My religion and my magical path do not include totem animals. I believe that the totem comes from First Nations practices, in America, and as I have no heritage of First Nations it is best, in my opinion, to stay out of it.
The concept of the totem animal has been present throughout the world for thousands of years. The concept of a main guardian animal spirit has been present in many different cultures, however some cultures don't have this concept at all as part of their views. There are even native tribes to the Americas that have this concept as part of their heritage and others who do not. Groups that have totem animals only use one main totem for a tribe or family, this means that every clan or family member has the same totem animal or head guardian. There can be other guardian animals or other natural occurring aspects of nature as sprits that aid a person over their lifetime and these spirit beings may come and go throughout the person's or practitioner's lifetime. These creatures come into one's life through different means like a dream, a brush, a sighting, a gift, etc, the possibilities are endless.
If one has always been drawn to a particular creature this may be a totem for you if it turns out to be the main energy you are working with for the duration of your life. Trust your instincts, look into your ancestral tree and see if their are any animals in a shield, crests, or other aspects of your family history. Meditation can also help you connect with the universal information you seek.
Mythical creatures have also been used, it was common to use the dragon in protective symbols of the past.
Totem animals are some of the most ancient energies out there. Yes I have medidate on them and they have answered. They help you find aspects of yourself you either need to heal or realize.
