Exploring the Lower World: A Guide to Shamanic Journeying

The concept of exploring the Lower World may seem strange or mysterious to some, yet it can offer a transformative experience for those who are willing to delve into the unknown. In this article, we will explore step-by-step what you need to know about embarking on a journey to the Lower World. We will cover the basics from preparing for your trip, entering the Lower World, and returning with newfound insights. So, if you are curious about what lies in the depths of our consciousness and beyond, read on to discover how to explore the Lower World.

What is the Lower World?

The Lower World is a term commonly used in shamanism to describe a non-ordinary reality that can be accessed through shamanic journeying. This realm is believed to be located below the surface of the Earth, and it is characterized by darkness, ancient wisdom, and the presence of spirit guides who can help us navigate through it. In the Lower World, one can encounter various landscapes and creatures, including caves, underground rivers, crystals, and animals such as snakes, spiders, and bears. This realm is associated with the unconscious mind, the roots of our being, and the forces of transformation and regeneration. To enter the Lower World, one needs to use specific techniques such as drumming, meditation, or visualization, and be open to receiving the guidance and teachings of the spirits. It is important to prepare oneself before embarking on a Lower World journey, by cleansing one’s energy, setting an intention, and gathering the necessary tools. In this way, one can explore the Lower World with confidence and respect, and return enriched with insights and healing energy.

Why Explore the Lower World?

Exploring the Lower World can be a powerful and transformative experience for anyone seeking personal growth, introspection, or healing. The Lower World is a realm that exists within the depths of our consciousness, a place where we can connect with our deepest selves and the spirits that reside there.

One of the main reasons to explore the Lower World is to gain a profound understanding of ourselves. This realm is said to be the home of the subconscious mind, where repressed emotions, fears, and desires reside. By journeying into the Lower World, we can confront these parts of ourselves, understand them, and heal them.

In addition to personal growth, exploring the Lower World can also provide insights and guidance from spirit allies or power animals. These beings can act as guides and offer support, wisdom, and protection during the journey.

Some may also choose to explore the Lower World for the sake of curiosity or adventure. The Lower World is full of wonders and mysteries waiting to be discovered, from hidden caves and crystal clear rivers, to otherworldly creatures and magical beings.

Regardless of the reason for exploration, it is important to approach the journey with intention and respect. Shamanic journeying is a sacred practice that requires preparation and a willingness to surrender to the experience. For those new to journeying, it may be helpful to read up on shamanic journeying basics, preparation, and the different states of consciousness one may encounter during a journey.

Exploring the Lower World can be a rewarding and transformative experience that provides a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. By approaching the journey with intention and respect, we can open ourselves up to new insights, guidance, and healing.

Preparing for Your Journey

Preparing for a journey to the Lower World is a crucial step in exploring this metaphysical realm. Before embarking on this adventure, one must first prepare not only the physical body but also the mind and spirit. Cleansing the energy field through practices such as smudging or bathing in Epsom salt can help remove any negative energies. Setting an intention is also essential in focusing the mind and directing the journey towards a specific purpose. Gathering tools such as a drum, a rattle, or a crystal can aid in enhancing the experience. Lastly, choosing a method such as guided meditation, shamanic journeying, or lucid dreaming can help one enter into the Lower World. It is essential to note that different methods may work better for some individuals, and experimentation is encouraged.

Cleansing Your Energy

Cleansing your energy is an essential part of preparing for a journey to the lower world. This process helps you to release any negative or stagnant energy so that you can fully connect with the spirits in the lower world. There are many ways to cleanse your energy; choose the one that resonates with you the most.

Here are some methods to cleanse your energy:

Method	Description
Burning Sage or Palo Santo	This method involves burning sage or palo santo and wafting the smoke around your body to purify your energy field.
Salt Bath	Soaking in a bath with sea salt or Epsom salt helps to draw out any negative energy from your body.
Visualization	Visualize a bright white light surrounding your body and filling your energy field. Imagine this light cleansing and purifying your energy.
Sounds	You can use singing bowls, chimes, or bells to create a vibration that can help to clear your energy field.
Reiki or Energy Healing	A Reiki practitioner or energy healer can assist you in clearing any blocked energy in your body.

It’s essential to take your time cleansing your energy so that you can feel fully prepared for your journey. You may find some methods work better for you than others, so feel free to experiment to find what resonates with you the most.

Once you’ve cleansed your energy, it’s time to set your intention for your journey. Consider what you hope to gain from your time in the lower world. Are you seeking guidance or wisdom? Are you hoping to release old patterns or trauma? Setting a clear intention can help ensure that your journey is focused and purposeful.

Setting an Intention

Setting an Intention: Before embarking on a journey to the Lower World, it’s essential to set a clear intention. This intention can be a question, a goal, or simply a desire to connect with the Lower World and gain insight and wisdom. Your intention will guide the course of your journey and help you focus your energy. Take some time to reflect on what you hope to gain from the experience and frame your intention in a positive way. It’s also important to keep your intention in mind throughout the journey and return to it if you find yourself getting lost or distracted.

When setting an intention, it’s important to be specific and concise. If your intention is too broad or vague, you may not receive the answers or guidance you’re seeking. For example, instead of setting an intention to “find happiness,” you might set an intention to “understand the root cause of my unhappiness and discover ways to address it.”

Additionally, it’s important to approach your intention with an open and humble mindset. Don’t try to force an outcome or expect a specific answer. Trust in the wisdom of the Lower World and the guidance of your spirit guide.

By setting a clear and specific intention, you’ll be better prepared for your journey and more likely to gain valuable insights and guidance. Remember that intention setting is an important part of any shamanic journey, whether it’s to the Lower World, Upper World, or even in everyday life.

Gathering Tools

When gathering tools for your Lower World journey, it is important to consider what will aid you in your exploration. The use of ritual objects can be a powerful tool in grounding your energy and preparing your mind for the journey ahead. These can include items such as crystals, feathers, or a special piece of clothing reserved specifically for shamanic work.

Another useful tool is a drum or rattle, which can help to shift your consciousness into a deeper state of awareness. The repetitive sound of the drumbeat can also serve as a guide for your journey, providing a steady rhythm for you to follow.

It can be helpful to create a sacred space for your journey by incorporating smudging or burning herbs such as sage or palo santo to cleanse the energy of the room. This can also be used to clear your personal energy field before beginning the journey.

A journal or writing utensil can also be useful in processing and integrating any insights or messages received during your journey. Writing down your experiences can help to deepen your understanding of the journey and allow for further reflection.

It’s important to remember that while tools can be useful, they are not required for a successful journey. Ultimately, the most important tool you have is your own willingness to explore the Lower World and trust in the guidance you receive.

For more information on shamanic practices, check out our article on shamanic journeying frequency or learn about the power of power animals on a shamanic journey. Avoid common shamanic mistakes by reading our helpful guide on what not to do during a shamanic journey. And if you want a general overview of the healing power of shamanic journeying, read our article on the healing power of shamanic journeying and learn about the difference between the shamanic and astral realms in our guide on the difference between the shamanic and astral realms.

Choosing a Method

Choosing a method for exploring the Lower World is an important decision that can impact the outcome of your experience. There are many different techniques you can use, and the best one for you will depend on your personality, interests, and abilities. Here are a few methods to consider:

Drumming: This is one of the most popular methods for exploring the Lower World. The steady beat of the drum can help you enter a trance-like state, which makes it easier to connect with your spirit guide and explore the Lower World.

Dancing: Movement can be a powerful way to connect with your body and spirit. Dancing can help you enter an altered state of consciousness that can lead to profound insights and connections.

Meditation: Meditation is a great way to quiet your mind and focus your intention. It can help you enter a receptive state, which can make it easier to connect with your spirit guide and explore the Lower World.

Visualization: Visualization is a technique that involves vividly imagining yourself in the Lower World. It requires a strong ability to create mental images, but it can be a powerful tool for those who can do it well.

Ayahuasca: This is a powerful plant medicine that has been used for centuries in South America for spiritual journeys. It can induce a profound altered state of consciousness that can lead to deep insights and connections.

The method you choose should be based on your individual needs and preferences. Some people may prefer a more active method like dancing or drumming, while others may prefer a quieter method like meditation or visualization. It’s important to choose a method that feels right for you, and to approach it with an open mind and a willingness to explore new experiences.

Embarking on Your Journey

As you begin your journey into the Lower World, it’s important to enter with a sense of reverence and respect. Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and set your intention for what you hope to gain from the experience. When you feel ready, enter the Lower World by visualizing a portal or doorway. Trust that you are safe and protected, and allow yourself to be fully present in the moment. As you explore, you may encounter your spirit guide, who can help you navigate the Lower World and provide guidance and insight. Remember to stay open and curious, and explore the Lower World with a sense of wonder and awe.

Entering the Lower World

Entering the Lower World is a process that requires focus and intentionality. The Lower World is accessible through various methods, including guided meditations, shamanic journeying, and lucid dreaming. Whatever method you choose, it’s essential to ensure that you’re in a calm and peaceful state of mind to access the Lower World successfully.

As you begin your journey, take a deep breath and focus your attention on your intention for entering the Lower World. Imagine yourself surrounded by a bright, white light that can protect you throughout your journey. Feel the energy of the Lower World as you connect with it, and allow yourself to enter into a different state of consciousness.

As you enter the Lower World, you might notice a physical sensation, such as tingling or warmth. Embrace these sensations and allow yourself to fully immerse in the environment. You might find yourself in a forest, a cave, or some other natural setting. Use your senses to observe everything around you – the colors, sounds, and smells.

Be open to any animals or spirit guides that might appear to guide you throughout your journey. Trust your intuition and follow their lead to explore the Lower World fully. During your journey, you might receive insights, guidance, and healing that can help you in your daily life.

Remember that you have total control over your journey and can return to your normal state of consciousness at any time if you feel uncomfortable. Trust that you’re safe and protected throughout your journey and stay curious to explore everything the Lower World has to offer.

Meeting Your Spirit Guide

Meeting your Spirit Guide is an incredibly important step when exploring the Lower World. Your Spirit Guide is a spiritual entity that acts as a mentor and protector during your journey. They may appear in many different forms and have differing roles depending on your individual needs. Gaining their trust and forming a strong connection is essential for a successful journey.

To meet your Spirit Guide, start by taking a few deep breaths and centering yourself. Set your intention to connect with your Spirit Guide and ask for their assistance. Close your eyes and wait for them to present themselves.

Your Spirit Guide may appear as an animal, a human, or even an abstract object. Don’t be afraid if they initially present in an unexpected form. Trust that they are there to guide and protect you.

Once your Spirit Guide has made themselves known, take some time to communicate with them. Ask them any questions you may have and allow them to provide guidance, wisdom, and support. They may have specific insights or messages for you, or they may simply provide comfort and encouragement.

It’s important to show gratitude and respect towards your Spirit Guide. They are there to help you, but it’s important to remember that they are a spiritual entity deserving of reverence. Offer thanks for their assistance and establish a relationship with them that goes beyond this journey.

Remember that meeting your Spirit Guide is a personal experience unique to you. Everyone’s experience is different, and there’s no right or wrong way to connect with your guide. Trust in your intuition and be open to the guidance that comes your way. By forming a strong connection with your Spirit Guide, you’ll have a trusted ally during your explorations of the Lower World.

Exploring the Lower World

Exploring the Lower World is a mystical experience that requires a deep connection to oneself and the universe. Here are some tips on exploring the Lower World:

• Be Open to the Experience: Exploring the Lower World requires one to be open to the experience. Set aside any doubts or expectations and allow yourself to be present in the moment.
• Trust Your Intuition: Your intuition is your compass in the Lower World. Trust it to guide you on your journey.
• Observe and Absorb: Take in the sights, sounds, and sensations of the Lower World. Observe everything around you and absorb all that you can.
• Interact with the Environment: The Lower World is a living, breathing entity. Don’t be afraid to interact with the environment and the creatures you encounter.
• Stay Grounded: It’s easy to get lost in the Lower World. Stay grounded by keeping your intentions clear and your focus sharp. Remember to return to your physical body when your journey is complete.

Exploring the Lower World can be a transformative experience that provides insights into our deepest fears and desires. Be open, be brave, and trust the journey.

Returning from Your Journey

Returning from a journey to the Lower World can bring profound insights and experiences that can impact your daily life. Bringing Back Insights is a crucial step in integrating your journey. Journaling your experience, painting, drawing or creating a collage, can be a way to keep your experiences fresh in your mind. It may help you remember messages from your spirit guide or any life lessons you may have discovered. Additionally, sharing your journey with a trusted person can provide another perspective and validation. To Integrate and Ground your experience, consider taking deep breaths focusing on the present moment and thanking your spirit guides. Connecting with nature through walking barefoot or meditation can also help you stay connected and grounded. Remember, no matter what you discover on your journey, it takes time to integrate it into your daily life. Allow yourself time to process the information, set actionable goals, and be gentle with yourself as you continue to grow and learn.

Bringing Back Insights

Bringing back insights from the lower world is an integral part

of the journey. These insights can come in the form of new perspectives, understandings, or even answers to questions you may have been struggling with. It is important to note that these insights may not come in the form of clear, logical thoughts, but rather through symbolism, emotions, or physical sensations.

One way to help bring back insights is to keep a journal. Write down anything that stands out to you during your journey, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant. It is also helpful to reflect on your journey and the insights gained shortly after returning. This can help solidify the information in your mind and make it easier to apply in your daily life.

However, it is important to remember that not all insights gained from the lower world are meant to be shared or acted upon. Some may be personal and meant only for your own growth and understanding. It is important to honor and respect these insights, even if they do not make sense to anyone else.

Bringing back insights from the lower world can also be a catalyst for change in your life. These insights may help you let go of negative patterns or beliefs, or inspire you to take action towards your goals. It is important to remain open and receptive to the insights gained, even if they challenge your current beliefs or way of life.

Bringing back insights from the lower world is a powerful aspect of the journey. It can lead to personal growth, understanding, and inspiration for change. By keeping a journal, reflecting on the experience, and remaining open to the insights gained, you can fully integrate the experience into your daily life.

Integration and Grounding

Integration and Grounding are essential aspects of any Lower World journey. After returning from your trip, it’s crucial to take time to reflect on your experience and integrate any insights gained into your daily life. Here are some tips for Integration and Grounding:

Tip	Description
Journaling	Write down any important insights or messages received during your journey. Reflect on how they apply to your life and create an action plan based on them.
Sharing	Talk to someone you trust about your experience. Share your insights and ask for their perspective. This can help provide clarity and support.
Grounding Exercises	Do activities that help anchor you to the present moment, such as walking in nature, meditation, or deep breathing. This can help you stay connected to your body and the physical world.
Creative Expression	Use art, music, dance, or any other form of creative expression to explore and process your experience. This can help bring clarity and understanding to your journey.
Self-Care	Take care of yourself physically, emotionally, and mentally. Get enough rest, eat nourishing foods, and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.

Remember, Integration and Grounding is a process and may take time. Be patient and kind with yourself as you navigate this journey. With time and practice, it will become easier to integrate Lower World experiences into your daily life.

Troubleshooting

When exploring the lower world, it’s important to be prepared for potential obstacles that may arise during your journey. Some common obstacles include feeling stuck or lost, encountering unexpected beings or experiences, and experiencing fear or discomfort. To overcome these obstacles, it’s important to stay grounded and remind yourself of your intention for the journey. You can also call on your spirit guide for assistance and guidance. It’s important to keep an open mind and approach any challenges with a sense of curiosity and willingness to learn. Remember to integrate and ground yourself after your journey to fully process any insights gained.

Common Obstacles

Embarking on a journey to explore the lower world can be exciting, but it’s understandable to encounter common obstacles along the way. One potential challenge is to actually enter the lower world. Some people might find it difficult to visualize the entrance or transition from the upper world to the lower world. Others might struggle with letting go of their physical body and surrendering to the journey.

Another obstacle to overcome is meeting your spirit guide. It is common to expect a clear, vivid, or even symbolic representation of your guide. However, it’s important to remember that spirit guides can take on multiple forms and might not appear in the way you initially envisioned.

Fear is yet another common obstacle to overcome. It’s natural to feel some level of fear when delving into the unknown, especially when exploring the lower world. Fear can lead to a lack of focus or limited ability to engage fully with the experience. However, it’s important to acknowledge and face these fears as they often stem from unresolved inner conflicts that may limit your growth.

The disappointment of not finding what you expected in the lower world is also a common obstacle. It’s important to recognize that the journey is not always about finding specific answers or receiving particular insights. Sometimes, it’s about simply being present and listening to what the lower world has to offer in its own unique way.

To overcome these common obstacles, there are different techniques that can be utilized. Visualization exercises, breathing techniques, or repeated affirmations can help to focus and clear the mind, and to strengthen your connection to the journey. Additionally, having an open mind and being receptive to all experiences can provide valuable insights and unexpected answers.

By acknowledging and addressing these common obstacles, you can overcome them and fully embrace the journey of exploring the lower world.

Overcoming Fear

Fear is a natural response when embarking on any kind of journey, and it’s no different when exploring the Lower World. It’s important to acknowledge and understand your fears, but it’s equally important not to let them hold you back. Here are some tips for overcoming fear:

Tips for Overcoming Fear	Explanation
Identify your fears	Write down your fears and acknowledge them. Recognize that they are valid, but don’t let them control you.
Visualize success	Imagine yourself successfully completing your journey and coming back with valuable insights. Hold onto this visualization when fear arises.
Practice relaxation techniques	Breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga can help calm your mind and body. Use them as tools to manage your fear.
Ask for support	Lean on friends, family, or spiritual mentors for emotional support and guidance. Sometimes talking about your fears can help you process them.
Take baby steps	If your fear feels overwhelming, don’t force yourself to take giant leaps. Take small steps toward your goal and gradually work your way up.

Remember, fear is a natural part of any journey. Use the above tips to help manage your fears, but most importantly, don’t let them hold you back from exploring the Lower World and gaining valuable insights.

Dealing with Disappointment

Dealing with Disappointment during your journey into the Lower World can be a challenging experience. It’s important to remember that disappointment is a natural part of any exploratory process. Here are some tips for dealing with disappointment during your journey:

1. Acknowledge your feelings	It’s okay to feel disappointed. Take a moment to acknowledge your feelings and allow yourself to experience them without judgment.
2. Reflect on your experience	Reflect on your journey and try to identify what may have led to your disappointment. Did you have unrealistic expectations? Did something unexpected happen?
3. Find the lesson	Every experience, even disappointing ones, can offer valuable lessons. Look for the lesson in your disappointment and try to apply it to future journeys.
4. Practice self-compassion	Be kind to yourself and practice self-compassion. Disappointments are a natural part of the exploratory process, and they do not define your worth or ability.
5. Seek support	Reach out to friends, family, or a trusted healer for support. Talking about your disappointment can help you process your feelings and gain a new perspective.

Remember, dealing with disappointment is a part of any exploratory process. The important thing is to acknowledge your feelings, reflect on your experience, find the lesson, practice self-compassion, and seek support if necessary. By using these tips, you can move forward with confidence on your journey into the Lower World.

Conclusion

Exploring the lower world can be a transformative and enlightening experience, but it is important to approach it with respect and caution. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can prepare yourself mentally and spiritually for the journey ahead, making it more likely that you will have a positive experience and gain valuable insights.

It is important to remember that everyone’s journey will be unique, and there is no right or wrong way to explore the lower world. What works for one person may not work for another, so it is important to experiment and find the approach that feels right for you.

If you encounter obstacles or difficulties during your journey, don’t be discouraged. This is a normal part of the experience, and there are tools and techniques you can use to overcome them. The key is to remain open-minded and receptive to the guidance of your spirit guide.

Above all, remember to integrate your insights and experiences back into your daily life. This may involve making changes to your mindset or behavior, or simply reflecting on the lessons you have learned. By grounding yourself and staying connected to your intention, you can continue to reap the benefits of your journey long after it is over.

Summary of Key Points

– Exploring the lower world can be a transformative experience, but it is important to approach it with respect and caution.
– Preparation is key – cleanse your energy, set an intention, gather tools, and choose a method that feels right for you.
– Embark on your journey with an open mind, and be receptive to the guidance of your spirit guide.
– If you encounter obstacles or difficulties, use tools and techniques to overcome them.
– Remember to integrate your insights and experiences back into your daily life through reflection and action.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the Lower World in Shamanism?

The Lower World is a significant aspect of shamanism as it is believed to be the place where individuals can connect with their inner selves and the spirits that reside there.

Can anyone explore the Lower World?

Yes, anyone can explore the Lower World. However, it is advised to do so with the guidance of an experienced shamanic practitioner or spiritual teacher.

Do I need any special tools to explore the Lower World?

While some may use tools such as drums or rattles to induce a trance-like state, these tools are not necessary for exploring the Lower World. One’s intention and willingness to embark on the journey are the most important factors.

What are some benefits of exploring the Lower World?

Benefits can vary from person to person, but often include gaining insight and understanding of oneself, healing emotional wounds, and connecting with spiritual guides and helpers.

How do I know if I am ready to explore the Lower World?

If you feel a calling or curiosity to explore your inner-self and spiritual world, then you may be ready to explore the Lower World. It is important to approach the journey with the intention of honoring and respecting yourself and the spirits you encounter.

What is the most common method for entering the Lower World?

The most common method for entering the Lower World is through the use of guided visualization, where an experienced practitioner will lead you into the Lower World through storytelling and visualization techniques.

What if I experience fear or discomfort during my journey?

This is a common experience and can be addressed by setting the intention to stay connected to your inner truth and asking for guidance from your spiritual helpers. You can also try bringing your focus back to your breath or physical sensations to ground yourself.

What are some potential pitfalls of exploring the Lower World?

Some potential pitfalls may include getting lost or stuck in the Lower World, encountering negative or malevolent spirits, or experiencing difficulty in returning to the physical world. These issues can often be avoided or addressed with the guidance of an experienced shamanic practitioner.

How can I integrate my Lower World experience into my daily life?

Integration can be done through reflection, journaling, and incorporating any insights or lessons gained from the journey into your daily life. This can also involve practicing self-care and taking time for regular spiritual practice.

Can exploring the Lower World be dangerous?

Exploring the Lower World can be a powerful and transformative experience, but it is important to approach it with respect and caution. Seeking the guidance of an experienced practitioner and practicing self-care can help mitigate any potential risks.

References

• Climate Action Note – Data you need to know
• Our World in Data
• Shamanic journeying: how to get started in 20 minutes