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Maybe the authentic recipes that your mom used to make for you are now staples in your own kitchen.
There are countless ways to live out your cultural pride, but it may be tough to know where to start. Scramble no more; if you’re proud of your Native American culture, tattoos are the perfect place to start.
Regardless of your culture, there is no shortage of stories or symbolism to learn about. If you come from a line of Native American people, this is all the more true. There are so many different tribes which all have their own colorful and rich histories. You might come from one of many Native American cultures like Cherokee, Navajo or numerous more.
However, the general style for the traditional Native American tattoo comes down to one common style and a few popular themes. A Native American tattoo is likely to include a majestic and stoic chief donning feathers, patterns, or other traditional items.
It could be the image of a fierce wolf, bear, or antelope. Native American totems are a great place to begin brainstorming for your tattoo because of all the information they hold. Whatever you want your Native American tattoo to say, there is absolutely a way.
Totems are made with different animals and their meanings in mind. Maybe you or someone in your family identify very closely with a certain animal’s totem. Maybe an ancestor of yours was a proud chief, and you’re dying to honor him.
This theme of tattoo is so greatly variable that it will inevitably completely unique to you. Each separate Native American culture is flush with amazing images and possibilities.
Most popular Native American tattoo design ideas
Different types of Native American designs to consider: 1. Dreamcatcher: A dreamcatcher is a Native American symbol that has long been used to protect sleepers from bad dreams and nightmares. This elegant tattoo design captures the intricate webbing of a dreamcatcher, with feathers, beads and other symbols often added for a more personalized look.
2. Wolf: The wolf is an important animal in many Native American cultures, representing strength and protection. A wolf tattoo can feature a single wolf or represent an entire pack, depending on your preference. Detailed designs depicting wolves howling at the moon or running through forests are particularly stunning when done in black ink.
3. Eagle: The eagle is considered to be a powerful symbol of wisdom and spiritual guidance among Native Americans, so it’s no surprise that this majestic bird makes for a great tattoo design choice! Eagles soaring in the sky or perched atop mountains make for particularly striking images when rendered in bold lines and vibrant colors – perfect for making an impactful statement with your body art!
4. Feather: Feathers have long been associated with honor, bravery and protection among Native Americans – meaning they make for excellent tattoo choices! From colorful peacock feathers to delicate hummingbird plumes, feather tattoos can be customized however you’d like for a truly unique design. Celebrate your heritage as well as your individual style!
5. Arrowhead : Arrowheads were historically used by indigenous people as hunting tools. They also act as potent symbols of courage and determination today. An arrowhead-inspired tattoo design can range from traditional art, featuring clean lines, to more elaborate compositions featuring tribal patterns or abstract shapes. Perfect if you’re looking to add some extra Native American flair to your body art!
6. Medicine Wheel: The medicine wheel is one of the most sacred symbols among native peoples across North America. This symbol is believed to represent harmony between physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of life. This meaningful design usually features four directions represented by different colored stones arranged in a circular pattern. Of course, adding additional elements such as feathers or beads, will help create your own custom interpretation.
7. Totem Pole: Totem poles are carved wooden sculptures that served both decorative purposes (to tell stories about history), as well as spiritual ones, (to connect with the spirit world). A totem pole-inspired tattoo design could include any combination of animals (including bears), human figures or abstract shapes. Honestly, whatever speaks most deeply to you on an emotional level.
8. Sun Symbol: To many indigenous cultures around the world, sunlight was seen not only as something necessary for life but also something sacred which could bring healing energy into one’s life. Native American sun tattoos come in all shapes and sizes, but often feature bright yellow rays emanating from its center. Thus, making them beautiful reminders of Mother Nature’s power every time we glance down at our skin.
9. Raven Symbol: Ravens are intelligent birds known throughout much of North America who have long been associated with everything from wisdom to transformation. This is simply due their mysterious behavior (such as their tendency to appear suddenly before disappearing just as quickly). Raven themed and Native American inspired designs are especially popular amongst women because they offer plenty of room for creativity, while also conveying faithfulnessand foresight.
Native American tattoo meanings and symbolism:
What do Native American themed designs mean and symbolize?: The symbolism of Native Americans has been an integral part of their culture for centuries. The use of symbols in the lives of indigenous people can be traced back to ancient times, when tribal nations used them to communicate messages and stories. Often passed down through generations, these symbols are a way for people to express their beliefs and values, as well as share knowledge and understanding with one another. As such, these symbols are incredibly important in understanding Native American culture and history before considering a tattoo.
One example of a symbol that is widely recognized by many different tribes is the circle. This symbol represents unity, continuity, eternity, and protection from evil forces. It is often used in ceremonies or rituals to bring about good luck or healing energy into a situation. Additionally, circles are seen as the connection between all things on Earth – both physical and spiritual – thus showing us our place within this interconnected universe we inhabit.
The eagle is another widely-recognized Native American symbol that holds deep meaning for many tribes across North America. Eagles represent strength and courage; they embody freedom while also reminding us that we must remain grounded in our respect towards others and nature around us. Eagle feathers have also traditionally been used by shamans during healing ceremonies as a reminder to think before speaking. Others view them as reminders to stop and deeply ponder before taking action so that no harm comes to oneself or those around them upon doing so.
The wolf is yet another symbol with strong connotations among Native American cultures; it represents loyalty, family bonds, intelligence, strength in numbers, protection from danger, and leadership skills. This powerful animal spirit commonly appears alongside other creatures such as bears or eagles in traditional storytelling.
Finally the rainbow – considered by some tribes to be a bridge between worlds, serves as an allusion to hope and faith after adversity has been experienced. It’s brilliant colors hold all sorts of meanings including: fire (red), water (blue), air (yellow) and earth (green). Rainbows also signify diversity and acceptance since they appear when light shines through rain droplets. This stunning design can signifying how beauty can be found even amidst challenging circumstances!
From communication to self expression, healing purposes and beyond, there all all sorts of historical Native American symbols and tribal themes to draw inspiration from. Connecting them more deeply with your unique land and ancestral heritage is perhaps one of the most important considerations before getting a tattoo.
