Journeying Through the Three Worlds in Core Shamanism

As humans, we often find ourselves seeking answers, guidance, and healing. Core Shamanism is a practice that can help us connect with the spiritual world and find solutions to our problems. Within Core Shamanism, there are Three Worlds that one can explore through journeying. These worlds are the Lower World, Middle World, and Upper World. Each world has its own unique characteristics and offers different experiences for those who journey to them. In this article, we will delve deeper into the concept of Core Shamanism and explore the Three Worlds step-by-step, learning how to journey to each world and what to expect when we get there.

What is Core Shamanism?

What is Core Shamanism?

Core Shamanism is a modern spiritual practice that draws from the common elements of traditional shamanism. This practice was developed by anthropologist Michael Harner, who traveled to South America in the 1960s to learn about shamanic practices. Core Shamanism seeks to make shamanic practices accessible to a wider audience by removing cultural elements that may not be relevant to modern practitioners. This practice focuses on the belief that shamans can access a spiritual realm to gain knowledge and wisdom that is not available in our physical realm.

Core Shamanism centers around a few core practices, including journeying and connecting with power animals. Journeying is the practice of entering an altered state of consciousness to access the spiritual realm. Shamanic practitioners believe that journeying can help them gain insights, knowledge, and healing. Power animals are spirits that take on animal forms and serve as guides and protectors for shamanic practitioners during their journeying practices. These practices are used to gain wisdom, insights, and to connect with divine beings such as ancestors and spirit helpers.

Core Shamanism is focused on individual spiritual practice and is non-dogmatic. It is open to people from various backgrounds and cultures, regardless of faith or religious beliefs. The main goal of Core Shamanism is to help practitioners develop a deeper connection with their inner selves and the spiritual realm. This practice values the integration of shamanic experiences with daily life. Core Shamanism sees the spiritual realm as an integral part of our physical reality and believes that accessing it can bring healing, insight, and guidance into our lives.

Looking to understand more about Core Shamanism? Check out our article about importance of Core Shamanism or read up on the benefits of Core Shamanism practice in our dedicated guide.

What are the Three Worlds?

In Core Shamanism, the Three Worlds are the foundation of the shamanic journey. The Three Worlds are the Lower World, the Middle World, and the Upper World. Each world has a unique landscape and set of spiritual beings that can be encountered through shamanic journeying.

The Lower World is often depicted as an underground realm, a natural cave, or an underworld cave. It is inhabited by creatures such as wolves, bears, and snakes. These animals are not to be feared, but rather, they are guides that can lead the journeyer to their own spiritual power animal or a healer animal. The Lower World is a place of healing, where the journeyer can go to find answers to their questions. The Lower World can offer healing and insights that can lead to personal growth and transformation.

The Middle World is the realm of our daily lives, where we interact with other people, animals, and nature. It is the physical world we perceive through our senses. In the Middle World, a shamanic practitioner can journey to seek guidance and wisdom that may not be available to the everyday mind. Here one can encounter spirit helpers who are willing to assist the journeyer to understand their problems and find solutions. In the Middle World, the knowledge and experience gained can be utilized for practical purposes in daily life.

The Upper World is often depicted as a celestial realm, a place of beauty, and pure light. This world is inhabited by celestial beings such as angels, ascended masters, and other light beings who offer spiritual guidance and wisdom. Journeying to the Upper World can provide insight into life’s deeper mysteries and universal truths. The Upper World can guide one to connect with their higher purpose and realize their true spiritual potential.

The Three Worlds represent the different realms of shamanic consciousness that one can access through journeying. Each world offers its own set of insights, teachings, and messages. Exploring the Three Worlds is a fundamental aspect of Core Shamanism and can offer a rich spiritual experience that can lead to personal growth and transformation.

The Lower World

The Lower World in Core Shamanism is a realm that lies beneath us, below the surface of the Earth. It is often depicted as a dark and mysterious place, full of tunnels and caves, where we can encounter animal spirits, plant spirits, and other creatures that can help us on our spiritual journey.

To reach the Lower World, one must enter a state of trance or heightened awareness through rhythmic drumming, meditation, or other techniques. Once in a trance state, the shamanic practitioner can envision a hole or opening in the ground and imagine themselves descending through it, guided by a spirit animal or helper.

In the Lower World, the practitioner may encounter animal spirits that offer guidance, protection, and healing. These spirits may take the form of wolves, bears, snakes, or other animals that hold significance for the shamanic practitioner. Plant spirits may also be encountered, which can offer healing and wisdom through the use of herbal remedies and other natural substances.

The Lower World is often associated with deep emotional healing, as it allows practitioners to connect with their innermost selves and confront past traumas. Through journeying to the Lower World, a shamanic practitioner may experience profound insights and receive guidance on how to live a more fulfilling life. With the help of animal and plant spirits, one can gain a greater understanding of the interconnectedness of all living beings and the natural cycles of life and death.

Exploring the Lower World can be a powerful tool for personal and spiritual growth, offering deep insights and transformative healing. By connecting with the spirits of the natural world, we can gain a greater appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the universe, and learn to live in harmony with all beings.

How to Journey to the Lower World

Journeying to the lower world in core shamanism is a powerful way to tap into your inner self and connect with your spirit guides and power animals. To begin the journey, you need to create a safe and sacred space where you can focus on your intention to journey.

Begin by finding a quiet place where you will not be disturbed. Sit or lie down and close your eyes, taking deep breaths and relaxing your body. Visualize a hole or tunnel in the earth that you can climb down into. Focus on the intention of journeying to the lower world and ask your spirit guides for protection and guidance.

As you crawl through the tunnel, keep your focus on the intention of journeying to the lower world. You may encounter obstacles or distractions along the way, but trust in your guides to help you navigate through them.

Once you reach the bottom of the tunnel, you should find yourself in a different world. Take time to observe your surroundings and connect with the spirits and energy of this realm. As you explore the lower world, you may encounter power animals, helpful spirits, or even ancestors who are waiting to guide and support you.

When you feel ready to return to the physical world, simply retrace your steps and climb back up the tunnel. Thank your guides and spirits for their assistance, and remember to ground yourself back into your physical body.

Journeying to the lower world can provide essential spiritual healing for those looking for insights and personal growth. By exploring these hidden depths, you can discover parts of yourself that you might have never known existed.

If you want to learn more about journeying and spiritual healing, check out the journeying spiritual healing article. Also, if you’re interested in discovering your power animals, consider reading the core shamanism power animals article.

Encountering Spirits in the Lower World

Encountering spirits in the lower world can be an intense and transformative experience. It’s important to approach each spirit encounter with an open mind and a respectful attitude. Here are some tips for navigating the lower world and connecting with the spirits you encounter:

Tip	Description
Set your intention	Before journeying to the lower world, it can be helpful to set a clear intention for what you hope to accomplish. This can help guide your journey and attract the right spirits to connect with.
Use your senses	Be receptive to the sights, sounds, and sensations of the lower world. The more present and engaged you are, the more likely you are to have a meaningful encounter with the spirits there.
Trust your intuition	If a particular spirit seems to be calling to you, trust your intuition and approach it with curiosity and respect. Remember, not every spirit encounter will be positive, so it’s important to be discerning and protect your energy if necessary.
Ask for guidance	If you feel lost or unsure in the lower world, don’t be afraid to ask for guidance from your spirit helpers. They can offer valuable insight and support as you navigate this realm.
Leave offerings	As a sign of respect and gratitude, it’s common to leave offerings to the spirits you’ve encountered in the lower world. This can be anything from a small piece of food to a symbolic object.

Meeting spirits in the lower world can be a powerful way to gain insights about yourself, heal past wounds, and connect with the unseen energies that surround us. By approaching each encounter with respect and an open heart, you can create a deep and meaningful relationship with the spirits of the lower world.

If you want to learn more about core shamanism, you can read our article on connecting with your inner shaman. It’s important to note that ethical practices are a fundamental part of core shamanism. To learn more about the importance of ethics in shamanic practice, read our article on ethical core shamanism.

Healing and Insights in the Lower World

In the Lower World, you may encounter spirits that can provide healing and insights. These spirits can take the form of animals, plants, or even mythical beings. They can provide guidance on how to heal physical, emotional, or spiritual ailments.

One way to access these spirits is to set an intention before journeying to the Lower World. You can ask for guidance on a specific issue or simply ask for healing and insights. Once you arrive in the Lower World, you may encounter a spirit that is willing to help you. This spirit may provide you with a symbolic healing gift or take you on a journey to show you how to heal yourself.

It’s important to remember that the healing process may take time and may require multiple journeys. Each time you journey to the Lower World, you may receive new insights and guidance.

Here are some examples of healing and insights that can be gained in the Lower World:

– Healing physical ailments: You may encounter a spirit that can help heal physical ailments such as chronic pain or illness. The spirit may take the form of a plant that can provide medicine or a creature that can offer healing energy.

– Healing emotional wounds: You may encounter a spirit that can help heal emotional wounds such as grief or trauma. The spirit may take the form of a nurturing mother figure or a wise elder who can offer guidance and support.

– Gaining clarity: You may encounter a spirit that can help you gain clarity on a specific issue or decision. The spirit may take the form of a wise animal that can guide you through a maze or a mythical being that can offer insight and perspective.

– Connecting with ancestors: You may encounter spirits of your ancestors who can offer guidance and wisdom. They can provide insight into your family history and help you connect with your roots.

Remember, the Lower World is a space of deep healing and transformation. Trust that the spirits will guide you to where you need to go and offer the healing and insights that you need.

The Middle World

The Middle World is the realm of our physical existence, where we experience the material world in our daily lives. It is also the realm of human consciousness, where we hold our thoughts, beliefs, and emotions. In Core Shamanism, the Middle World is seen as the realm where we can address the practical aspects of our lives, such as problem-solving, learning, and connecting with our power animals and spirit guides.

To journey to the Middle World, focus on your intention as you begin your shamanic journey. Imagine yourself traveling through a portal or a doorway, and visualize yourself arriving in a natural setting that represents the Middle World. This could be a forest, a beach, or a mountain range – whatever resonates with you.

Once you have arrived, take time to explore your surroundings with all your senses. What colors, smells, and sounds do you notice? Is there a path you can follow? If so, follow it and see where it leads you. Allow yourself to be open to whatever experiences may come your way.

In the Middle World, you may encounter spirit guides or power animals who can offer you guidance or assistance. These guides could come in the form of a person, an animal, or even a plant. Trust your intuition and see who appears to you.

If you encounter an animal, pay attention to any messages it may have for you. Each animal has its own symbolism and meaning, and can offer insights into your life. For example, a hawk may represent a higher perspective or keen insight, while a bear may represent strength or protection.

The Middle World is also a place to learn and grow. You may encounter teachers or mentors who can offer you knowledge or skills. These could be human or spirit teachers, and may communicate with you through words, symbols, or impressions.

If you have a problem or challenge that you are facing in your life, you can bring it with you to the Middle World and ask for guidance. See what insights or solutions come to you as you explore this realm. You may find that the answers you seek are already within you, and the Middle World offers you a space to access that wisdom.

The Middle World offers us a space to connect with the practical aspects of our lives and to learn and grow. By exploring this realm, we can gain valuable insights and connect with helpful guides and power animals who can assist us on our journey.

How to Journey to the Middle World

To journey to the Middle World in core shamanism, there are several steps to follow. Remember that each individual’s journey will be unique, so it’s important to trust your own inner experience.

1. Set your intention: Before embarking on your journey, it’s important to set a clear intention. What do you hope to accomplish? What questions do you need answers to? Take some time to reflect on your intention and phrase it in a way that is clear and specific.

2. Enter a trance state: In order to journey to the Middle World, you will need to enter a trance state. This can be achieved through various methods such as drumming, rattling, or guided meditation. Choose a method that works best for you and allows you to fully relax and let go.

3. Visualize a portal: Once you are in a trance state, visualize a portal that will take you to the Middle World. This portal can take on any shape or form that resonates with you. Some people visualize a tree with a hole at the base, while others see a door or a tunnel. Whatever you visualize, make sure it feels safe and inviting.

4. Step through the portal: When you feel ready, step through the portal and allow yourself to be transported to the Middle World. As you enter this realm, take note of your surroundings. What do you see, hear, and feel? Are there any significant symbols or archetypes present?

5. Meet your guide: In the Middle World, you may have the opportunity to meet a guide or power animal who will assist you on your journey. Keep an open mind and allow this guide to come to you. They may appear as an animal, a human, or a mythical creature.

6. Ask for guidance: Once you have met your guide, ask them for guidance on your intention. Be clear and specific in your questions. Your guide may offer insights, advice, or new perspectives.

7. Return to ordinary reality: When you feel complete with your journey, thank your guide and visualize yourself returning through the portal to ordinary reality. Take some time to ground yourself and integrate your experience.

Remember, the journey to the Middle World is a personal and transformative experience. Allow yourself to trust the process and surrender to the unknown. With practice and patience, you will deepen your connection to the Middle World and the wisdom it has to offer.

Meeting Guides and Power Animals in the Middle World

Meeting guides and power animals in the middle world is an essential element of core shamanism. In this world, Shamanic Practitioners aim to contact non-ordinary reality beings that help them learn, overcome obstacles, and grow spiritually.

One of the most common encounters in the middle world is with guides or teachers who offer wisdom and insights about life. They may appear in any form, from human-like figures to animals or even abstract entities. These guides can offer guidance, make suggestions, or direct the practitioner towards the right path, and empower them with vital knowledge.

In addition to guides, power animals are significant allies in the middle world. These animals have specific characteristics that a practitioner can incorporate into their personality to improve their strengths and skills. Power Animals also aid in healing and offer protection, and connect the practitioner to the natural world.

To meet guides and power animals in the middle world, a practitioner must first journey through meditation or drumming. The journey involves entering into a light trance state where the practitioner’s consciousness shifts and connects with the non-ordinary reality beings in the middle world. It’s crucial to have trust and faith in the process, as doubts and fears could prevent the journey.

Once in the middle world, the practitioner may call out for a guide or power animal they want to work with. They must wait patiently for the being to appear and not force any actions. The being will introduce themselves and offer their services, and the practitioner should maintain respect and gratitude towards the guide or power animal.

During the encounter, the practitioner must pay close attention to the details of the experience. The color, shape, and sound of the being, as well as any messages or insights, are significant indicators of their purpose and how the practitioner can benefit from their presence. These beings offer profound insights that can facilitate growth, development, and healing.

Meeting guides and power animals in the middle world is an enlightening experience that helps practitioners expand their awareness and knowledge. By connecting with non-ordinary reality beings, practitioners can receive guidance, wisdom, and support. Journeying in the middle world encourages practitioners to trust their intuition and strengthen their connection with the natural world.

Learning and Problem-Solving in the Middle World

When journeying to the Middle World in Core Shamanism, one can encounter numerous guides and power animals that can aid in learning and problem-solving. Here are some tips on how to make the most out of your Middle World journeying:

1. Set your intention
Before journeying, set a clear intention for what you hope to learn or solve in the Middle World. This will give direction to your journey and help you focus on the most relevant experiences and encounters.

2. Look for clues in your environment
Once you arrive in the Middle World, pay attention to the environment around you. The Middle World is often portrayed as a mirror of the physical world, so you may find yourself in familiar landscapes or encountering objects that represent the issue you are trying to solve. Take note of any symbols or messages that come your way as they often hold deeper meanings and significance.

3. Connect with guides and power animals
Guides and power animals in the Middle World can offer valuable insight and wisdom. Seek out those you feel drawn to and ask for their assistance in your learning or problem-solving journey. They may have specific messages, exercises, or practices to suggest that can help with your particular issue.

4. Engage in dialogue
While in the Middle World, don’t be afraid to

engage in dialogue with its inhabitants. Ask questions and listen carefully to their responses. They may help you gain new perspectives, offer different approaches to solving problems, or provide deeper insights into the issues at hand.

5. Practice gratitude
After returning from your Middle World journey, take time to reflect on what you learned and experienced. Expressing gratitude for the guidance and insights received can help solidify your newfound knowledge and bring positivity and good energy into your life.

Journeying to the Middle World in Core Shamanism can be a powerful tool for learning and problem-solving. Approaching it with intention and an open mind can lead to transformative experiences and solutions to challenging issues.

The Upper World

The Upper World is the place where we connect with divine and celestial spirits, and access a higher knowledge and wisdom. It is a realm of light and clarity, where we can gain a deeper understanding of our purpose and the universe.

To journey to the Upper World, you can begin by finding a comfortable and quiet place to sit or lie down, and entering into a deep state of relaxation or meditation. You can use your breath or a drumming or rattling sound to help you enter into the trance state. Once you feel yourself becoming deeply relaxed, you can intend to travel to the Upper World. You may visualize yourself climbing a staircase or a tree, or flying upwards into the sky.

In the Upper World, you may encounter spirits of light, such as angels or ascended masters, who can provide you with guidance and insight. You may also meet spiritual ancestors or teachers who have passed on from this world. These beings may offer you wisdom, healing, or protection, and may help you to connect with your higher self or soul.

The Upper World can offer profound insights and understanding, helping you to gain clarity about your life’s purpose and path. You may receive guidance on important decisions or challenges you are facing, or receive messages of hope and encouragement. You may be shown glimpses of your past or future lives, or gain a greater understanding of universal truths.

Benefits of Exploring the Upper World
1. Expanded Awareness: Exploring the Upper World can help you to broaden your perspective and gain a deeper understanding of your place in the universe.
2. Spiritual Connection: Connecting with divine spirits in the Upper World can help you to deepen your spiritual practice and feel more connected to something greater than yourself.
3. Inner Peace: Experiencing the peace and light of the Upper World can help you to feel more calm and centered in your daily life, and find inner peace amidst the chaos of the world.

Exploring the Upper World as a part of Core Shamanism can offer profound benefits for spiritual growth and healing. By learning to access this realm of divine spirits and wisdom, we can gain a deeper understanding of our place in the universe and find guidance and support in our journeys.

How to Journey to the Upper World

To begin your journey to the Upper World in Core Shamanism, you must first find a quiet and safe space where you can relax and enter into a trance state. Sit or lie down comfortably, close your eyes and take some deep breaths, focusing on your intention to journey to the Upper World.

Begin to visualize a rope or ladder leading up into the sky. Visualize yourself climbing up the rope or ladder, getting higher and higher, until you reach a portal that leads you into the Upper World. The portal could take the form of a cave, a hole in the sky, or any other image that comes to you.

Once you enter the Upper World, take some time to explore your surroundings and get comfortable with the energy of this realm. The Upper World is often described as a realm of light, beauty, and wisdom, and it may feel expansive and uplifting.

As you explore, you may encounter spirits or divine beings who can offer guidance and wisdom. Be open to these encounters and allow yourself to receive the wisdom they offer. You may also find yourself in awe of the beauty and mystery of this realm, and this can be an opportunity for spiritual growth and transformation.

When you are ready to return to the mundane world, find your way back to the portal and return through it. As you come back down the rope or ladder, return to your physical body by taking some deep breaths and grounding yourself. Take some time to reflect on your experiences in the Upper World and integrate the wisdom you gained into your daily life.

Remember that the journey to the Upper World should be done with respect and reverence for the spirits and beings you encounter. This is a sacred and powerful journey, and approaching it with sincerity and humility can help you receive the most benefit from your experiences.

Encountering Divine Spirits in the Upper World

Encountering Divine Spirits in the Upper World can be a life-changing experience for many people who practice Core Shamanism. The spirits encountered in the Upper World are elevated beings with immense knowledge and wisdom, and they can provide you with guidance and insight that can help you improve your life and overcome obstacles.

When you journey to the Upper World, you may encounter spirits such as angels, ascended masters, and other divine beings. These spirits are often associated with light and beauty, and their presence can be overwhelming and awe-inspiring. They may appear as radiant figures made of light, or they may take on familiar forms that resonate with you personally.

During your encounters with these divine spirits, it is important to remain humble and respectful. They are not there to do your bidding or answer your every question, but they can offer guidance and insights that can be invaluable in your personal and spiritual growth. Some tips for encountering divine spirits in the Upper World include:

1. Set the intention to meet with divine beings before journeying.

2. Approach the spirits with humility and gratitude.

3. Ask if they have any messages or guidance for you.

4. Listen carefully to any messages that come through and ask questions for clarification.

5. Thank the spirits for their guidance before returning to the Middle World.

It is important to note that encountering divine spirits in the Upper World is not an everyday occurrence, and some people may never experience this type of encounter. If you do not encounter divine spirits during your journeys, do not be discouraged. There is still much to be gained from exploring the other worlds and encountering other spirits.

When encountering divine spirits in the Upper World, it is essential to remember that the information and guidance they provide is not the ultimate truth. It is simply guidance that resonates with you at this particular moment of your journey. As your journey continues, your understanding and perception of these messages may change, and that is perfectly normal.

Encountering divine spirits in the Upper World can be an incredible and enlightening experience for those who practice Core Shamanism. With humility and respect, you can gain guidance and wisdom from the spirits of light and beauty that reside in this world. This experience can transform your life and help you to become a more spiritually aligned and grounded person.

Wisdom and Guidance from the Upper World

When journeying to the upper world in Core Shamanism, one can access the realm of divine spirits who offer powerful guidance and wisdom. These spirits often take the form of angels, gods, and goddesses from various belief systems and cultures. They are sources of inspiration, knowledge, and unconditional love for those who seek their guidance.

One of the primary purposes of seeking wisdom and guidance from the upper world is to gain a deeper understanding of our personal journey and purpose in life. These spirits can provide us with insights into our strengths, weaknesses, and passions, as well as offer guidance on how to overcome obstacles and achieve our goals.

The wisdom and guidance provided by the spirits of the upper world can also help us connect more deeply with our intuition and inner wisdom. They can guide us to trust our instincts and encourage us to tap into our inner resources to make important decisions. This can be especially helpful during times of uncertainty or transition in life.

The wisdom and guidance offered by the spirits of the upper world can provide us with a sense of spiritual grounding and connection. Through their teachings, we can gain a greater understanding of the interconnectedness of all things and our place in the world. This newfound sense of connection can help us navigate our lives with greater purpose and direction.

Seeking wisdom and guidance from the upper world in Core Shamanism can be a profound experience that can help us gain a deeper understanding of our journey through life. By tapping into the guidance of these divine spirits, we can gain insights, inspiration, and a greater sense of connection to the world around us.

Conclusion

Exploring the three worlds in core shamanism can be a transformative experience that provides insight, healing, and guidance. By journeying to the Lower World, Middle World, and Upper World, shamanic practitioners can connect with spirits, learn from guides and power animals, and receive wisdom from divine beings.

Applying Three Worlds in Shamanic Practice

The three worlds can be used in shamanic practice to address a variety of issues, from physical and emotional healing to personal growth and spiritual development. Practitioners can journey to the Lower World to retrieve lost parts of the soul, seek guidance in the Middle World for problem-solving, and receive divine insight in the Upper World.

Benefits of Exploring the Three Worlds

Exploring the three worlds in core shamanism can have a number of benefits. Not only can it lead to profound personal growth and healing, but it can also expand one’s perspective and understanding of the world. Additionally, journeying to the three worlds can provide a deep sense of connection to the earth, nature, and the divine.

In conclusion, exploring the three worlds in core shamanism can be a powerful tool for personal transformation and spiritual development. By learning to journey to the Lower World, Middle World, and Upper World, shamanic practitioners can connect with spirit guides and power animals, gain wisdom from divine beings, and address a wide range of personal and spiritual issues. Whether used for healing, growth, or exploration, the three worlds offer endless possibilities for those willing to undertake the journey.

Applying Three Worlds in Shamanic Practice

When it comes to applying the concept of the Three Worlds in shamanic practice, there are many ways to go about it. Here are a few examples:

1. Journeying
Journeying is the act of entering a trance state to connect with the spiritual realm. Practitioners of core shamanism often use journeying to explore the Three Worlds and connect with the spirits that reside within them. By journeying to the Lower World, the Middle World, or the Upper World, you can gain insight, healing, and guidance from the spirits that reside there.

2. Dreamwork
Just as you can journey to the Three Worlds in a trance state, you can also visit them in your dreams. By paying attention to your dreams and working with them, you can connect with the spirits of the Three Worlds and receive messages and guidance for your waking life. Dreamwork can be done alone or with a shamanic practitioner who can help you interpret the symbolism in your dreams.

3. Ceremony
Many shamanic practices involve ceremony, which can be a powerful way to connect with the spirits of the Three Worlds. Ceremonies may involve drumming, chanting, dancing, or other rituals that help practitioners enter a trance state and connect with the spiritual realm. By performing ceremonies that honor the spirits of the Three Worlds, practitioners can deepen their connection and receive guidance and healing.

4. Connection with Nature
In core shamanism, nature is seen as a manifestation of the spirits of the Three Worlds. By connecting with nature and spending time in natural settings, practitioners can also connect with the spirits of the Three Worlds. This can be as simple as going for a walk in the woods or sitting by a stream, or as elaborate as participating in a vision quest or other nature-based ceremony.

Incorporating these practices and others that resonate with you can be a powerful way to apply the concept of the Three Worlds in your shamanic practice. By connecting with the spirits of the Lower World, Middle World, and Upper World, you can gain greater insight, healing, and guidance for your life.

Benefits of Exploring the Three Worlds

Exploring the Three Worlds in core shamanism provides a multitude of benefits, whether it’s for personal growth, healing, or learning. Here are some of the benefits you can expect:

1. Gain a deeper understanding of yourself: By journeying into the lower world, you can connect with your subconscious mind and explore your inner selves. You can gain insight into your emotions, thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors. This can help you see aspects of yourself that you may have been ignoring or avoiding.
2. Find new solutions to problems: In the middle world, you can ask for guidance and advice from your spirit guides or power animals. They can reveal new perspectives and ideas that can help you solve problems and overcome obstacles in your life.
3. Improve your intuition: Journeying into the upper world can help you connect with your higher self, angels, or divine spirits. These spirits can provide you with wisdom, guidance, and inspiration. By following their lead, you can develop your intuition and learn to trust your inner voice.
4. Discover hidden talents and gifts: While journeying through the three worlds, you may encounter teachers, allies, or helpers who can assist you in developing your gifts, talents, or skills. They may reveal to you abilities you didn’t know you had or give you the confidence to pursue your passions.
5. Heal emotional wounds: The lower world is an excellent place to work on emotional healing. By facing the aspects of yourself that you’ve been avoiding or suppressing, you can release negative emotions and trauma from your past. Additionally, you can call upon ancestral spirits or healers to assist you in healing your wounds.
6. Connect with nature: Core shamanism teaches us that everything in nature has a spirit. By journeying through the three worlds, you can connect with the spirits of plants, animals, and nature itself. This can deepen your understanding of the natural world and give you a greater appreciation for the environment.

By exploring the three worlds, you can gain a renewed sense of purpose, direction, and meaning in your life. You may discover new aspects of yourself, find new solutions to problems, and unlock hidden potentials. Additionally, journeying can be a fun and exciting way to experience altered states of consciousness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of Core Shamanism?

The purpose of Core Shamanism is to reconnect individuals with the spiritual world and use the power of this connection to bring about healing and personal growth.

Do I need any prior experience to explore the Three Worlds?

No, prior experience is not necessary for exploring the Three Worlds. Beginners and experienced practitioners can both benefit from this practice.

How do I prepare for my journey to the Three Worlds?

Preparing for your journey involves setting intentions, cleansing your energy, and creating a safe and quiet space. Specific preparation techniques may vary between practitioners.

What is the Lower World?

The Lower World is the first of the Three Worlds and represents the subconscious and primal aspects of oneself. It is often depicted as a cave or forest.

What is the Middle World?

The Middle World is the second of the Three Worlds and represents the physical realm and ordinary reality. It is often depicted as the world around us in daily life.

What is the Upper World?

The Upper World is the third of the Three Worlds and represents the spiritual and divine aspects of oneself. It is often depicted as a beautiful landscape or heavenly realm.

How do I know if I am journeying to the Three Worlds correctly?

Trust your intuition and allow yourself to fully immerse in the experience. You may experience physical sensations or mental imagery during the journey that indicate you are on the correct path.

What types of spirits might I encounter in the Lower World?

You may encounter animal spirits, elemental spirits, or other spirits who can offer guidance, healing, or protection.

Can I receive guidance or insights from my journeys in the Middle World?

Yes, the Middle World is often used for problem-solving or gaining insights into daily life situations. You may encounter guides or power animals who can offer assistance in these areas.

What kinds of wisdom or guidance might I receive from the Upper World?

The Upper World is typically associated with divine or celestial beings who can offer profound insights, spiritual guidance, or assistance with life purposes and soul growth.

References

• Beyond Shamanism Course – STRONG INSTITUTE