As we take time to observe nature, we find examples of the abundance of feminine energy. Consider ants: they are very social and are involved in community endeavors. They share a common goal that serves the queen, who has wings and the ability to fly until her eggs are fertilized. After this process, she pulls off her wings and sacrifices her own flight for the sake of the newborn and the future of the whole colony. Building complex homes in the earth, ants represent the ability to ground oneself and to work together for the common good. 

Spiders, on the other hand, spend much of their lives alone—spinning isolated webs that are architectural marvels. The spider reflects the quiet center of one’s own world, which humans can access through meditative knowing and contemplation of the universe. In many cultures spiders symbolize mysticism and creativity, and their web acrobatics demonstrate the balance of past and future. 

Like ants, humans sometimes have social aims, with roles more or less defined by the collective goal. At other times, like the spider, we need solitude for our creative undertakings and to weave our own destiny. 

Each of these creatures reflects aspects of feminine energy that are important attributes for both women and men to cultivate—as they are crucial elements in achieving harmony and balance in the world. Feminine energy concerns: 

• Grounding oneself 
• Social relatedness 
• Nurturing self and others 
• Creativity 
• Self-knowledge 

We need the lessons of ants and spiders to rally the feminine energy that resides in us all. For healthy balance that supports the growth of self, others, and the world, it is essential we all participate in both ant and spider behaviors. Do you step out to engage in community endeavors at times? Do you allow yourself time and space for solitude? Does one behavior challenge you more than the other? As always, comments are welcome!