As a furry and otherkin myself, I loved this! I like it when people post informative videos like this. It helps get rid of some of the unknown for people who don't know about folks like us :)
I loooove that you wrote “who” in your title. So often I’ve seen “what” even though they are indeed a who! I’m not otherkin personally, but it’s so nice to see people being kind about stuff like this instead of distant and rude.
Amazing video Stormi, I'm so proud of you! I loved how the neruodivegernt umbrella graphic included DID and OSDD, I don't see that often. It's so interesting how otherkin have been around since the 1970s, as elves specifically. Red anon made a lot great points. Circling back to neruodivegerncy, I think a video like this on neruodivegernt furries would be a great idea, but not just solely focusing on autistic people and people with ADHD, but interviewing those with other conditions such as schizophrenia and dissociative disorders as well.
I'm a long time furry who realized I am otherkin (dragon specifically) relatively recently. I have a ring tailed lemur fursona, but I don't use her that much anymore. Now that I have a strong enough concept of my appearance as a dragon to draw myself, I kind of use my kintype instead. There isn't so much a sona or even a separate "her" because the ice dragon is literally just me, my spirit self, my soul. It's the feeling of connection and rightness I always felt missing with fursonas and that kept me cycling between many of them for over a decade.
As a dragonkin, I really liked this, and I would be happy to help out if anyone has any questions or wants clarification. I've known I'm otherkin for decades and could have used the term sooner had I known of it. As such, I like to think I have plenty to share. The clear statements that there is overlap among individuals using different terms, but each group is entirely distinct, was very well done. As for having trouble describing Otherkin more definitively, I would recommend breaking the group down into smaller groups. Each sub group has their own micro-culture and community spaces, for example.
Hi! I've been debating my identity as someone who could possibly be otherkin. I feel I relate to many of the otherkin experiences. I feel a close connection to dragons and feel phantom limbs. My emotions/behaviors feel more akin to dragons. My problem is- it's hard for me to believe something without proper proof. And that disconnect in my belief of dragons throws me off. I don't feel as much of a literal spiritual connection. Could I still consider myself otherkin? (to elaborate, I don't think dragons *couldn't* be real, I'm just... neutral to the possibility of dragons existing). (I hope you don't mind me asking in the comments ^^;)
@@monsterteef It's okay. If I had any issues answering such questions here, I wouldn't have offered to answer them. You're fine. }:=8) As to your issue, I had similar difficulty with my spiritual beliefs as a dragonkin for years. Doubt and agnosticism caused me to reject it repeatedly, but my inner self kept insisting, and I eventually found acceptance that it might be irrational, but nonetheless, it was part of me. I can't tell you what is true for you, only you can discover that for yourself. But one thing I would say is that an absence of proof is not proof of absence. Another thing that may ease your mind and wasn't touched on in the video as much as the spiritual aspect is that for some, it's a more psychological identity. Some otherkin identify *with* their kin type rather than *as* it, and for many of them, it's for exactly the reasons you express. If your "inner self" feels like a dragon, even if you feel like it's all in your head, that's okay! I welcome you with open wings. When I first joined the community, one of the examples listed for a possible route to being 'kin was an ancestral connection, referring to the belief in imperial China that the Emperor came from a bloodline founded by a dragon, which is why only the imperial family could use a five-toed dragon as a symbol or on their clothing. And if that alone is enough for a person to be considered dragonkin, you certainly qualify. But like being furry, it only counts if you claim it for yourself, and it feels right. It's perfectly okay to still feel hesitant and conflicted, but it's also okay to realize a deeper truth later and change what you call yourself. So tell me, friend, are you one of us?
@@thassalantekreskel5742 I've thought on this and everything you've explained to me feels right. My inner self has felt like this for a long time. I think I can comfortably say... I'm dragonkin! I can't thank you enough for helping me find this part of myself ^^
I’ve never heard of Otherkin before, and now after seeing this video, I kinda understand it to a point, but might need to do some research myself. But overall, this is a very interesting topic and would love to hear more about it someday. And as always, great video! Much love!
Thanks for making this video stormi! I may not be therian nor otherkin myself but your video was really informative. Once again, thank you mommy stormi
Wow Stormi! This video was absolutely amazing and so informative! This is the perfect follow up to the Therian video you did! I can tell you put just as much effort into this one as you did with that one! I also appreciate that you used the same format with research and interviews as you did in the Therian video! It's great to see that you're keeping up with the consistency and quality of your content that you've set for yourself! Also that little "beginnakin" pun you said at 0:52 really caught me off guard and made me laugh! I love how even when it's an informative and serious video, you always find a way to sprinkle a little bit of your humor in, which you also did at the 5:02-5:07 mark with TikTok! That was a clever little roast and a great way to transition to the interview portion of the video! I can definitely see why this is one of your most difficult videos you've made as you said at the end! The topic of Otherkin is SO MUCH more complex than therianthropy, and the fact that they overlap as well is quite fascinating! I haven't heard of the term theriomythic until now, so that was very eye opening! I can tell this took a lot more time to put together than the Therian video with how much longer the research portion of this one is compared to that one! And just one more thing. I noticed there was a bit of static noise interference coming from your microphone, which is a bit distracting, but not so much that it takes away from the video. Just wanted to make you aware so that you can address it for your future videos. Keep up the great work as always! I look forward to seeing whatever you put out next!
I love these in depth videos Stormi, it's fascinating to learn about other kin and other subjects that go beyond our own reality. Keep up the great work.
Hello Stormi!! Lovely editing, it's top tier every video. 🥰Like with therians, the spiritual side of it sounds so beautiful to me (7:45) . It's really sad that people assume they are abusers or mentally ill. 💔I was wondering if you'd be willing to talk more about fictionkin at one point? It's really interesting to me as someone who had a similar experience to those who are fictionkin. In my case, it's because I have had fictive alters, but there are some similarities like phantom feeling, but instead they're "phantom memories!" I do appreciate the amount of respect and research that goes into these videos, keep it up! 💙
Excellent video, Stormi! Everything you said is pretty much spot on. So many of the interview answers people wrote very closely match my own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. (furry & therian here, and one of my good friends is otherkin) Those who are not therian/otherkin will never understand what it's like to have that different sense of self perception.
In alchemy, a seven-sided star can refer to the seven planets which were known to early alchemists, and also, the seven alchemical substances: fire, water, air, earth, sulphur, salt and mercury.
Wow this was very interesting I did not know about otherkin. Congratulations on this video even though you said it was a one to make. I’m proud of you girl keep up the great work. Stay safe and stay frosty
Coming to terms with being otherkin is such a special experience to me. I've managed to find ways to overlap my life and my identity. It has turned my own life around and for that I will forever feel free grateful I stumbled upon a video about otherkins. I have never felt more myself being myself. I hope more people see this video, its very informative.
Some mythic otherkin like dragons consider themselves therians, as separating real-life animals to mythological animals can feel a bit arbitrary when we're talking about identifying as a non-human creature. So there can be a lot of overlap between otherkin and therians. Anyways, great video!!
Hi!! It'd be cool if you maybe made a video about fictionkin and maybe even more "obscure" types of alterhumans like plantkin, objectkin and conceptkin and others!! Please and thank you!!
That is an amazing video Stormi. As you taught me more about the otherkin community that I didn’t know using sources. And you know, IDK if I do identity myself as an otherkin. Even though I don’t like saying “out of suit” even if it’s out of kayfabe but at the same time, maybe I am an otherkin and a furry because I identify as a reptilian humanoid in a human suit or vessel. And even at times I identify as actually my fursona and it’s the human me that is alias. But you know what, thank you so much for teaching more about this community Stormi and others as it is interesting to learn about.
Not otherkin myself, but I do experience phantom limbs (claws, teeth, tail and horns) sometimes. That's why my sona is part wolf part dragon, to have these traits. Might be an autistic trait I have though (no diagnosis, but tested)
This video makes me wonder how much if any did Dungeons and Dragons play into Otherkins. As we all know DND is basically Roll Playing as Mythical creatures in a way. Which is why I wonder if there is any connections there or not. I also need to look up starseeds so I can find out what that means.
I was thinking that too when Elves were mentioned. From what I remember, I think "starseed" is specific to space, the term starseed refers to being a "seed" from the stars.
I'm sure that plenty of otherkin find euphoria in playing RP games such as DND, but that's about as far the connection goes. Otherkinity isn't rp, and DND rp isn't an identity. I'm sure there are tons of otherkin who have kin that are from DND tho and didn't discover otherkinity until they "took on" the "identity" of something other than human
@@AvoidableScurvy Quite true. D&D, like any media with a fantasy element, is just another way an otherkin might find their "aha!" moment, leading to a proper awakening.
Neat vid! I'm curious, in your research and conversations did you get the impression that folks taking up the 'otherkin' label but also hang around in the furry community tend to be one thing or the other first? I've never considered myself otherkin, only furry, but since I'm a dragon and there *are* spiritual and identity components to that (but nothing super solid or consistent), based on the definitions presented, it's something of a grey area.
@@VRMS_VRMS_VRMS As a dragonkin, I can say that it's perfectly okay for you to claim the label for yourself if it feels right to you. Your draconic self might be different from your dragon fursona, which even small differences can create a bit of a blockage toward acceptance. As for being 'kin first or furry first, I've seen both, and neither seems exceptionally more common. It's all down to which group the person happens to discover first. I, myself, had been part of the furry fandom for years before I had my awakening, but the dragon in me was different from any of the characters I had portrayed. The solid feeling of "this is me, and all of me" was what made the difference between my dragon-self and even other dragons I'd rp'd online.
Amazing and awesome video info. Love it, you and proto did a heck of a job here. Awesome research gone in. I am jot other kin but I am semi therian. At times, I feel I have a tail. Keep up the awesome job.
I used to think that otherkin were odd and unnatural. I saw that guy who bought a quad suit of a dog, and i used to think that he was delusional. After i found out about therianantophy, and later awakening, i did more research about otherkin and i can finally say i fully respect them❤
I don't feel like I learned much from this video, but that's entirely because my own identity aligns closely with Otherkin, specifically the Draconic and Shapeshifter types. Even tho I didn't learn much, I did enjoy the video a lot! I have a whole lot more to say on this topic, but to sum it up (not so) shortly: I've only considered myself a member of the furry fandom since roughly 2021, but I've known of the furry fandom since 2010. From 2010 to 2012 I used Second Life, and out of all the bad interactions I had on that program, not a single one involved anyone in the furry fandom. I actually do regret not joining the fandom back then, but that's because society as a whole had rejected me because I have ADHD and Autism, and so I in turn rejected the idea of socialization as "why would you do that when you just know they're going to build a fence and put you on the other side of it?". What a fool I was back then. Since joining in 2021 I've learned more about myself than I had in the 9 years since I stopped using Second Life. The furry fandom led me to learning what Therianthropy was, and then on to learning what this whole "Otherkin" thing was about. Back in 2021 I thought that my inability to create a unique fursona that had a different personality from my own was a failure of my own imagination, but when I learned about Therianthropy and Otherkin, I realized that it was not any kind of failing at all, instead it was just me finding a new way to describe what my truest self is. In any case, I figured out that my true self was always a Dragon. The trigger was me watching The Hobbit and seeing Smaug, but the character I created is much more closely aligned with the lore behind Metallic dragons from D&D. OK but why did I mention "shapeshifter" at the start of this? Well, part of the lore of the dragons from D&D is that they are able to shapeshift to any size or form they wish, at-will. Closest thing I have to a "religion" of any kind that I have is an (internally) sworn oath to Bahamut, draconic god of Justice, even tho in reality it's more of a "spirituality" than a "properly codified" religion. I get the "phantom limb" feelings that are often described by Otherkin and Therians multiple times a month, sometimes even multiple times a week. Sometimes it's wings, sometimes it's a tail, never really know day-to-day what it's gonna be, but the weird thing is that it always feels "more real than reality", and yet I am constantly (uncomfortably, even) aware that those feelings don't represent actual parts of my body. Overall I think the benefits of these phantom feelings outweigh the downsides, basically at the worst it's a "welcome distraction". As far as being able to match my mental self-image to my IRL physical form? Well, first off I know it can't happen, not without probably another thousand years of very directed research into genetic modification (which would probably need an unlimited budget besides). So the following is purely hypothetical: If there was a button I could push that would make my physical form match my internal mental self-image in an instant, without any "monkey's paw" or "genie wish" kinda meddling interfering, then I can't think of any timeline starting from today where I don't push that button, even if it causes me a lot of physical pain in that instant (If it doesn't hurt, that's great, but if that one instant of pain is more intense than any human has ever survived, then I'm still pushing that button). I even know the first few things I'd be doing if I woke up and found my outer physicality "aligned" with my inner mental self-image (mental self image staying constant, and physicality changing to match, that is). For legal reasons I can't really say much about that other than that I'd be trying to make the world a better place for most people.
As a dragonkin myself, I feel you did a very good job describing a common experience for many of us. Personally, having digitigrade feet, I also occasionally engage in toe-walking. As for your belief structure, just because you revere Bahamut as a personified archetype doesn't mean it's any less valid. I've heard of people who use superheroes in rituals in place of more generic archetype titles and gotten results, so if even that is valid, yours certainly is. I also identify with your body-swap idea. I would be next in line to push that button, no question.
Your video is awesome! The only thing I would slightly disagree with is therians only identifying as an Earthen animals. As far as I know, the term was originally and historically used to describe any animalistic identity. This means that, for example, a gryphon can call themselves a therian if they feel that this term describes that they are experiencing. I'm an alterhuman and questioning therian/otherkin, and I feel the same way towards the therian term. I partially see myself as a semi-sapient, semi-animalistic animal. My type is possibly non-earthen, but I feel that therian term fits my experiences with it better than otherkin, thought I'm still questioning my identity.
‼️QUESTION‼️ I thought therianthropy was for those who spiritually connect with an already existing animal (wolf, cat, lynx, etc) and otherkin were mythical creatures (elves, fairies, etc). Where do bipedal/anthro characters fall? Can it be either? Is there a separate terminology for it? Please feel free to share your views/experiences in the replies! Thanks! ^^
Hiiii! To be honest, I'd consider it otherkin myself considering therians are based in the real world. Although either label works, it's a matter of preference really!
Its not just a spiritual connection. It can be physiological as well. Its also more about identifying as that animal, not just being connected to them. Yes, mythical creatures CAN be therians too. My theriotype is a werewolf.
Good job stormi! I thought otherkin where somethinga bit diffrent, beinga bit more similar to therians, unless my brain just isnt clicking :3 im a furry and therian who was thimking they may be an otherkin but now i belive i am not! Ty for the video, ive been very curious about otherkina for multipile months
Big disclaimer though, for those who may confuse it, or use it as a reason to hate, you don't have to be trans at all to feel like you are otherkin/therian/etc, it's not a gender or trans thing. (I'm not otherkin btw)
I'm all of the above. I always used therian and otherkin interchangeably, but the irony is that I identified as therian before I was comfortable calling myself a furry. After I came out as nonbinary genderfluid years later, I falsely assumed that otherkin were just transgender furries who couldn't find the language to describe their identities any other way. I had to learn that these are all separate categories. They can overlap though, as they do in my case, which is probably why I saw little distinction between them. For me it's probably psychological in nature, as I'm neurodivergent autistic, and see myself as a shapeshifter.
I am a furry and an otherkin! I have multiple kintypes including the very common dragon and elf but I am also a sea serpent and a winged wolf those are more theriomythic to me. I know or I believe that these were past lives of mine oh and I am a forest spirit as well. Some of them have names like my storm dragon kintype is Kyzerrah he could talk and I have drawn him before, the forest spirit one was hidden for years as a fursona of mine with Oren being xir name but I now know xie had multiple names. The elf is Elenthil meaning either shining star or the point of a star, he is an elf from Tolkien's world he was a sindar/green elf from Doriath. That one revealed itself when I was reading The Silmarillion and when I got to Doriath it sounded familiar to me, he had a friend in Doriath: Ithillion who I met in this life as well. Online that is but it was great to know more about that kintype through memories he has of Elenthil, also I do not know if that actually is his name that is what I named him but it is very on point for us to have multiple names. Anyways if anyone has any questions about being otherkin, I am a spiritual otherkin and willing to answer any questions.
@@protowave It was really well researched but did not really touch upon spiritual otherkin but there was one that was interviewed. It is a good insight into otherkin and the interviews really helped showing the diverse view of the community.
im a furry And more likely an Otherkin, im a fairy, since I was a little girl I knew I was, and I do show them in my talents like art and mostly in my dances. I wear the outfit that I feel connection with and people Do tell me I looked like a fairy on stage. And that is how we should be, on the internet I see it so nice that one gets in a community and share their feelings and ideas, but irl it''s best to Show not tell in various forms that comes from the heart (avoiding of course forcing it or trying to do something that the human body just cannot
Before I became aware of the knowledge pertaining to otherkin, therian; I knew that I am a otherkin of a dragon, but with sentience. If the reality of the Wings of Fire universe was possible then I’d be a dragon that resides with those dragons. I have art. Due to certain aspects, for example when I was younger I felt like a dragon wearing a human suit. lol. Additionally I am also both furry and therian. Again I have art of how certain I am of being a cat therian. Specifically, a house cat.
@@protowaveOverall, I agree with a majority of what was mentioned. Especially about feeling I’m a dragon wearing a human suit. I even have a shirt that says, “Don’t let this human disguise fool you. I am a dragon.” And I know I am a cat theriotype, specifically a house cat. Due to relating to cats on a deep level that I am one. Cat instincts I do without thinking about it. I just do it. lol. And lastly, I am also a furry. I use my fursonas as a method of self reflection to understand myself better. I hope this helped answer your question.
I’m a goat furry and vampire otherkin… however, ALSO as a pagan, I’m not a fan of them using the septagram as the symbol. My otherkin has spiritual origins and involves my past life. I chose goat as my fursona because I have a close relationship with Pan, and decided that in order to honor him that I’d go my the name Skillet.
@@protowave yes, however it is an individual thing and, like discussed, it can mean something different to different people. I actually had myself evaluated for multiple personalities (that's what I thought it was when it first started appearing) by a mental health professional and they found that it doesn't have the characteristics of DID, I can control when I'm him and when he's "fronting" my personality completely changes, I can write with my left hand (when I'm actually right handed) and I can understand most german and a little bit of swedish. I believe it's a spiritual thing, and that somehow this vampire is a part of my spirit that somehow got lost when I died in my previous life. And as a pagan, the 7 pointed star represents fae magick, which is one of the paths of witchcraft I practice. As someone with strong connections to the fae realm, it's a little insulting for the 7 pointed star to be used out of its intended context, however at the same time it's awesome that my favorite witchy symbol is used to denote otherkin. Also makes it easier to get bigots off my back when they decide to harass me for "wEaRiNg A dEvIl SiGn, UnGa BuNgA 🥴".
As a furry and otherkin myself, I loved this! I like it when people post informative videos like this. It helps get rid of some of the unknown for people who don't know about folks like us :)
I loooove that you wrote “who” in your title. So often I’ve seen “what” even though they are indeed a who! I’m not otherkin personally, but it’s so nice to see people being kind about stuff like this instead of distant and rude.
As somebody who's otherkin This video is very informative. It's nice to see people be nice and kind to us instead of being mean to us.
Amazing video Stormi, I'm so proud of you! I loved how the neruodivegernt umbrella graphic included DID and OSDD, I don't see that often. It's so interesting how otherkin have been around since the 1970s, as elves specifically. Red anon made a lot great points. Circling back to neruodivegerncy, I think a video like this on neruodivegernt furries would be a great idea, but not just solely focusing on autistic people and people with ADHD, but interviewing those with other conditions such as schizophrenia and dissociative disorders as well.
I'm a long time furry who realized I am otherkin (dragon specifically) relatively recently. I have a ring tailed lemur fursona, but I don't use her that much anymore. Now that I have a strong enough concept of my appearance as a dragon to draw myself, I kind of use my kintype instead. There isn't so much a sona or even a separate "her" because the ice dragon is literally just me, my spirit self, my soul. It's the feeling of connection and rightness I always felt missing with fursonas and that kept me cycling between many of them for over a decade.
As a dragonkin, I really liked this, and I would be happy to help out if anyone has any questions or wants clarification. I've known I'm otherkin for decades and could have used the term sooner had I known of it. As such, I like to think I have plenty to share.
The clear statements that there is overlap among individuals using different terms, but each group is entirely distinct, was very well done. As for having trouble describing Otherkin more definitively, I would recommend breaking the group down into smaller groups. Each sub group has their own micro-culture and community spaces, for example.
Hi! I've been debating my identity as someone who could possibly be otherkin. I feel I relate to many of the otherkin experiences. I feel a close connection to dragons and feel phantom limbs. My emotions/behaviors feel more akin to dragons. My problem is- it's hard for me to believe something without proper proof. And that disconnect in my belief of dragons throws me off. I don't feel as much of a literal spiritual connection. Could I still consider myself otherkin? (to elaborate, I don't think dragons *couldn't* be real, I'm just... neutral to the possibility of dragons existing).
(I hope you don't mind me asking in the comments ^^;)
@@monsterteef It's okay. If I had any issues answering such questions here, I wouldn't have offered to answer them. You're fine. }:=8)
As to your issue, I had similar difficulty with my spiritual beliefs as a dragonkin for years. Doubt and agnosticism caused me to reject it repeatedly, but my inner self kept insisting, and I eventually found acceptance that it might be irrational, but nonetheless, it was part of me. I can't tell you what is true for you, only you can discover that for yourself. But one thing I would say is that an absence of proof is not proof of absence.
Another thing that may ease your mind and wasn't touched on in the video as much as the spiritual aspect is that for some, it's a more psychological identity. Some otherkin identify *with* their kin type rather than *as* it, and for many of them, it's for exactly the reasons you express. If your "inner self" feels like a dragon, even if you feel like it's all in your head, that's okay! I welcome you with open wings.
When I first joined the community, one of the examples listed for a possible route to being 'kin was an ancestral connection, referring to the belief in imperial China that the Emperor came from a bloodline founded by a dragon, which is why only the imperial family could use a five-toed dragon as a symbol or on their clothing. And if that alone is enough for a person to be considered dragonkin, you certainly qualify. But like being furry, it only counts if you claim it for yourself, and it feels right. It's perfectly okay to still feel hesitant and conflicted, but it's also okay to realize a deeper truth later and change what you call yourself.
So tell me, friend, are you one of us?
@@thassalantekreskel5742 I've thought on this and everything you've explained to me feels right. My inner self has felt like this for a long time. I think I can comfortably say... I'm dragonkin! I can't thank you enough for helping me find this part of myself ^^
@@monsterteef Welcome! I'm happy that I was able to help you along in your journey.
hi fellow dragon
I'm a therianthrope (wolfdog specifically) and I always have been. It makes me happy seeing videos about us (that aren't made by trolls, obviously)
Agreeeee!
@@snowycat1404 Preach
I’ve never heard of Otherkin before, and now after seeing this video, I kinda understand it to a point, but might need to do some research myself. But overall, this is a very interesting topic and would love to hear more about it someday. And as always, great video! Much love!
Hey if you need some help I am a more newly awakened otherkin but I can still answer any questions you have.
As a fictionkin.... great video tbh
You did good on this one.
Thank you Stormi for allowing me to help you with this video. very well done! I look forward to more in depth videos from you 💙
Thanks for making this video stormi! I may not be therian nor otherkin myself but your video was really informative. Once again, thank you mommy stormi
Solid job Stormi, the whole otherkin / therianthrope is I like to said Furry adjacent hence the comfort of most to be okay with talking with furries.
I thought otherkin and therians were the same thing so really appreciate this video thank you! I enjoy learning about subcultures
Hellhound otherkin here!❤ Thank you so much for the video😊
ANIMAL CROSSING REFERENCE 💯
The whole thing with Otherkin and its overlap with the Furry Fandom and Therians are very interesting!! Some deep stuff…
Love the vid as always!!
I'm really liking these new informative videos stormi! Very well done and well researched too!
Cool vid and very informative!
I really enjoyed this deep dive. Thank you.
Wow Stormi! This video was absolutely amazing and so informative! This is the perfect follow up to the Therian video you did! I can tell you put just as much effort into this one as you did with that one! I also appreciate that you used the same format with research and interviews as you did in the Therian video! It's great to see that you're keeping up with the consistency and quality of your content that you've set for yourself!
Also that little "beginnakin" pun you said at 0:52 really caught me off guard and made me laugh! I love how even when it's an informative and serious video, you always find a way to sprinkle a little bit of your humor in, which you also did at the 5:02-5:07 mark with TikTok! That was a clever little roast and a great way to transition to the interview portion of the video!
I can definitely see why this is one of your most difficult videos you've made as you said at the end! The topic of Otherkin is SO MUCH more complex than therianthropy, and the fact that they overlap as well is quite fascinating! I haven't heard of the term theriomythic until now, so that was very eye opening! I can tell this took a lot more time to put together than the Therian video with how much longer the research portion of this one is compared to that one!
And just one more thing. I noticed there was a bit of static noise interference coming from your microphone, which is a bit distracting, but not so much that it takes away from the video. Just wanted to make you aware so that you can address it for your future videos. Keep up the great work as always! I look forward to seeing whatever you put out next!
I love these in depth videos Stormi, it's fascinating to learn about other kin and other subjects that go beyond our own reality. Keep up the great work.
Hello Stormi!! Lovely editing, it's top tier every video. 🥰Like with therians, the spiritual side of it sounds so beautiful to me (7:45) . It's really sad that people assume they are abusers or mentally ill. 💔I was wondering if you'd be willing to talk more about fictionkin at one point? It's really interesting to me as someone who had a similar experience to those who are fictionkin. In my case, it's because I have had fictive alters, but there are some similarities like phantom feeling, but instead they're "phantom memories!" I do appreciate the amount of respect and research that goes into these videos, keep it up! 💙
Awesome work on this vid Stormi, very interesting and well presented. Stay awesome 😎
I love how high quality your videos are! The camera, editing, talking, informing, and your videos in general!
Excellent video, Stormi! Everything you said is pretty much spot on. So many of the interview answers people wrote very closely match my own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. (furry & therian here, and one of my good friends is otherkin) Those who are not therian/otherkin will never understand what it's like to have that different sense of self perception.
Awesome video, this was a great introduction to this community!
In alchemy, a seven-sided star can refer to the seven planets which were known to early alchemists, and also, the seven alchemical substances: fire, water, air, earth, sulphur, salt and mercury.
Another beautiful video stormi❤
Thank you! 🤗
I love the zora's domain music in the background.
Fr
i appricate also how subtle the volume of it was, very pleasant.
Its always interesting to watch videos like this one. Great Video Stormi ^^
This is so awesome information I never knew about this until this video I’m also a spiritual person and relate to this
THANK YOU FOR THIS STORMI ILY /P YOURE AWEOSME AND AMAZING TY\AHNKYOYUUUU
Great video Stormi. I would like to see more sutch as this, if You can.😊
Great video Stormi!
Really enjoyed it, and wish I had teachers as interesting and cute as you when I was in school
Wow this was very interesting I did not know about otherkin. Congratulations on this video even though you said it was a one to make. I’m proud of you girl keep up the great work. Stay safe and stay frosty
Cool informative video!
This was a very well scripted and informative video! So fascinating how colorful life
Coming to terms with being otherkin is such a special experience to me. I've managed to find ways to overlap my life and my identity. It has turned my own life around and for that I will forever feel free grateful I stumbled upon a video about otherkins. I have never felt more myself being myself. I hope more people see this video, its very informative.
Some mythic otherkin like dragons consider themselves therians, as separating real-life animals to mythological animals can feel a bit arbitrary when we're talking about identifying as a non-human creature. So there can be a lot of overlap between otherkin and therians. Anyways, great video!!
Im a werewolf therian who does not identify as otherkin.
Hi!! It'd be cool if you maybe made a video about fictionkin and maybe even more "obscure" types of alterhumans like plantkin, objectkin and conceptkin and others!! Please and thank you!!
That is an amazing video Stormi. As you taught me more about the otherkin community that I didn’t know using sources. And you know, IDK if I do identity myself as an otherkin. Even though I don’t like saying “out of suit” even if it’s out of kayfabe but at the same time, maybe I am an otherkin and a furry because I identify as a reptilian humanoid in a human suit or vessel. And even at times I identify as actually my fursona and it’s the human me that is alias. But you know what, thank you so much for teaching more about this community Stormi and others as it is interesting to learn about.
Not otherkin myself, but I do experience phantom limbs (claws, teeth, tail and horns) sometimes. That's why my sona is part wolf part dragon, to have these traits. Might be an autistic trait I have though (no diagnosis, but tested)
You might be interested in checking out Stormi's video on Therians if you haven't already. :)
This video makes me wonder how much if any did Dungeons and Dragons play into Otherkins. As we all know DND is basically Roll Playing as Mythical creatures in a way. Which is why I wonder if there is any connections there or not. I also need to look up starseeds so I can find out what that means.
I was thinking that too when Elves were mentioned. From what I remember, I think "starseed" is specific to space, the term starseed refers to being a "seed" from the stars.
I'm sure that plenty of otherkin find euphoria in playing RP games such as DND, but that's about as far the connection goes. Otherkinity isn't rp, and DND rp isn't an identity. I'm sure there are tons of otherkin who have kin that are from DND tho and didn't discover otherkinity until they "took on" the "identity" of something other than human
@@AvoidableScurvy Quite true. D&D, like any media with a fantasy element, is just another way an otherkin might find their "aha!" moment, leading to a proper awakening.
I'm a drow from DND, so doing that actually does make me really happy! Even if none of my drow characters really represent me as a person!
I think the transhumanism comparison at least gave me an idea of the thing. I still don't fully get it, but this did have some food for thought.
Neat vid! I'm curious, in your research and conversations did you get the impression that folks taking up the 'otherkin' label but also hang around in the furry community tend to be one thing or the other first? I've never considered myself otherkin, only furry, but since I'm a dragon and there *are* spiritual and identity components to that (but nothing super solid or consistent), based on the definitions presented, it's something of a grey area.
@@VRMS_VRMS_VRMS As a dragonkin, I can say that it's perfectly okay for you to claim the label for yourself if it feels right to you. Your draconic self might be different from your dragon fursona, which even small differences can create a bit of a blockage toward acceptance.
As for being 'kin first or furry first, I've seen both, and neither seems exceptionally more common. It's all down to which group the person happens to discover first. I, myself, had been part of the furry fandom for years before I had my awakening, but the dragon in me was different from any of the characters I had portrayed. The solid feeling of "this is me, and all of me" was what made the difference between my dragon-self and even other dragons I'd rp'd online.
Amazing and awesome video info. Love it, you and proto did a heck of a job here. Awesome research gone in. I am jot other kin but I am semi therian. At times, I feel I have a tail. Keep up the awesome job.
Thank you so much!!!!
@@StormiFolf You're welcome.
I used to think that otherkin were odd and unnatural. I saw that guy who bought a quad suit of a dog, and i used to think that he was delusional. After i found out about therianantophy, and later awakening, i did more research about otherkin and i can finally say i fully respect them❤
After watching this video, go watch Stormi's video on Therians as well. : )
@@sleepyoteyep i did!
I don't feel like I learned much from this video, but that's entirely because my own identity aligns closely with Otherkin, specifically the Draconic and Shapeshifter types.
Even tho I didn't learn much, I did enjoy the video a lot!
I have a whole lot more to say on this topic, but to sum it up (not so) shortly:
I've only considered myself a member of the furry fandom since roughly 2021, but I've known of the furry fandom since 2010. From 2010 to 2012 I used Second Life, and out of all the bad interactions I had on that program, not a single one involved anyone in the furry fandom.
I actually do regret not joining the fandom back then, but that's because society as a whole had rejected me because I have ADHD and Autism, and so I in turn rejected the idea of socialization as "why would you do that when you just know they're going to build a fence and put you on the other side of it?".
What a fool I was back then.
Since joining in 2021 I've learned more about myself than I had in the 9 years since I stopped using Second Life.
The furry fandom led me to learning what Therianthropy was, and then on to learning what this whole "Otherkin" thing was about.
Back in 2021 I thought that my inability to create a unique fursona that had a different personality from my own was a failure of my own imagination, but when I learned about Therianthropy and Otherkin, I realized that it was not any kind of failing at all, instead it was just me finding a new way to describe what my truest self is.
In any case, I figured out that my true self was always a Dragon.
The trigger was me watching The Hobbit and seeing Smaug, but the character I created is much more closely aligned with the lore behind Metallic dragons from D&D.
OK but why did I mention "shapeshifter" at the start of this? Well, part of the lore of the dragons from D&D is that they are able to shapeshift to any size or form they wish, at-will.
Closest thing I have to a "religion" of any kind that I have is an (internally) sworn oath to Bahamut, draconic god of Justice, even tho in reality it's more of a "spirituality" than a "properly codified" religion.
I get the "phantom limb" feelings that are often described by Otherkin and Therians multiple times a month, sometimes even multiple times a week. Sometimes it's wings, sometimes it's a tail, never really know day-to-day what it's gonna be, but the weird thing is that it always feels "more real than reality", and yet I am constantly (uncomfortably, even) aware that those feelings don't represent actual parts of my body. Overall I think the benefits of these phantom feelings outweigh the downsides, basically at the worst it's a "welcome distraction".
As far as being able to match my mental self-image to my IRL physical form?
Well, first off I know it can't happen, not without probably another thousand years of very directed research into genetic modification (which would probably need an unlimited budget besides). So the following is purely hypothetical:
If there was a button I could push that would make my physical form match my internal mental self-image in an instant, without any "monkey's paw" or "genie wish" kinda meddling interfering, then I can't think of any timeline starting from today where I don't push that button, even if it causes me a lot of physical pain in that instant (If it doesn't hurt, that's great, but if that one instant of pain is more intense than any human has ever survived, then I'm still pushing that button).
I even know the first few things I'd be doing if I woke up and found my outer physicality "aligned" with my inner mental self-image (mental self image staying constant, and physicality changing to match, that is).
For legal reasons I can't really say much about that other than that I'd be trying to make the world a better place for most people.
Do you feel it resonated at all?
As a dragonkin myself, I feel you did a very good job describing a common experience for many of us. Personally, having digitigrade feet, I also occasionally engage in toe-walking.
As for your belief structure, just because you revere Bahamut as a personified archetype doesn't mean it's any less valid. I've heard of people who use superheroes in rituals in place of more generic archetype titles and gotten results, so if even that is valid, yours certainly is.
I also identify with your body-swap idea. I would be next in line to push that button, no question.
Gud video as a therian and (maybe) otherkin :3 good job at like being respectful lol
Your video is awesome!
The only thing I would slightly disagree with is therians only identifying as an Earthen animals. As far as I know, the term was originally and historically used to describe any animalistic identity. This means that, for example, a gryphon can call themselves a therian if they feel that this term describes that they are experiencing.
I'm an alterhuman and questioning therian/otherkin, and I feel the same way towards the therian term. I partially see myself as a semi-sapient, semi-animalistic animal. My type is possibly non-earthen, but I feel that therian term fits my experiences with it better than otherkin, thought I'm still questioning my identity.
‼️QUESTION‼️
I thought therianthropy was for those who spiritually connect with an already existing animal (wolf, cat, lynx, etc) and otherkin were mythical creatures (elves, fairies, etc). Where do bipedal/anthro characters fall? Can it be either? Is there a separate terminology for it? Please feel free to share your views/experiences in the replies! Thanks! ^^
Hiiii! To be honest, I'd consider it otherkin myself considering therians are based in the real world. Although either label works, it's a matter of preference really!
stormi has a video on therians on her channel as well
@@Merlot- Alr tysm! :D
@@protowave Yea I saw, I’ll go check it out sometime ^^
Its not just a spiritual connection. It can be physiological as well. Its also more about identifying as that animal, not just being connected to them. Yes, mythical creatures CAN be therians too. My theriotype is a werewolf.
Good job stormi! I thought otherkin where somethinga bit diffrent, beinga bit more similar to therians, unless my brain just isnt clicking :3 im a furry and therian who was thimking they may be an otherkin but now i belive i am not! Ty for the video, ive been very curious about otherkina for multipile months
Pawsome and interesting video!!!! :) =^.^=
Big disclaimer though, for those who may confuse it, or use it as a reason to hate, you don't have to be trans at all to feel like you are otherkin/therian/etc, it's not a gender or trans thing.
(I'm not otherkin btw)
Please remember to be kind to Otherkin in the comment section, let's make them feel welcome! 🧡
Love u stormy
I love your suit stormi! She looks beautiful (:
I'm a otherkin I identify as the Cheshire Cat...
-After watching this beautiful video I cried from how deep Stromi went with this video
Cool, now go actually watch the video and post a comment talking about it, that way we know that you actually watched it
Please watch the video first! Stormi worked very hard on this video, and it's worth paying attention to.
Smart stomi
0:07 you forgoted phoenixes... Phoenixeeeeeeeeees!!!!!!
My boyfriend sergal mentioned that he was an otherkin yesterday
Thier still the same. Don't treat them differently just coz he's otherkin. Respect him. Respect everyone.
I have Dragonkin either although it doesn't refectled physically like my dog therian, my fursona reflects dragonkin.
Wait so am a otherkin
That is for you to find out, friend. 💙
@@aquaunicorn4390 hugs
@@aquaunicorn4390 rwary 🥰
I'm all of the above. I always used therian and otherkin interchangeably, but the irony is that I identified as therian before I was comfortable calling myself a furry. After I came out as nonbinary genderfluid years later, I falsely assumed that otherkin were just transgender furries who couldn't find the language to describe their identities any other way. I had to learn that these are all separate categories. They can overlap though, as they do in my case, which is probably why I saw little distinction between them. For me it's probably psychological in nature, as I'm neurodivergent autistic, and see myself as a shapeshifter.
I view my otherkin ism as no different my trans speciesism.
As a trans therian bear were valid and all xenogenders are vald
what did you think of the video? what parts of it were accurate?
I am a furry and an otherkin! I have multiple kintypes including the very common dragon and elf but I am also a sea serpent and a winged wolf those are more theriomythic to me. I know or I believe that these were past lives of mine oh and I am a forest spirit as well. Some of them have names like my storm dragon kintype is Kyzerrah he could talk and I have drawn him before, the forest spirit one was hidden for years as a fursona of mine with Oren being xir name but I now know xie had multiple names. The elf is Elenthil meaning either shining star or the point of a star, he is an elf from Tolkien's world he was a sindar/green elf from Doriath. That one revealed itself when I was reading The Silmarillion and when I got to Doriath it sounded familiar to me, he had a friend in Doriath: Ithillion who I met in this life as well. Online that is but it was great to know more about that kintype through memories he has of Elenthil, also I do not know if that actually is his name that is what I named him but it is very on point for us to have multiple names. Anyways if anyone has any questions about being otherkin, I am a spiritual otherkin and willing to answer any questions.
what did you think of the video?
@@protowave It was really well researched but did not really touch upon spiritual otherkin but there was one that was interviewed. It is a good insight into otherkin and the interviews really helped showing the diverse view of the community.
I just call mine shifterkin since I can't really tell yet. I've a lot of overlap of autism, did, and many other things
im a furry And more likely an Otherkin, im a fairy, since I was a little girl I knew I was, and I do show them in my talents like art and mostly in my dances. I wear the outfit that I feel connection with and people Do tell me I looked like a fairy on stage.
And that is how we should be, on the internet I see it so nice that one gets in a community and share their feelings and ideas, but irl it''s best to Show not tell in various forms that comes from the heart (avoiding of course forcing it or trying to do something that the human body just cannot
Before I became aware of the knowledge pertaining to otherkin, therian; I knew that I am a otherkin of a dragon, but with sentience.
If the reality of the Wings of Fire universe was possible then I’d be a dragon that resides with those dragons.
I have art. Due to certain aspects, for example when I was younger I felt like a dragon wearing a human suit. lol.
Additionally I am also both furry and therian.
Again I have art of how certain I am of being a cat therian. Specifically, a house cat.
what do you think of the video? was it accurate to your experience?
@@protowaveOverall, I agree with a majority of what was mentioned. Especially about feeling I’m a dragon wearing a human suit. I even have a shirt that says, “Don’t let this human disguise fool you. I am a dragon.”
And I know I am a cat theriotype, specifically a house cat. Due to relating to cats on a deep level that I am one. Cat instincts I do without thinking about it. I just do it. lol.
And lastly, I am also a furry. I use my fursonas as a method of self reflection to understand myself better.
I hope this helped answer your question.
I’m a goat furry and vampire otherkin… however, ALSO as a pagan, I’m not a fan of them using the septagram as the symbol.
My otherkin has spiritual origins and involves my past life. I chose goat as my fursona because I have a close relationship with Pan, and decided that in order to honor him that I’d go my the name Skillet.
what did you think of the video? was it accurate?
@@protowave yes, however it is an individual thing and, like discussed, it can mean something different to different people.
I actually had myself evaluated for multiple personalities (that's what I thought it was when it first started appearing) by a mental health professional and they found that it doesn't have the characteristics of DID, I can control when I'm him and when he's "fronting" my personality completely changes, I can write with my left hand (when I'm actually right handed) and I can understand most german and a little bit of swedish.
I believe it's a spiritual thing, and that somehow this vampire is a part of my spirit that somehow got lost when I died in my previous life.
And as a pagan, the 7 pointed star represents fae magick, which is one of the paths of witchcraft I practice. As someone with strong connections to the fae realm, it's a little insulting for the 7 pointed star to be used out of its intended context, however at the same time it's awesome that my favorite witchy symbol is used to denote otherkin. Also makes it easier to get bigots off my back when they decide to harass me for "wEaRiNg A dEvIl SiGn, UnGa BuNgA 🥴".
The real question is what does it mean to be human?
im catkin! dilute calico from italy in my past life i believe
I'm just imagining the most abhorrent creature known to man like Cthulhu being an other kin
Another very insightful video, thanks so much Stormi.
Im Therian/Otherkin & a furry 🫶🩷
For me its spiritual but it is healing a bit for my trauma.
what did you think of the video? what parts of it were accurate?
@@protowave I couldn't rly see any issues with it. It seemed pretty accurate at least to my experiences n ppl ik..