Prairie Dog calls me when it’s time to rest,

when it’s time to honor the internal quest.

I go into retreat so I may see

a way to replenish the potential in me.

          Prairie Dog medicine teaches that strength and inspiration can be found by retreating into the stillness that quiets the mind. The strength of this medicine is also knowing when and how to replenish life force. Prairie Dog medicine people tend to seek self-empowerment in silence and inactivity, where they can access dreams and visions without the intrusions of worldly chaos. When they re-enter the world, they are profound and powerful anchors of calm resolve amid life’s storms. The Prairie Dog runs for the tunnels when a predator is on its trail; in the winter, it conserves energy by hibernating during the scarce time of the cold moons. 

          If Prairie Dog has surfaced in your cards today, it may be a warning that your body fuel gauge is running low. You may need a day of silence or retreat from regular activities before you become too exhausted to carry on. Have you put your basic needs at the bottom of the “to do list”? Burning the candle at both ends may weaken the punch you can normally pack when tackling the tasks at hand. Take a much needed break before you crash and burn. Prairie Dog teaches you that, in order to access gifts of inspiration and renewal, you must be at peace with yourself and rested enough to recognize the blessings being offered.

          If you have been battling a situation without gaining ground, Prairie Dog reminds you that pushing too hard can create a resistance that does not allow for interaction. Take a break! Give it a rest! After a comfortable and relaxed time, you can return with a new perspective. In the meantime, the dynamics of the situation may have changed because your retreat allows the present challenge to work itself out. There’s ample strength available if you quit pushing and go with the flow. Prairie Dog says its tunnels runs both ways, now it is time to choose the back door exit for some rest and relaxation.

Medicine Cards by Jamie Sams and David Carson