Exploring Different Forms of Shamanic Journeying

Embarking on a shamanic journey can be a powerful and transformative experience. Shamanic journeying involves entering a trance-like state to communicate with the spirit world and receive guidance and healing. There are several forms of shamanic journeying, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. In this guide, we will explore the different types of shamanic journeying and the tools and techniques used to facilitate these experiences. We’ll also cover how to prepare for your journey, what to expect while in the spirit world, and how to integrate your experiences upon returning to ordinary reality. Whether you’re new to shamanic practices or a seasoned practitioner, this guide will provide valuable insights and resources for exploring the depths of your consciousness and connecting with the wisdom of the universe.

Types of Shamanic Journeying

There are several types of shamanic journeying that one can explore on their spiritual path. The most traditional method involves drumming, where the shaman beats a steady rhythm to induce an altered state of consciousness. Similarly, singing and chanting can also create a trance-like state for journeying. Dancing can be another way to enter the spirit world, as well as using visionary plants under the guidance of an experienced shaman. It’s important to note that safety precautions should always be taken when working with plant medicines. Each type of journeying has its own unique benefits and challenges, so it’s important to find what resonates with you. For more information on shamanic journeying, check out the Benefits of Shamanic Journeying guide.

Traditional Drumming

Traditional drumming is one of the most common methods used in shamanic journeying. The sound of the drum is believed to help alter brainwave states, which allows the journeyer to enter into a trance state. This trance state is a key component of shamanic journeying as it allows the journeyer to access the spirit world and communicate with their spirit guides.

During traditional drumming, the drummer uses a specific rhythm that is intended to induce a hypnotic state in the listener. The listener will focus on the sound of the drum, typically closed eyes, and allow themselves to be carried away by the sound.

Traditional drumming is often done in a group setting, where a shaman or experienced drummer will lead the group in the drumming session. This helps to create a stronger sense of community and support for the journeyer. However, traditional drumming can also be done individually.

To begin a traditional drumming session, it is important to create a sacred space and set intentions for the journey. It’s crucial to focus on what you hope to gain from the journey, whether it’s for self-discovery or healing. Once the intentions are set, begin the drumming session.

Drumming sessions can vary in length, but typically last around 30 minutes to an hour. During this time, the journeyer will travel to the spirit world, meet their spirit guides, and receive messages. When the drumming session ends, it’s important to take time to ground yourself before returning to ordinary reality.

Traditional drumming is an effective and powerful way to access the spirit world and receive messages from the divine. It’s important to remember to trust the process and be open to whatever messages come through during the journey. With practice, traditional drumming can become an incredibly insightful tool for personal growth and self-discovery.

For more tips on shamanic journeying, including safe practices and overcoming challenges, check out our article on shamanic journey tips.

Singing and Chanting

Strong spiritual experiences can also be achieved through , which have been used as a form of shamanic journeying for centuries. The repetitive nature of singing and chanting can help induce a trance state and move the practitioner into a deeper level of consciousness. The vibrations created by the sound can also be felt throughout the body, creating a unique sensation of connection to the spiritual realm.

Different cultures have their own forms of shamanic singing and chanting, with some using words and others using syllables or sounds. The use of song can also help to call upon specific spirits or energies, inviting them to be a part of the journey.

One traditional form of shamanic chanting is the “icaro” of the Amazonian shamanic tradition. The icaro is a song that is believed to come from the spirit world itself, and is used to call upon the spirits for healing or guidance. The shaman may sing for themselves or for someone else during a healing ceremony.

In addition to using traditional songs and chants, practitioners may also experiment with creating their own unique sounds and songs. This can help to further personalize the experience and connect with one’s own inner voice and intuition.

It is worth noting that singing and chanting may not be ideal for everyone, especially those who struggle with vocal expression or have a history of trauma related to voice or singing. In such cases, other forms of shamanic journeying, such as drumming or breathwork, may be more appropriate.

Incorporating singing and chanting into one’s shamanic practice can be a powerful way to connect with the spiritual realm and access deeper states of consciousness. By experimenting with different forms of sound and song, one can discover unique pathways to personal growth and inner transformation.

Dancing

Dancing is a staple in many different cultures for celebrating and spiritual purposes, and for shamanic journeying it can be a powerful tool for reaching an altered state of consciousness. Dancing promotes a heightened sense of awareness and helps to shift focus away from the physical body, allowing the mind to enter a more meditative, trance-like state.

Shamanic dancing is not just about moving aimlessly to music, but about intentionally using movement to access spiritual realms. Specific types of dancing styles, such as ecstatic dance or trance-inducing movements like shaking and swaying, are often utilized to reach this heightened state of consciousness.

One way to incorporate dancing into a shamanic journey is to choose a specific rhythm or beat that resonates with you and move your body in a repetitive motion while focusing on your breathing. This rhythmic motion can help to induce a trance-like state, and can allow you to access your own inner shamanic journey.

Incorporating dancing into shamanic journeying can be done in a group or solo setting. It can be helpful to set an intention for the dance, such as seeking guidance from spirit guides or asking for clarity on a particular issue in your life.

It is important to keep in mind that like all forms of shamanic journeying, dancing can bring up difficult or intense emotions. Remember to trust the journey and allow whatever comes up to be processed without judgement. Grounding techniques and self-care after the journey can also be helpful in integrating the experience.

Dancing can be a transformative addition to shamanic journeying, providing a unique way to enter an altered state of consciousness and access spiritual realms.

Visionary Plants

Visionary plants have been used by shamanic practitioners for centuries for their powerful effects on the mind, body, and spirit. These plants can induce altered states of consciousness that allow the individual to connect with the spirit world, receive visions, and receive guidance from spirit guides.

Types of Visionary Plants

There are numerous plants that are considered visionary or entheogenic, meaning that they can induce mystical or spiritual experiences. Here are some of the most commonly used plants in shamanic journeying:

Plant	Origin	Effects
Ayahuasca	South America	Intense visions, emotional and physical purging
Psilocybin Mushrooms	Global	Visions, euphoria, altered perception of time and space
San Pedro Cactus	South America	Visions, physical and emotional healing
Peyote	North America	Visions, emotional healing, spiritual insight
Iboga	Africa	Visions, physical and emotional healing, addiction relief

Precautions

While visionary plants can be powerful tools for spiritual growth and healing, they should be used with caution and under the guidance of an experienced practitioner. It is important to research the plant and its effects thoroughly before deciding to partake, and to ensure that the plant is legal in your country or state.

Additionally, it is important to prepare yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally before embarking on a journey with a visionary plant. This includes setting intentions, creating a safe and comfortable space, and having a trusted guide or sitter with you in case of any difficulties.

Visionary plants can be a valuable tool for those looking to explore their spiritual path and connect with the spirit world. When used safely and respectfully, they can provide profound insights and healing experiences. Remember to always approach these plants with reverence and respect, and to take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and transformative journey.

Tools for Shamanic Journeying

One of the important aspects of shamanic journeying is the use of tools to help access the spirit world. The most common shamanic tool is the drum, which is used to help shift the brainwave states and induce trance for the journey. Other tools include rattles and shakers, which can also assist in altering consciousness. Additionally, crystals and stones, such as quartz or amethyst, can be used for energetic support during the journey. Feathers and smudging with sage or palo santo can be helpful for clearing the energetic space, while creating a sacred space with intention and setting up an altar can enhance the overall experience. While these tools are helpful, it is important to remember that the journey is ultimately an internal experience guided by the practitioner’s intent and connection with their spirit guides.

Drums

Drums are one of the most commonly used tools in shamanic journeying. The powerful and rhythmic beats of the drums help to induce an altered state of consciousness that allows one to enter the spiritual realm. The sound of the drums can also summon and communicate with spirits, ancestors, and spirit animals.

During a shamanic journey, the drum provides a steady beat that guides the traveler into the spiritual realm. It is essential to choose a drum that speaks to you with its sound and vibration – one that you feel connected to and can use comfortably. It’s important to ensure that the drumming is safe, as it can sometimes lead to overwhelming experiences.

Drumming can open the doorway to knowledge, healing and self-discovery. A powerful beat can take the traveler on a journey that leads to a deeper understanding of one’s self. By slowing down or speeding up the beat, the drummer can help shift the traveler’s focus, helping to explore different aspects of consciousness.

The drum is an essential part of shamanic journeying, the vibration of the drum energizes the traveler, it helps them to go deeper. In some traditions, drums are thought to be a living entity, and as such, they are considered sacred objects. An experienced drummer knows how to use the drum to enter different consciousness states, alter brainwave states and connect with spirits.

When journeying with a drum, it can be helpful to set an intention before starting the journey. This gives a purpose to the journey and provides a focus. It can also be helpful to try out different rhythms and beats, experimenting with the sound to open new pathways for exploration.

The drum is a powerful tool for shamanic journeying, allowing the traveler to enter the spiritual realm and connect with spirits. It is important to choose a drum that feels right for you and to use it with respect and reverence. With the help of the drum, one can experience profound spiritual growth, learning, and healing.

Rattles and Shakers

are another important tool for shamanic journeying. They are used to create a rhythmic sound, which can help the shaman journey into a trance-like state. Rattles and shakers can also be used to call in specific spirits or energies.

The sound of rattles and shakers can be very powerful and can help to move energy in the body. The use of these tools can also help to connect with the physical world, as they create a tangible vibration and a physical sensation in the body.

Different shakers and rattles can be made from a variety of materials, including gourds, seeds, and animal parts. Some shakers are also decorated with feathers, stones, or beads to add to their beauty and symbolism.

It is important to choose a rattle or shaker that resonates with you energetically. This can be done by holding different options and feeling their vibration in your body, or by choosing one based on its symbolism or connection to a particular animal spirit.

If you are new to shamanic journeying, a rattle or shaker can be a great starting point. It is important to use it intentionally and with purpose, as they are powerful tools that should be respected. Incorporating the use of rattles and shakers into your practice can deepen your connection to the spirit world and add another layer of richness to your journey experience.

For more information on shamanic journeying and how to incorporate different tools and techniques into your practice, check out our guide on shamanic journeying for self-discovery.

Crystals and Stones

Crystals and stones have been used in various spiritual practices for ages, and shamanic journeying is no exception. Certain crystals and stones are believed to have unique properties that can assist us in connecting with the spiritual realm and amplifying our intentions. Here are a few options to consider:

Crystal/Stone	Properties
Amethyst	Provides spiritual protection and helps with intuition and clarity of thought.
Clear Quartz	Amplifies energy and intention, enhances clarity and focus, and promotes healing.
Black Tourmaline	Protects against negative energy and assists with grounding and centering.
Kyanite	Facilitates communication with spirit guides and assists with dream recall and interpretation.
Lapis Lazuli	Helps to access spiritual information and enhances intuition, clarity, and creativity.

These stones can be carried with you in a medicine bag, placed on an altar or around your sacred space during your journey, or even held in your hand during the journey. The use of crystals and stones can enhance your overall experience, but it’s important to note that they should not be relied upon solely and should be used in conjunction with other tools and practices for shamanic journeying.

If you’re interested in learning more about crystals and stones, consider doing some research or seeking guidance from a knowledgeable practitioner. You may also want to experiment with different stones to see which resonate best with you and your specific intentions for your journey.

If you’re ready to journey with your chosen tools and techniques, be sure to read about common shamanic journeying challenges and how to overcome them, and learn more about the role of music in shamanic journeying here. And if you’re curious about how to communicate with animal spirits during your journey, check out our guide here.

Feathers and Smudging

Using feathers and smudging during shamanic journeying can help create a sacred space and connect the physical and spiritual world. Feathers have been considered sacred by many indigenous cultures as they are believed to possess the energy and power of birds. The feathers are used to fan the smoke during smudging ceremonies, helping to disperse the smoke and its healing properties throughout the space and within the individual.

Smudging is the burning of herbs, such as sage or cedar, to clear negative energy and promote positive energy. The smoke from the burning herbs is fanned on the individual and throughout the space using a feather. The ritual of smudging is believed to have healing properties, aiding in mental, emotional, and physical wellness.

When using feathers and smudging during shamanic journeying, it is important to approach the practice with respect and intention. Before beginning the journey, sage or other herbs can be burned to clear the space and set a protective boundary. As the journey begins, the feather can be used to fan the smoke, promoting a sense of calm and focus.

It is important to note that while feathers and smudging can be powerful tools in shamanic journeying, they are not necessary for a successful journey. Each individual should approach their journey with their own personal beliefs and intentions.

Preparing for Your Journey

Preparing for a shamanic journey is a crucial step that can greatly enhance your experience. Firstly, setting up a sacred space is key. This includes lighting candles, burning incense, and adding any sacred objects that resonate with you. Secondly, setting intentions is important as it helps to focus your energy and guide the journey towards a specific goal. Writing down your intentions before starting the journey can also be helpful. Lastly, incorporating breathwork and meditation can help to quiet the mind and open yourself up to the journey ahead. Taking deep, intentional breaths while visualizing a peaceful scene can help to calm any nerves and prepare yourself for the journey. Remember, the goal of shamanic journeying is to connect with the spiritual world, so approach it with an open heart and mind.

Creating a Sacred Space

Creating a Sacred Space is essential for Shamanic Journeying. It is an intentional act of setting the stage for your journey, a way of showing respect for the Spirit World. You want to choose a space where you can be uninterrupted and feel safe for the duration of your journey. The ideal space is one where you can sit upright on a cushion or on a blanket, and it should be free of any clutter.

Some people like to decorate their Sacred Space with items that help them feel connected to the Spirit World. This can include special crystals, feathers, or pictures of spiritually significant people. The purpose of decorating is to create a visual representation of your intention for journeying.

There are different ways of creating a Sacred Space, but one way is to create an altar. An altar is a place where you can put the items that you want to work with during your journey. This can include candles, incense, and sacred statues. You can also use the altar space to hold any items that help you connect with your intention for journeying.

Whatever method you choose, the most important thing is that you feel comfortable and safe in your Sacred Space. You want to create an environment that is conducive to journeying, an experience that requires concentration and openness. By creating a Sacred Space, you are signaling to the Spirit World that you are ready to receive their guidance, and you are honoring their presence in your life.

Setting Intentions

Setting intentions is an important step in preparing for a shamanic journey. It involves focusing your mind and directing your energy towards a specific goal, desire, or intention for the journey. The intention you set can relate to any area of your life that you feel called to explore in the spirit world, such as gaining clarity on a particular situation, releasing old patterns or traumas, or seeking guidance and support from your spirit guides.

To set your intention, start by taking a few deep breaths and grounding yourself in the present moment. Clear your mind of any distractions or worries, and allow your intuition to guide you towards a specific intention that resonates with you. You can write your intention down on a piece of paper, speak it out loud, or visualize it in your mind’s eye.

It’s important to frame your intention in a positive and empowering way, rather than focusing on what you don’t want. For example, instead of setting an intention to “stop feeling anxious,” reframe it as “I intend to feel calm and centered.” This helps to shift your energy towards the outcome you desire, rather than getting stuck in a negative cycle.

Remember that your intention is a personal and sacred aspect of your journey, so honor it with reverence and respect. You can even create a symbolic object or offering to represent your intention, such as a crystal or a candle, and bring it with you on your journey.

Setting intentions helps to focus your energy and guide your experience in the spirit world. By setting a clear and positive intention, you open yourself up to receive guidance, healing, and transformation from your spirit guides. Trust that your intention will guide you towards the insights and revelations that you seek, and allow yourself to be open to the journey that unfolds.

Breathwork and Meditation

When preparing for a shamanic journey, breathwork and meditation can be powerful tools to help calm the mind and deepen relaxation. Slow, deep breathing can help to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for relaxation and calming. Meditation can help to quiet the mind, increase spiritual connection, and cultivate a receptive state for receiving messages and guidance from the spirit world.

Before beginning a journey, take some time to sit in a comfortable position and focus on the breath. Breathe slowly and deeply, inhaling through the nose and exhaling through the mouth. Try to clear the mind of any distracting thoughts and focus on the present moment.

Meditation can be incorporated into the breathing practice by using a mantra or visualization as a focal point. This can help to deepen the state of relaxation and connect with the spiritual realm. Some practitioners may also find it helpful to use guided meditations specifically designed for shamanic journeying.

The combination of breathwork and meditation can be an effective way to prepare for a shamanic journey and access the deeper levels of the subconscious mind. By cultivating a receptive state of mind, we can more easily connect with the spirit world and gain insight and guidance for our lives.

The Journey Itself

During the climax of a shamanic journey, you will enter the Spirit World through a portal or gateway that you have located. Your journey may start out with a simple visualization technique or a meditation practice, but eventually, you will enter an altered state of consciousness where you can connect with your spirit guides and receive insight and guidance. The journey itself can be intense and disorienting, so it is important to stay grounded and centered throughout the experience. You may see and hear things that seem surreal or impossible, but remember that these are messages from the spirit realm and should be interpreted accordingly. Stay open and receptive to receiving these messages, and trust that they will guide you towards greater understanding and growth.

Entering the Spirit World

Entering the Spirit World is the most important step in a shamanic journey. It involves accessing a state of consciousness where you can transcend the limitations of the physical world and enter the realm of the spirits. This requires deep concentration and the ability to let go of your ego and any preconceived notions.

To enter the Spirit World, you may begin by focusing on your breath and relaxing your body. Some people find it helpful to use drumming or other forms of rhythmic sound to alter their brainwaves and achieve a trance state. You may also visualize a portal or gateway that you can step through to enter the world of the spirits.

Once you have entered this realm, it is important to stay aware of your surroundings and maintain a sense of respect. You may encounter spirit animals, deities, or other entities who can impart wisdom or guidance. It is important not to force any interactions, but rather to remain open to whatever unfolds.

As you journey deeper into the Spirit World, you may receive messages or visions that offer insight into your own life or the world at large. It is important to remain centered and grounded, and to ask for clarity if anything is unclear.

Finally, when you are ready to return to ordinary reality, you can do so by retracing your steps and thanking any spirits or entities who may have assisted you. It is important to ground yourself and integrate any lessons or insights that you have gained before returning fully to your physical body.

Meeting Your Spirit Guides

Meeting Your Spirit Guides during a shamanic journey can be an incredibly transformative experience. Your Spirit Guides are there to offer guidance, support, and wisdom on your journey, and can help you navigate the Spirit World with ease. Here are some important things to keep in mind as you prepare to meet your Spirit Guides:

• Be Open to Receiving – Remember that your Spirit Guides are there to help you, but it’s up to you to be open to receiving their messages. Approach the meeting with an open mind and heart, and trust that the guidance you receive is for your highest good.
• Trust Your Intuition – Your Spirit Guides may communicate with you in different ways, such as through symbols, images, or feelings. Trust your intuition and pay attention to any signs or sensations that come up during the meeting.
• Set Clear Intentions – Before you begin your journey, it’s important to set clear intentions for what you hope to gain from meeting your Spirit Guides. This can help you focus your energy and receive guidance that is specifically aligned with your personal growth and healing.
• Be Respectful – When meeting your Spirit Guides, it’s important to approach the encounter with respect and reverence. Remember that these guides are powerful spiritual beings, and should be treated accordingly.
• Ask Questions – Don’t be afraid to ask your Spirit Guides questions! They are there to guide and support you, and can often provide valuable insights and perspectives that you may not have considered before.

Remember that meeting your Spirit Guides is a deeply personal experience, and your encounter may differ from others. Trust in your own journey and the guidance that your Spirit Guides offer, and know that their wisdom and support is available to you whenever you need it.

Receiving Messages

As you journey through the shamanic realm, it’s common to receive messages from your spirit guides. These may come in the form of symbols, images, or even direct communication. It’s important to approach these messages with an open mind and heart, accepting whatever comes through without judgment or preconceived notions.

One technique for receiving messages is to simply ask your spirit guides for guidance on a specific question or situation. Take a few deep breaths, then visualize yourself standing before your spirit guide and posing your query. Be receptive to any information that comes through, even if it’s not what you expected or wanted to hear.

Another approach is to pay attention to the symbols and images that arise during your journey. Take note of any recurring themes or motifs, and consider what they might represent. For example, if you keep seeing butterflies or other winged creatures, this could be a sign of transformation or spiritual growth.

In addition to visual cues, pay attention to any sensory impressions you receive during your journey. You may hear voices, smell specific scents, or even feel physical sensations such as heat or cold. These can all be valuable clues as to what your guides are trying to communicate.

Remember that the messages you receive during a shamanic journey may not always be immediately clear or make sense in the moment. It can be helpful to jot down any impressions in a journal immediately after your journey, allowing you to revisit and reflect on them later. With time and practice, you may find that you become more attuned to the messages of your spirit guides, and better able to discern their meaning.

Returning to Ordinary Reality

After completing a shamanic journey, it is important to come back to the physical world and ground yourself. There are various grounding techniques that you can use to assist with this. One option is to focus on your breath and take deep breaths in and out. Another is to imagine roots growing out of your feet and sinking deep into the earth. You can also physically touch the ground or take a walk in nature to help you feel more connected to the earth. It is important to take time to reflect on the messages and experiences you received during your journey. Keeping a journal can assist with integrating these experiences into your daily life. Remember to be gentle with yourself throughout this process, and give yourself time to fully return to ordinary reality.

Grounding Techniques

Grounding techniques are an essential step in returning from a shamanic journey and reconnecting with the present moment and physical body. These techniques help to ensure a smooth transition back into ordinary reality and prevent any feelings of disorientation or detachment.

Here are some effective grounding techniques that you can use:

1. Connect with your senses: Focus on what you can see, hear, feel, smell, and taste around you. This helps to anchor you in the present moment and reconnects you with the physical world.

2. Grounding exercises: Engage in some simple exercises that help to root you in the earth, such as standing barefoot on the ground or doing some gentle stretches.

3. Visualization: Imagine yourself firmly rooted to the ground, like a strong tree or a massive boulder. Visualize your connection to the earth and the stability it provides.

4. Breathwork: Take some deep, slow breaths in and out, focusing all your attention on the rise and fall of your chest. This helps to calm the mind and bring you back to the present moment.

5. Use grounding objects: Hold objects that help to ground you, such as a crystal or a stone that you find comforting.

It’s essential to note that everyone has different ways of grounding, so experiment with different techniques and find what works best for you. Taking time to ground yourself after a shamanic journey can be a powerful practice and helps to integrate any insights or revelations into your daily life.

Journaling and Integration

Journaling and integration are important components of any shamanic journey. After returning to ordinary reality, it’s essential to take some time and reflect on the experience. Journaling is a commonly used tool for this purpose, as it allows you to create a record of your journey and explore it in more depth.

When journaling about your journey, be sure to include any insights, messages, or guidance you received from your spirit guides. These messages can often be cryptic or symbolic, so take the time to decipher their meaning. Identify any areas of your life that may need attention or healing based on these insights.

Integration is the process of taking the lessons learned during your journey and applying them to your everyday life. It’s important to take the time to integrate these lessons to achieve lasting transformation. Some ways to integrate include practicing self-care, taking action on any insights or guidance received, and incorporating the lessons learned into your spiritual practice.

To help with both journaling and integration, it’s a good idea to create a special space dedicated to your shamanic practice. This space can be as big or small as you want and should be filled with items that are meaningful to you, such as crystals, feathers, or pictures. By having a dedicated space, you create a sense of sacredness and intentionality, which can help you connect more deeply with the spirit world.

Journaling and integration are crucial parts of any shamanic journey. By taking the time to reflect on your experience, decode any messages received, and integrate the lessons learned, you can achieve lasting transformation and growth. Creating a sacred space dedicated to your practice can also enhance your connection to the spirit world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the practice of shamanic journeying is a deeply transformative and powerful tool for personal growth and spiritual development. By exploring different forms of shamanic journeying, such as traditional drumming, singing and chanting, dancing, and visionary plants, we can better connect with the spirit world and receive guidance from our ancestors and spirit guides.

Using tools for shamanic journeying such as drums, rattles and shakers, crystals and stones, and feathers and smudging, we can create a sacred space that supports our journeying practice. It’s important to remember the importance of preparing for our journey by creating a sacred space, setting intentions, and engaging in breathwork and meditation.

During the journey itself, we may experience a range of sensations and perceptions, including entering the spirit world, meeting our spirit guides, and receiving messages. It’s important to approach each journey with an open mind and heart, allowing ourselves to fully receive the guidance and insights that the spirit world has to offer.

As we return to ordinary reality, it’s important to practice grounding techniques, such as deep breathing, movement, or meditation. We may also find it helpful to engage in journaling and integration practices, reflecting on our journey and integrating the insights we have received.

By incorporating shamanic journeying into our spiritual practice, we can deepen our connection with the natural world and with ourselves, gaining greater clarity and insight into our purpose and path in life. With dedication and practice, shamanic journeying can help us cultivate greater healing, awareness, and personal growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does shamanic journeying differ from regular meditation?

Shamanic journeying involves intentionally accessing altered states of consciousness to make contact with spirit guides and receive messages, while traditional meditation focuses on quieting the mind and achieving mindfulness.

What types of drums are used for shamanic journeying?

Traditionally, shamanic drums are made with a wooden frame and a stretched animal hide, such as elk, deer, or horse.

What is the purpose of smudging in shamanic journeying?

Smudging is a purification ritual that involves burning herbs or resins, such as sage or palo santo, to clear negative energy and create a sacred space for journeying.

Can I journey without a shamanic guide?

While it is possible to journey on your own, it is recommended to work with a trained shamanic practitioner, at least initially, to ensure safety and support during the journeying process.

What is the role of intention in shamanic journeying?

Setting a clear intention before beginning a journey helps to focus the mind and create a stronger connection with the spirit world.

Can I journey while under the influence of drugs or alcohol?

No, it is not recommended to journey under the influence of drugs or alcohol, as it can interfere with the ability to connect with spirit guides and receive clear messages.

What is the difference between a spirit animal and a power animal?

A spirit animal is a guide that comes to us in a journey or dream, while a power animal is a guide or ally that stays with us in waking life as well.

What is the purpose of grounding after a journey?

Grounding helps to anchor the energy and wisdom received during the journey into the physical body and everyday life.

What are the benefits of regular shamanic journeying practice?

Regular journeying practice can lead to greater spiritual growth, expanded consciousness, increased intuition, and a deeper connection with the world around us.

Is shamanic journeying a religious practice?

Shamanic journeying is a spiritual practice that stems from indigenous cultures around the world, but it is not tied to any specific religion or belief system.

References

• Exploring Shamanic Journeying: Repetitive Drumming with …