Exploring the Lower World in Shamanic Journeying

Have you ever felt disconnected from yourself and the world around you? Shamanic journeying might be the answer you’re looking for. This ancient practice allows you to connect with your inner self and the spirit realm, guiding you towards greater understanding and healing. In this guide, we will explore the Lower World of shamanic journeying, a realm accessible to all who seek it. Through preparing for the journey, entering and exploring the Lower World, and returning from the journey, you can gain insights and guidance that can transform your life. Let’s dive in and discover the mysteries of shamanic journeying together.

What is Shamanism?

Shamanism is an ancient practice that involves connecting with the spiritual world to gain insight and healing. The origins of shamanism can be traced back to the earliest human societies and have been practiced by indigenous people across the globe. Shamans believe that everything is interconnected, and they work with spirits to bring balance to the physical and spiritual realms. In a shamanic journey, the practitioner enters a trance-like state to connect with their spirit guides and power animals in the Lower or Upper Worlds. Shamanism has gained popularity in recent years as people seek new ways of connecting with their inner selves and dealing with the stresses of modern life. To learn more about understanding shamanic journeying and preparing for a shamanic journey, check out the links /understanding-shamanic-journeying/ and /preparing-for-shamanic-journey/.

What is the Lower World?

The Lower World is a concept in shamanism that refers to an alternate reality beneath the surface of this physical world. It is a place where one can connect with their inner self, spirit guides, and power animals. The Lower World is also referred to as the underworld, where spirits reside, and it represents the unconscious mind of the individual. Explore the Lower World in Shamanic Journeying is a way to heal your soul and find your purpose in life. Here are some characteristics of the Lower World:

The Lower World is a powerful tool in shamanic journeying that allows the individual to access a deeper level of consciousness and connect with their true self. By embracing the teachings and wisdom of the Lower World, individuals can find guidance and healing, and ultimately, achieve a greater sense of harmony and balance in their lives.

Benefits of Exploring the Lower World

One of the main benefits of exploring the Lower World is the ability to connect with one’s inner self and gain a deeper understanding of oneself. Through shamanic journeying, individuals are able to access a state of heightened awareness and tap into their subconscious mind. This can lead to an increased sense of self-awareness, self-esteem, and confidence.

Exploring the Lower World can also provide a sense of spiritual connection and fulfillment. Many individuals report feeling a deeper connection to nature and the world around them. They also feel a stronger connection to their spirit guides and ancestors, which can provide a greater sense of purpose and belonging.

Shamanic journeying can be used for healing purposes. By exploring the Lower World, individuals can connect with their spirit guides and receive guidance on how to overcome physical and emotional challenges. They may also receive healing energies and insights that can help them on their journey towards wellness.

It is important to note that shamanic journeying should be approached with caution, especially for beginners. While there are many benefits to this practice, there are also risks. It is important to learn proper techniques and guidelines for safe shamanic journeying. Those interested in learning more can read our article: Benefits and Risks of Shamanic Journeying.

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Preparing for the Journey

Preparing for your shamanic journey is an essential step towards a successful experience. Creating a sacred space for yourself can aid in establishing a sense of security and clarity, allowing you to connect more deeply with your inner self. Setting intentions before the journey can also help guide your experience and ensure that you receive the guidance and healing you seek. It’s important to approach this practice with an open mind and heart and to trust that your spirit guides will provide what you need. For those new to shamanic journeying, familiarizing yourself with the techniques and traditions of traditional cultures can provide a deeper understanding of the practice. Learning shamanic journeying techniques for beginners can also ensure that you are equipped to explore the Lower World safely and with confidence.

Creating a Sacred Space

Creating a Sacred Space is an important step before starting a shamanic journey. It sets the intention and energy for the journey and provides a safe and protected space for the individual to connect with their inner self. The sacred space can be created in any physical location, be it a room, a garden, or an outdoor setting.

To create a sacred space, one can start by simply smudging the area using sage, palo santo, or other sacred herbs. Smudging helps to purify the space of any negative energies and creates a calm and peaceful atmosphere. After smudging, one can also set up an altar with crystals, candles, or any other meaningful objects that hold spiritual significance.

It’s important to ensure the space is quiet, without any external distractions, and comfortable, with cushions or a blanket to sit on. One can also play soft instrumental music, such as Native American flute or drumming music, to create a calming atmosphere.

Before starting the journey, one can sit quietly and meditate, acknowledging the sacredness of the space, and setting intentions for the journey. This helps to focus the mind and prepare the individual for the journey ahead. It’s essential to approach the journey with reverence, respect and an open mind.

Creating a sacred space is not only important before the journey, but afterwards as well. One can close the sacred space by smudging the area again, expressing gratitude, and acknowledging the guidance and healing received during the shamanic journey.

For more information on shamanic journeying, please check out our article on shamanic journeying in traditional cultures. Also, learn about encountering power animals in shamanic journeys in our article “Encountering Power Animals in Shamanic Journeys” or about healing in shamanic journeying in our article about “Healing in Shamanic Journeying.”

Setting Intentions

Before embarking on a shamanic journey, it is important to set intentions. This means having a clear idea of what you hope to achieve during the journey. Your intentions can be focused on personal growth, healing, problem-solving, or connecting with spirit guides.

Setting intentions can help you stay focused and make the most out of your journey. Here are some tips for setting intentions:

Remember, setting intentions is a personal process, so take the time to reflect on what is truly important to you. By setting intentions, you are taking an active role in your shamanic journey and empowering yourself to receive the most beneficial experience possible.

If you need more help with intention setting, you can check out our article on healing through shamanic journeying or how to connect with ancestors and guides during your journey.

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Entering the Lower World

Entering the Lower World is a significant part of a shamanic journey. This involves a process of meditation and visualization, where a person travels to a different realm to connect with their inner self and explore spiritual energies. To make this process successful, it is important to create a sacred space and set intentions beforehand. The journey may involve encountering helpful guides, animals or spirit beings. One of the most crucial aspects of entering the Lower World is connecting with a Power Animal Guide, which can act as a companion and help navigate the Lower World landscape. It is also important to be open to communication with spirit guides and pay attention to obstacles that may arise during the journey. Overcoming them may lead to receiving guidance and healing.

Power Animal Guide

In shamanic journeying, a power animal guide is a spiritual entity that can provide guidance, protection, and support on your journey to the Lower World. Power animals are often represented as physical animals, but they are also seen as symbolic representations of particular qualities or traits.

To connect with your power animal guide, it is important to first get into a relaxed and meditative state. You can do this by focusing on your breathing and visualizing yourself descending into the Lower World. Once you are in this state, you can call out to your power animal guide and ask it to appear to you.

When your power animal guide appears, take note of its characteristics, behavior, and the emotions you feel in its presence. This can provide insight into what the animal represents and how it can guide you on your journey. Your power animal guide may also offer messages or guidance through symbols or actions.

It is important to establish a relationship with your power animal guide, as it can provide ongoing support and guidance in your shamanic journeying practice. You can do this by expressing gratitude for its presence, asking for its guidance, and acknowledging its role in your spiritual journey.

Remember that your power animal guide may change over time, as you grow and evolve in your practice. Remaining open to new experiences and embracing the guidance of your power animal guide can lead to deeper connections with the Lower World and your inner self.

Lower World Landscape

When entering the Lower World in shamanic journeying, one can expect to encounter a diverse and intricate landscape. As the name suggests, the Lower World is located beneath the surface of the earth and is often described as a mystical and enchanting realm filled with wonder, beauty, and awe-inspiring natural scenery.

The Lower World landscape can vary widely from person to person, depending on their personal beliefs, experiences, and journey intentions. However, there are some common features that many people report seeing in their Lower World journeys. These features may include:

• Forests and Meadows: Many people report seeing lush green forests and meadows filled with vibrant flowers and trees. These spaces feel peaceful and serene, perfect for meditation and reflection.
• Mountains and Caves: The Lower World often has towering mountains and deep caverns that can be explored. These spaces can be both challenging and rewarding and may represent the exploration of one’s inner self.
• Bodies of Water: Lakes, rivers, and oceans can be found in the Lower World. These bodies of water often symbolize emotions and can provide clarity and understanding to one’s feelings.
• Creatures: Animals and other creatures are often encountered in the Lower World. These creatures can serve as guides or messengers and can add depth and meaning to one’s journey.
• Symbols: The Lower World is full of symbolic imagery that can help a person understand themselves and their journey. These symbols may be personal or universal and can provide insights and revelations.

Exploring the Lower World landscape can be an exciting and transformative experience. By engaging with the environment and its inhabitants, a person can learn more about themselves and their connection to the world around them. It is important for the journeyer to remain open and receptive to the experience, allowing themselves to fully immerse in the Lower World landscape and all it has to offer.

Meeting Your Spirit Guides

As you journey through the lower world in shamanic journeying, you will eventually come across your spirit guides. These guides take many forms and may be animals, humans, or even mythical creatures. It’s important to remember that spirit guides are there to help and guide you on your journey.

When you first encounter your spirit guide, take a moment to observe them. What do they look like? What energy do they bring to the space? Trust your instincts when interacting with them. Your guide may want to lead you to a specific place or help you overcome an obstacle.

It’s also important to build a relationship with your spirit guides. This involves acknowledging and honoring them in your daily life. You can do this through simple acts such as offering gratitude or leaving a small offering on your altar.

Spirit guides can offer valuable insights and wisdom that you may not have access to on your own. They can help you navigate your journey and connect with your inner self. By meeting and building a relationship with your spirit guides, you can deepen your journey and gain a sense of clarity and direction in your life.

Exploring the Lower World

As you enter the Lower World during your shamanic journey, your senses will come alive with vivid imagery. Take a moment to observe your surroundings, noticing any details that draw your attention. Interacting with the environment can be an incredibly transformative experience. You may feel drawn to explore a particular area, or you may receive guidance from a spirit guide about where to go. Communicating with your spirit guides is an essential aspect of the Lower World journey. They may take on the form of animals or other beings, but their messages will be clear and meaningful. Overcoming obstacles is an inevitable part of the journey. It is through these challenges that you can gain valuable insights and grow on a spiritual level. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and guidance in navigating these obstacles. Ultimately, through exploration and communion with your spirit guides, you will receive guidance and healing, helping you to reach a deeper understanding of yourself.

Interacting with the Environment

As you journey deep into the Lower World, you’ll encounter a rich and vibrant environment that is waiting for you to explore. One of the most exciting aspects of shamanic journeying is the ability to interact with your surroundings in a way that is not possible in the physical world. In the Lower World, everything is alive and imbued with spirit, from the trees and animals to the plants and the sky above.

To fully experience the Lower World, it’s essential to engage with this environment and explore all that it has to offer. As you journey, take the time to observe the world around you. Notice the colors, textures, and shapes that make up the landscape. Listen to the sounds of the animals and the wind rustling through the trees. Feel the ground beneath your feet and the air on your skin.

As you become more comfortable in the Lower World, you can start to interact with your environment. For example, you might approach a tree and place your hand on its trunk, feeling the rough bark and the life force that flows within. You could speak to an animal and receive a message in response. You may even be asked to perform a task for the spirits, such as gathering a plant or helping an injured animal.

Remember that every interaction is an opportunity for learning and growth. Be open to the possibility of receiving messages and insights from the spirits in the Lower World. Keep an open mind and allow yourself to be guided by your intuition.

Interacting with the environment in the Lower World is a profound and transformative experience. It can help you connect more deeply with the natural world and your spiritual self. So as you continue your shamanic journey, take the time to embrace the world around you and allow yourself to be transformed by its magic.

Communicating with Spirit Guides

Communicating with Spirit Guides is a crucial aspect of exploring the Lower World in Shamanic Journeying. These guides are essentially mentors or helpers who are believed to have the ability to access a higher spiritual realm and offer guidance to those who seek it. Building a strong connection with spirit guides can provide valuable insights and answers to life’s toughest questions.

To communicate with Spirit Guides, one must first recognize their presence and be open to receiving guidance. One may experience their presence through visions, signs, or a feeling of being guided. Taking the time to meditate and connect with one’s own inner self can further help establish a connection with the Spirit Guides.

Once a connection is established, it is important to approach Spirit Guides with respect and humility. One can begin communication by simply asking questions or seeking guidance in a specific area of life. It is essential to trust the process

During the shamanic journey, one may encounter their Spirit Guide in the form of an animal, human, or even an object. The guide may offer guidance through direct communication or through symbols and metaphors that require interpretation.

It is important to remember that communication with Spirit Guides is a two-way street. It is crucial to also listen to the guidance being offered and act accordingly. Trusting and following the guidance can lead to transformative shifts and positive changes in life.

Communicating with Spirit Guides is an integral component of shamanic journeying and can offer profound insights and guidance. Building a strong connection requires an open mind, willingness to listen, and trust in the process. Through effective communication, one can gain valuable guidance and healing in their journey towards self-discovery.

Overcoming Obstacles

Overcoming obstacles in the lower world can be a profound and transformative experience. It is common to encounter obstacles on your journey, whether they are physical or emotional. These obstacles may come in the form of rough terrain, dark caves, or fierce animals. Your power animal guide and spirit guides are there to help you overcome these obstacles and navigate the lower world safely. Here are some steps to follow when you encounter obstacles in the lower world:

1. Stay Calm: It’s natural to feel fear when faced with obstacles, but it’s important to stay calm and remember that you have guides to help you.
2. Ask for Guidance: Turn to your power animal guide or spirit guides and ask for their help in navigating the obstacle.
3. Listen Closely: Pay close attention to any messages or guidance that your guides may provide. It could be a hint for a solution to the obstacle in front of you.
4. Trust your Intuition: Your intuition is a powerful tool in shamanic journeying. Use it to guide you through the obstacle if your guides have not given specific instructions.
5. Find a Solution: Use creativity and ingenuity to come up with a solution to the obstacle you are facing. Perhaps there is a hidden path or a tool you can use?
6. Move Forward: Don’t get stuck on the obstacle, continue your journey forward. Remember, obstacles are a natural part of the shamanic journey, and they are there to help you grow and learn.

By following these steps, you can overcome any obstacles that may arise in your lower world journey, and gain valuable insights and growth in the process. Keeping a positive mindset and trusting in your guides can help make the journey easier and more fulfilling.

Receiving Guidance and Healing

As you journey through the Lower World, you may receive guidance and healing from your spirit guides and power animal. This guidance may come in the form of symbols, visions, or direct messages. These messages may help you gain clarity on a particular situation in your life or provide insight into your own inner self.

If you are struggling with a specific issue or problem, you may ask your guides for guidance. Use visualization techniques to help you communicate with them. Ask your guides to show you the path you need to take to overcome the issue or to help you see the bigger picture. It’s important to trust the guidance you receive, even if it may not make sense at first.

In addition to guidance, you may also receive healing during your journey. Your spirit guides may help you release negative emotions or patterns that no longer serve you. They may also provide you with emotional or physical healing.

As you receive guidance and healing, it’s important to remain open to the experience and trust in the process. Remember that your guides and power animal have your best interests at heart and are there to support you on your journey. When your journey is over, take time to reflect on the guidance you received and how it may apply to your life. Use journaling or meditation as a way to continue to connect with your guides and receive further guidance as needed.

Returning from the Journey

As you emerge from your journey to the Lower World, it’s important to take some time to reflect on your experience. Spend some quiet moments alone to process the messages and insights you received. Maintain a connection with the Lower World by incorporating shamanic practices into your daily life, such as meditation, ritual, and offerings to your spirit guides. Journaling can also be a helpful tool for tracking your progress and identifying patterns in your journeys. Integrate the lessons you learned into your daily life, making changes where necessary and keeping the wisdom of your experience close to your heart. Remember to always approach your journeys with an open mind and heart, ready to receive the guidance and healing that await you in the Lower World.

Maintaining a Connection with the Lower World

Maintaining a Connection with the Lower World is essential for anyone who wishes to continue receiving guidance and healing from the spirit realm. Here are a few ways to stay connected:

• Meditation: Regular meditation can help you maintain a strong connection with the Lower World. Set aside time each day to focus on your breathing and visualize yourself descending into the Lower World.
• Nature Immersion: Spending time outdoors, especially in natural settings like forests or near water, can help you feel more connected to the natural world and the spirit realm.
• Rituals: Creating rituals that honor your connection to the Lower World can help you feel more grounded and connected. Lighting candles or burning incense can be part of a daily or weekly ritual to connect with the spirit world.
• Animal Guides: If you have encountered an animal guide during your journey, you can continue to work with them to maintain your connection with the Lower World. Research their symbolism and incorporate it into your daily life.
• Gratitude Practice: Practicing gratitude for the guidance and healing you have received from the Lower World can help you stay connected. Take time each day to reflect on the blessings in your life and thank your spirit guides.

By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can maintain your connection with the Lower World and continue to receive guidance and healing from the spirit realm. Remember, the more you work on this connection, the stronger it will become.

Journaling and Reflection

Journaling and reflection are important parts of the shamanic journey experience. After completing the journey, it is crucial to take some time to reflect on the experience and write down any insights, images, or messages that came up.

Journaling allows us to process our experiences in a way that integrates them into our lives. It helps us remember important details, as well as identify patterns and themes that may emerge over time. Writing down our thoughts and feelings can also be cathartic and provide a sense of release.

When journaling about a shamanic journey, it’s important to write down not only what happened during the journey, but also any thoughts or emotions that came up afterwards. Questions to consider may include:

• What did I learn about myself?
• What messages did my spirit guides share with me?
• What aspects of the journey were particularly challenging or rewarding?

Reflection is also an essential aspect of the shamanic journey process. Taking time to sit with our experiences and reflect on their meaning can deepen our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world.

Some ways to reflect include:

• Meditating on any messages or insights received during the journey
• Contemplating any challenges or obstacles faced during the journey and how they can be applied to daily life
• Checking in with any emotions that came up and exploring their origins and significance

By journaling and reflecting on our shamanic journey experiences, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our connection to the spiritual realm. It allows us to integrate the lessons learned and messages received into our daily lives, and continue to grow and evolve on our spiritual path.

Integration into Daily Life

Integration into daily life is a crucial part of shamanic journeying. It involves incorporating the wisdom, guidance, and healing received during the journey into our routine lives. It is necessary to maintain a deeper connection with the Lower World and the spiritual beings encountered during the journey.

One way to integrate the experience is by incorporating a daily spiritual practice, such as meditation or gratitude practices. By setting aside time each day to connect with the spiritual realm, we keep the connection to the Lower World alive. It can also be helpful to recall the journey and its teachings frequently throughout the day. This can be done by setting up reminders or creating a ritual around the journaling.

Additionally, it is essential to make changes in our behaviors and actions based on the messages received during the journey. It may mean changing habits, relationships, or life situations to align with the values and guidance received during the journey. This can be challenging, but it is necessary to create a meaningful change in our lives.

Finally, sharing our experiences with others can help reinforce the insights and messages we receive during the journey. Talking to a trusted friend or seeking guidance from a shamanic practitioner can also help distill the messages we receive and offer a new perspective on their meaning.

Integrating the lessons and guidance from the Lower World is a crucial part of shamanic journeying. By incorporating daily practices, reflecting on the journey, making changes in our lives, and sharing our experiences, we can maintain a deep connection with the spiritual realm and continue to thrive in our everyday lives.

Conclusion

As the journey to the Lower World comes to an end, it’s important to take the time to reflect on the experience and its impact. The Lower World offers a unique space for exploration and connection with the Self and Spirit Guides. By following the steps outlined in this guide, individuals can tap into the healing and guidance available in this realm.

It’s important to remember that each journey will be unique and may provide different insights each time. Over time, the relationship with the Lower World and its inhabitants, such as Power Animal Guides and Spirit Guides, may deepen and evolve as well.

Maintaining a connection with the Lower World can be done through continued practice of shamanic journeying and honoring the sacred space created during the journey. Journaling can also be a helpful tool for processing insights and integrating them into daily life.

Overall, exploring the Lower World in shamanic journeying provides a powerful opportunity for self-discovery and spiritual connection. By setting intentions, creating a sacred space, and being open to the guidance and healing available, individuals can deepen their understanding of themselves and the world around them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes shamanism different from other spiritual practices?

Shamanism involves using altered states of consciousness to connect with the spirit world and gain wisdom and healing. It often involves working with power animals, spirit guides, and the elements of nature.

Can anyone learn to journey to the Lower World?

Yes! Shamanic journeying is a skill that can be learned with practice and guidance. Anyone who is willing to put in the effort can learn to journey to the Lower World.

How can I create a sacred space for journeying?

You can create a sacred space by setting up an altar, lighting candles or incense, playing calming music, and calling in your guides and ancestors for protection and support.

What types of intentions can I set for my journey?

Intentions can include things like gaining clarity on a particular issue, receiving healing, or connecting with a specific spirit guide or power animal.

What should I do if I don’t have a power animal guide?

You can ask for a power animal to come to you in your journey. Alternatively, you can journey to the Lower World and explore until you find one who wants to work with you.

How can I communicate with my spirit guides?

Communication with spirit guides can be through words, feelings, images, or sensations. Trust the information that comes to you and ask for clarification if needed.

What are some common obstacles that may arise in the Lower World?

Obstacles may include encountering shadow selves, facing fears or doubts, or feeling disoriented or lost. It’s important to trust the process and ask for guidance from your spirit guides when needed.

What types of guidance or healing can I expect to receive in the Lower World?

The types of guidance or healing you receive may vary depending on your intentions and the messages your guides have for you. You may receive insights into a particular issue, experience emotional release, or receive physical healing.

How often should I journey to the Lower World?

There is no set frequency for journeying, but it’s important to allow time for integration between sessions. Some people journey once a week, while others may journey once a month or less frequently.

Can journeying to the Lower World have negative effects?

When done with proper preparation and intention, journeying to the Lower World is generally safe. However, it’s important to work with a trained practitioner if you have a history of trauma or mental health concerns.

References

• The Shaman’s Journey: Moving Between the Worlds
• Shamanic journeying: how to get started in 20 minutes