OCEAN ORACLE, SEASHELL DIVINATION

by Michelle "Shelley" Hanson
The study of shells, conchology, and of mollusks (the animals who create and inhabit shells), malacology, has provided the foundation for a wonderful tool for spiritual growth and inner awareness. If you will allow for the possibility that the beauty of shells extends beyond aesthetics, you will discover that Mother Nature communicates in a variety of ways.

A close examination of the mollusks quickly reveals evidence of great intelligence and compassion. One need only be aware that there is a mollusk who is unable to swim but compensates with a self-constructed raft, one who undergoes a small sacrifice to turn the tables on its predator, one who is a devoted parent, and one who rescues its comrade.If we turn our attention to the diverse ways they have interacted with man throughout history, we will find their contributions to art, science, architecture, religion, medicine and culture. Man's interaction with mollusks resulted in the vocabulary words "porcelain" and "purple", and a shell formed the basis of currency, as we know it today. In addition, shells and mollusks have inspired the design of the submarine, and contributed life-saving medicines.

Shell divination builds upon the science of conchology and broadens our horizons. By applying the unique characteristics of the animals' anatomy, behavior, and interaction with man, an individual meaning can be assigned to each shell. This is the foundation of the language of seashells. Through this method of communication, the shells address a range of topics including emotional healing, betrayal, abuse, heartlessness, inspiration, joy, clinging to a fantasy, blowing things out of proportion, selfishness and generosity, low self-esteem, challenging stereotypes, stubbornness, compassion, faith, and unconditional love.

Consciously, we are aware of just a fraction of our entire being. We carry hidden thoughts, feelings, and beliefs that, even if not at a conscious level of awareness, impact our lives. The shells aid us in gaining awareness of these hidden beliefs, and grant us the opportunity to change whatever limits or no longer serves us

A fundamental premise of metaphysics teaches that, since everything is composed of energy, at this basic level we are all one. When we aid each other in becoming as true to ourselves as possible, we are all enhanced. The shells work on an energetic level in concert with our Higher Self. No one knows us more intimately. It holds every private wound we have buried or forgotten and every event that led to a belief about the world and ourselves. By guiding us to an attraction to specific shells, the Higher Self is able to deliver its message calling attention to hidden issues impacting our lives. Should you find yourself drawn to a particular shell, please consider the possibility that your Higher Self is guiding you to work with this energy for a purpose. By exploring shells beyond their scientific value, it is possible to discover how shells assist us in navigating through life as a human being.



1  Fighting Conch

Meanining: Standing one's ground; self-defense

2  Pink Conch

Meaning: Listening to one's heart

3  Pink Mouth Murex

Meaning: Issues that stem from childhood; subconscious childhood beliefs impacting life choices

4  Quahog Clam

Meaning: Heart health, blood pressure, doctors, and hospitals

5  Razor Clam

Meaning: Compassion, sympathy, mercy

6  Sherbet Urchin

Meaning: Paying attention to one's diet, particularly regarding proper nutrition and vitamins

7  Slipper Shell

Meaning: Challenging stereotypes, pushing limits