Shamanism, a centuries-old healing tradition, offers a profound way of life that connects us with the natural world and the spirit that resides within all things. This ancient practice, rooted in the belief that everything in the world is embodied with spirit and has healing wisdom to share, is not a religion but a spiritual path that seeks to harmonize our lives with the world around us.

The Origins and Evolution of Shamanism

The word "shaman" originated from a tribe in Siberia and was applied to all medicine men and women of indigenous cultures whose practice included the flight of their soul. Throughout history, shamans have served their communities as healers, oracles, counselors, guides, and assistants to the dying. Today, shamanism has evolved into a formal practice and spiritual path, with skilled teachers sharing ancient wisdom and traditions through teaching circles and apprenticeships.

The Shamanic Perspective

Those who follow a shamanistic perspective seek to be in relationship and harmony with the spirit in all things. They use information and guidance from spirits to intentionally form their own life experience. Shamanism is not only concerned with the health of the individual but also with the health of the entire community, including all people, plants, animals, and all of life.

The Universal Spiritual Wisdom

Shamanism can be viewed as the universal spiritual wisdom inherent to all peoples. As all ancient spiritual practices are rooted in nature, shamanism is the method by which we as human beings can strengthen that natural connection. By embracing this wisdom, we can regain our power and sense of control in our lives, which is often lost when we sweep our emotional hurts under the rug.

The Shamanic Healing Process

The shamanic model of health and healing asserts that illness originates in the energetic or spiritual dimensions before it manifests as physical symptoms. As a shamanic practitioner, I work with helping spirits to facilitate healing and wellness. The shamanic healing process is a team effort that requires the participation of the individual, the shaman, and the helping spirits.

Shamanic Healing and Wellness Tools

Some of the tools used in shamanic healing and wellness include:

Shamanic Counsel: Gaining information and guidance from spirits and spirit guides on transformational steps and practices for spiritual, physical, intellectual, and psychological growth and refinement.

Drumming: Replicating the heartbeat of Mother Earth to facilitate the shamanic trance, which is crucial in shamanic healing and journeying.

Journeying: Meeting and/or gaining information and guidance from spirits and spirit guides regarding past or past life events.

Smudging: Purifying a room with the smoke of sacred herbs to clear negative energy.

Mesa: A portable altar or medicine bundle used for healing, ceremony, prayer, and divination.

Spirits: Divine, angelic, ancestral, animal, plant, and personal spirits that offer guidance and information for healing.

Love: Available in overflowing abundance, love is a fundamental aspect of the shamanic healing process.

By embracing the ancient wisdom of shamanism, we can begin to heal our emotional wounds, regain our power, and feel whole again. As we navigate the complexities of modern life, shamanism offers a profound path to wholeness and connection with the natural world.