The Starfish (aka Sea Star)

We chose the starfish (aka Sea Star) as the symbol of our healing center for a number of reasons ~
the beauty and balance of its geometric shape, its non-centralized brain and senses, its ability to regenerate, its ability to sustain wounds and live on, its ability to change colors/patterns, and its range of vision. The starfish has two stomachs; one that goes inward to digest and the other that extends outward into the shared world. These are all powerful metaphors for the process of healing.

The starfish can be found in the seas and oceans all around this planet. There are many different types and they manifest in many colors, sizes and shapes, just like humanity. The starfish has various representations in mythology. There is an aboriginal myth that starfish assisted other animals in reaching their destination in Australia. There is the Egyptian line drawing that depicted both the stars of the sky and of the Red Sea with meanings of life purpose and the afterlife. There are other myths, such as the one about a boy who was throwing washed up starfish back into the sea. When asked by an old man why he bothered since he couldn't possibly rescue them all, the boy replied, as he threw one of the starfish back into the sea, " It made a difference for that one!" There is the story of the Star of the Sea or Stella Maris (aka Virgin Mary) who lovingly creates safe travel over troubled waters and is also seen as an emblem of salvation during trying times. Stars in general (and their earthly counterpart, sea stars) are celestial symbols in mythology and they represent infinite divine love, radiating in multiple directions. Other meanings of the star abound in mythology, such that they are seen as guiding lights in the dark night of the unconscious and of the the struggle between opposites (sun and moon) and of the planetary zones of the individual in his or her wholeness. The starfish has an androgynous shape, thus blending masculine and feminine characteristics, and it also holds meanings such as guidance, vigilance, inspiration, brilliance, and intuition. Since we, at Seaside Therapy Center, hold a vision for the honoring of diversity, the blending of opposites, and the inner wisdom of each individual, the image of the sea star is apt.

http://www.whats-your-sign.com/love-symbol-animal.html, http://www.spiracanada.com/spiralbound/2007/yule/totem.htm,http://egyptianmyths.net/star.htm, The Penguin Dictionary of Symbols by Jean Chevalier and Alain Gheerbrant, translated by John Buchanon-Brown 1994.


We thank you for the privilege of accompanying you on your journey towards wellness.