword and die by the sword.

As we shall see, a fascinating paradox is embodied in the idea that the energy of the serpent contains both the power to wound and the power to heal. The solution is within, waiting to be accessed by those willing to take the risk. Here at the threshold of the Year of the Snake, all healers can benefit from becoming cognizant of the implications of the time, and the power inherent in the energy of the serpent.

The field of psychotherapy recognizes the appearance of snakes in dreams as common occurrences, especially in times of great transition. They are often harbingers of pent-up psychic energy looking to be expressed in more constructive and creative ways. They symbolize the possibility of transformation as old ways are shed in favor of the new, just as a snake sheds its skin. Thus, the grudge held against a loved one, for example, becomes an opportunity for forgiveness. An indigenous cultural perspective would view such a dream as more than just symbolic imagery of the unconscious. Rather than a mere dream, it would be considered an energetic manifestation or actual visitation from an animal spirit, a potentially powerful ally to be honored and consulted.

read full article here.