Have you found yourself feeling that nagging sense of constriction that points to the need for expansion or growth beyond your current limits? If so, you’re not alone. 

The lushness of summer is in full swing, but the need to prepare for fall can be felt as we find ourselves already in the middle of August. 

Relocating wood in anticipation of those chill-chasing days to come can lead to interesting finds, like the snakeskin depicted here. A few layers lower, the likely culprit of this cast-off casing—an eastern garter snake—was revealed in its shiny new armor, all geared up to foray for its favorite foods, like the plentiful earthworms, frogs and toads that live here.

Snakes have dry scaly skin which is occasionally shed in a process called ecdysis—the act of molting or shedding an outer layer of skin. This common practice, during which a snake rubs against hard surfaces to dislodge old or damaged skin, allows the snake to grow. It also helps to rid the reptile of parasites while providing a healthy new outer layer for improved locomotion.

A snake preparing to shed can appear dull, with a bluish cloudy cast to the eyes. In facilitating the process, the snake develops a fresh layer of skin below the old one. Between the two, a fluid layer forms, enabling an easier escape for the snake to break through and wriggle out, often leaving behind the entire length of its shed skin in one piece.

The frequency of shedding varies, with younger snakes molting more often than older individuals. 

After shedding, the snake typically rests while allowing its new skin to harden, then resumes its regular activities, all spruced up and set to slither.

Garter snakes are generally harmless, but will attempt to defend themselves by striking, biting and even expelling foul-smelling fluid from their anal glands. Save yourself the unpleasantness of such unsavory experiences and simply enjoy the snake’s presence with respect for its independence. 

Be inspired to consider the concept of ecdysis to address that need for expansion of your own possibilities. Shed what no longer serves you and leave those limitations behind as you emerge anew.