April showers bring May flowers, and snails! Snails are invertebrates that are born in springtime, hibernate in the winter, and are most active by the light of the moon. They live on land (desert and wooded), in water (fresh and salty), high up in trees or down on the soil: their adaptability is a trait all of us need in these uncertain and changing times! Mayans honored Snails lunar nature, which symbolized the endless process of death, life and rebirth.
Baby snails are actually born with a tiny piece of shell, which grows in stride with their soft bodies. When they reach maturity, the original shard is found at the center of the spiral. Spirals are cosmic in nature, representing spiritual development and wholeness. Snail spirals are born of the golden ratio: the most cherished symbol of sacred geometry. Thus they are symbolic of the highest form of nature’s perfection and beauty.
Snails are ancient beings that are admired for their self sufficiency: they carry their home on their backs, and produce endless amounts of slime that give them the ability to slide across any surface, which also protects their tender skin. Because of this, they have much to teach humans about trust: the ability to feel safe always starts with feeling at home in our own bodies and hearts.
Snails move very slowly, but can cross great distances over time. Thus, they are primary symbols for slow and steady growth. Manifesting our dreams can take great perseverance and time: most people give up before ever really getting started. Snails throw their whole body into their movement forward, and so should we when going after what really matters!
