Exploring the Lower World in Shamanic Journeying

Embarking on a shamanic journey can be a transformative experience that allows you to explore different realms of consciousness and connect with spiritual guides. In this article, we will focus on the lower world, a place where you can encounter power animals, confront shadow aspects, and seek guidance and healing. We will provide a step-by-step guide that will help you prepare for your journey, enter the lower world, and return to ordinary reality. Along the way, we will discuss the benefits of exploring the lower world, common challenges and concerns, and share unique insights to help you navigate this exciting and profound experience. So grab a drum or rattle, find a comfortable place to sit or lie down, and let’s embark on an adventure together.

What is shamanic journeying?

Shamanic journeying is a spiritual practice that involves traveling to different realms of consciousness to gain insight, healing, and guidance from the unseen world. The journey itself is typically facilitated by the rhythmic beating of a drum or rattle, which induces a trance-like state in the journeyer. Once in this state, the journeyer can access a variety of realms, including the lower world, upper world, and middle world, each of which has its own unique qualities and inhabitants. Shamanic journeying can be a powerful tool for personal growth, inner exploration, and spiritual connection. To learn more about how to prepare for your own shamanic journey and the common challenges you may encounter along the way, check out these tips for getting started and our frequently asked questions guide.

What is the lower world?

The lower world is a spiritual realm that is accessed during shamanic journeying. Shamans believe that the lower world is the counterpart to the physical world, and that it contains valuable resources, wisdom, and insight that can help individuals in their lives. The lower world is often described as an underground realm, a labyrinthian cave system, or a dense forest.

A main characteristic of the lower world is its association with the subconscious and the unconscious mind. It holds the hidden parts of our psyche, our deepest fears and desires, and our ancestral memories. The lower world is also home to spirit animals and guides who are ready to share their wisdom, guidance, and healing power with those who enter this realm.

In the lower world, time and space operate differently, allowing for a journeyer to experience a compressed sense of time, where minutes can feel like hours or even days. The lower world can be a place of both challenge and comfort, depending on the experiences and lessons you encounter.

To enter the lower world during a shamanic journey, you must first enter an altered state of consciousness through the use of drumming or rattling. This allows you to connect with your subconscious mind and the spirits of the lower world.

Some important points to keep in mind about the lower world include:

The lower world is a spiritual realm.	It is believed to contain valuable resources, wisdom, and insight.
It is associated with the subconscious and unconscious mind.	It holds hidden parts of our psyche, deepest fears and desires, and ancestral memories.
The lower world can be both challenging and comforting.	Your experiences and lessons in the lower world will depend on your state of mind and journey intentions.
Drumming and rattling are used to enter the lower world.	These tools allow you to connect with your subconscious mind and the spirits of the lower world.

If you are interested in learning more about shamanic journeying and the different stages of the journey, you can check out our article on shamanic journey stages. For more information on setting intentions for your journey, take a look at our article on shamanic intentions and understanding spirit guides in shamanic journeying. If you’re new to shamanic journeying, our article on shamanic journeying FAQs can provide helpful tips and answers to common questions. And if you’re interested in using shamanic journeying for personal growth, you can read our article on shamanic journeying for personal growth.

Why explore the lower world?

Exploring the lower world in shamanic journeying can offer unique opportunities for personal growth and spiritual development. The lower world is a realm of the subconscious, where we can connect with our deeper selves, our spirit, and our ancestral wisdom. By embarking on a journey to the lower world, we can gain insights into our lives and receive guidance from spiritual allies and power animals.

One reason to explore the lower world is to gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our life path. We may find that we encounter familiar landscapes or beings that hold significant personal meaning. This can be a powerful way to connect with our inner selves and gain clarity about our life’s purpose and direction. Additionally, our spiritual guides and power animals may offer us guidance or insights on specific challenges or opportunities we are facing in our lives.

Another reason to explore the lower world is to work on emotional and spiritual healing. We may encounter aspects of ourselves that we have repressed or neglected, and working with them in this realm can be transformative. Additionally, we may receive healing energy from our allies or be given specific guidance on how to overcome emotional and spiritual blockages.

Finally, exploring the lower world can foster a deeper connection to spirit and the natural world. We may encounter beings that are connected to the land or nature, giving us a greater appreciation and respect for the world around us. This can lead to a greater sense of interconnectedness and help us feel more grounded and connected to the earth and all its inhabitants.

Exploring the lower world can offer profound experiences and opportunities for growth and healing. However, as with any spiritual practice, there may be common challenges and concerns to keep in mind. To learn more about these potential challenges, you may wish to read our article on common challenges in shamanic journeying.

Preparing for Your Journey

Before embarking on a shamanic journey to the lower world, it’s important to prepare yourself both physically and mentally. Setting your intention is a crucial first step, as it helps you focus your mind and energy on the purpose of your journey. You may want to ask a specific question or seek guidance on a particular issue. Creating a sacred space can also help you set the tone for your journey and create a safe and comfortable environment. This can include lighting candles, burning sage or palo santo, or playing soothing music. Finally, clearing your energy is essential for entering the lower world with a clean slate. This can involve techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or visualization. By taking the time to prepare yourself in these ways, you’ll be better equipped to experience the full benefits of shamanic journeying.

Setting your intention

One crucial aspect of shamanic journeying is setting your intention before stepping into the lower world. This helps you to focus your mind on what you hope to achieve and create a positive and meaningful experience. Here are some steps to follow when setting your intention:

Step	Action
Step 1	Take a few deep breaths and quiet your mind
Step 2	Ask yourself what you want to gain from the journey
Step 3	Write down your intention using affirmative language and in the present tense
Step 4	Visualize your intention as if it has already happened
Step 5	Repeat your intention out loud or silently

Setting a clear and specific intention can help you to connect more deeply with the lower world and the powerful spiritual guides within it. It can also help you to navigate any challenges or difficulties that may arise during your journey. For example, if you are seeking guidance on a specific issue, you might set an intention such as “I am open to receiving clear and helpful guidance on [insert issue]”. Alternatively, if you are seeking healing, you might set an intention such as “I am open to receiving deep emotional and spiritual healing for my [insert issue]”.

It’s important to remember that setting your intention is a personal and unique process, and there is no one “right” way to do it. However, taking the time to connect with your intention before embarking on your shamanic journey can help you to stay focused and aligned with your goals.

It’s also important to note that setting your intention is just one part of the preparation process for shamanic journeying. Other important steps include creating a sacred space, clearing your energy, and grounding yourself. If you’re interested in learning more about these preparation steps and common challenges in shamanic journeying, check out our article on common challenges and concerns.

Creating a sacred space

To journey into the lower world, it’s important to create a sacred space that will help you to feel protected and connected to the spiritual realm. This space should be quiet, free from distractions, and conducive to relaxation and meditation. You can create your own sacred space at home or outdoors, depending on your preferences and needs.

First, choose a location that feels safe and comfortable to you. This might be a corner of your bedroom, a peaceful garden, or a quiet park. Next, set up some items that will help you to create a sacred atmosphere. Consider using candles, incense, crystals, or other objects that hold personal significance for you. Arrange them in a thoughtful way that reflects your intention for the journey.

You might also want to include some nature-based elements in your sacred space. This could include fresh flowers, plants, or stones that you collect on your walks. These natural items can help you to connect with the elemental energies of the lower world and bring a sense of grounding to your journey.

Once you have set up your space, take some time to prepare your body and mind for the journey. Light some candles or incense, sit comfortably, and take some deep breaths to relax and center yourself. You might want to say a prayer or set an intention for your journey, asking for protection and guidance from your spiritual guides.

Creating a sacred space is an important part of shamanic journeying, as it helps to create a container of safety and support. By taking the time to set up a dedicated space, you signal to yourself and the spiritual realms that you are ready to embark on your journey and receive the wisdom and healing it holds. So, take your time and allow yourself to feel nurtured and protected in this space before beginning your journey into the lower world.

Clearing your energy

Clearing your energy is an important step before embarking on a shamanic journey to the lower world. When we clean our energy, we release any negative thoughts, emotions, or vibrations that can interfere with our journey, allowing us to have a deeper and more meaningful experience.

There are various techniques you can use to clear your energy. One option is to take a cleansing bath with sea salt, which is known for its purifying properties. You can also use white sage or palo santo to smudge your body and space, removing any negative energies.

Breathwork is another powerful technique that can help clear your energy. By focusing on your breath and inhaling deeply, you invite fresh and positive energy into your body. As you exhale, release any negative energy that you are holding onto. Repeat this process several times until you feel lighter and more centered.

Visualization is also an effective tool for clearing your energy. Imagine a cleansing white light flowing through your body, washing away any negative energy and leaving you feeling refreshed. Alternatively, you can visualize yourself standing under a waterfall of light or surrounded by a bubble of protection.

Whatever technique you choose, the goal is to release any negative energies that can prevent you from having an insightful journey. By clearing your energy, you will create a more open and receptive space for spiritual guidance and healing.

Entering the Lower World

As you prepare to enter the lower world in shamanic journeying, it is important to set your intention and create a sacred space. You will then begin the shamanic journey, which involves entering a state of consciousness where you can access the lower world. This can be done through drumming, rattling, or other forms of sound. As you journey, you may meet your spiritual guide who will help you navigate the lower world and offer guidance and wisdom. It is essential to maintain a sense of inner peace and openness to any experiences that may come your way. Exploring the lower world can be a powerful and transformative experience, allowing you to connect with your deepest self and the spiritual realm beyond.

The shamanic journey

One of the core practices in shamanic journeying is the shamanic journey itself. It involves entering an altered state of consciousness through various techniques such as drumming, rattling, or chanting. The goal of the shamanic journey is to travel to non-ordinary reality where you can connect with spiritual guides and explore different realms of existence.

To begin a shamanic journey, it is important to find a quiet and comfortable place where you will not be disturbed. Many practitioners choose to lie down or sit in a comfortable position with their eyes closed. Once you are settled, you can begin to focus on your breath and set your intention for the journey.

Shamans often use monotonous drumming or rattling to help induce an altered state of consciousness. As you listen to the rhythm of the drum or rattle, you can allow yourself to be carried away by the sound. As you journey, you may encounter different beings or symbols that have personal significance. It is important to maintain a sense of curiosity and openness as you explore the non-ordinary realm.

The length of a shamanic journey can vary depending on the individual. Some may experience a journey that lasts only a few minutes, while others may journey for an hour or even longer. It is important to allow enough time to fully explore the journey space and receive any guidance or insights that may come through.

At the end of the journey, you can use cues such as a change in the drumming rhythm or a designated time to signal the end of the journey. It is important to take some time to reflect on your experiences during the journey and to integrate any insights or healing that may have occurred.

The shamanic journey is a powerful tool for personal growth and spiritual exploration. With practice and intention, it can open up new realms of understanding and connection with spirit. Whether you journey to find healing, guidance, or simply to connect with the divine, the shamanic journey can be a transformative experience.

Meeting your spiritual guide

Meeting your spiritual guide is a key aspect of shamanic journeying. Your spiritual guide can be an animal, human, or other entity who helps you navigate the lower world and gain deeper insight into yourself and your journey. To meet your spiritual guide, you must first set your intention and enter a deep state of relaxation through drumming or other rhythmic sounds.

As you journey, visualize yourself descending into the lower world through a tunnel or other portal. Once you reach the bottom, look for a guide who feels familiar or intuitive. This may be an animal that you feel drawn to or a humanoid figure that resonates with you.

Your spiritual guide may offer you advice, protection, or assistance in exploring the lower world. Ask them questions and listen for their answers, which may come in the form of images, words, or emotions. Remember to approach your guide with respect and humility, and thank them for their guidance.

It’s important to remember that your spiritual guide is a reflection of your own inner wisdom and intuition. Trust your instincts and allow yourself to surrender to the journey, even if it feels uncomfortable or unfamiliar. Over time, you may develop a deeper relationship with your guide and receive even greater insights and guidance.

Exploring the lower world

Exploring the lower world is an amazing experience in shamanic journeying that can bring profound insights and understanding. Below are some tips for exploring the lower world:

Start with gratitude: Before beginning your exploration, take a moment to give thanks and express gratitude to your spiritual guide for guiding you on this journey.

Be open-minded: Try to approach your experience with an open mind and let go of any expectations or preconceived notions you may have had.

Use all your senses: Pay attention to what you see, hear, smell, taste, and feel in the lower world. Take in your surroundings and try to immerse yourself in the experience.

Explore your surroundings: Take the time to explore the lower world and see what it has to offer. Look for any significant landmarks or symbols that may offer guidance or insight.

Connect with nature: Many shamans believe that nature is the best teacher and guide. Look for animals, trees, and other natural elements that may have a message for you.

Trust your intuition: Your spiritual guide may offer guidance, but ultimately you must trust your own instincts and intuition as you navigate the lower world.

Remember, the lower world is a safe space for exploration and growth. Don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things. Trust that your spiritual guide will keep you protected and supported throughout your journey. With an open heart and mind, you can discover a wealth of insights and understanding in the lower world.

Experiences in the Lower World

Exploring the lower world in shamanic journeying can lead to a variety of profound experiences. You may encounter power animals, which are spiritual entities that serve as guides and protectors. Alternatively, you may confront shadow aspects of yourself or others, facing the darker parts of your psyche that you have repressed or ignored. Through journeying, you can also seek guidance and healing, receiving insight and wisdom from your spiritual guides to overcome personal challenges and find greater meaning in your life. However, navigating the lower world can also be challenging, with lost or confusing experiences and fears of the unknown. By staying grounded and safe, you can reap the benefits of shamanic journeying while minimizing potential risks.

Encountering power animals

As you journey through the lower world, you may encounter power animals. These animal spirits can offer guidance, protection, and healing. Power animals are believed to hold unique qualities and characteristics that can assist you in your life.

Your power animal may appear in various forms and shapes such as a wolf, jaguar, eagle, or even a domestic animal like a horse or a dog. The animal that appears to you during the journey often holds a significant meaning that is unique to you.

When you encounter your power animal, it is important to approach it with reverence and respect, as it is a sacred being. Take your time to connect with it and ask it questions. Your power animal may offer you guidance or support in areas of your life where you need it most.

In order to establish a deeper connection with your power animal, it can be helpful to create a ceremony or ritual to honor it. You might consider creating a special altar or offering it gifts such as food or tobacco.

Building a relationship with your power animal can be incredibly transformative. It can offer a sense of companionship, courage, and support on your spiritual journey. Remember to always trust your instincts and honor your power animal as a sacred guide.

Confronting shadow aspects

Confronting shadow aspects is a crucial part of shamanic journeying in the lower world. It can be a challenging and sometimes scary experience, but it can also be incredibly healing and transformative.

One way to confront shadow aspects is to consciously call them into your journey. Begin by setting your intention to connect with any aspects of yourself that you may have suppressed or denied. These are the parts of yourself that you may consider negative or undesirable, such as anger, fear, or shame.

As you journey, pay attention to any images or sensations that arise. If you feel resistance or fear, acknowledge it and try to approach the experience with curiosity, rather than avoidance. Remember that in shamanic journeying, everything is a manifestation of spirit, and these shadow aspects are simply another aspect of your spiritual journey.

You may encounter symbolism or archetypes that represent your shadow aspects, such as a dark cave or a wild animal. Try to observe these images with detachment and ask your spiritual guide for guidance and protection.

Once you have identified your shadow aspects, you can work on integrating them back into your consciousness. This can involve consciously acknowledging and expressing these emotions in your daily life. By facing these aspects, you can release emotional blockages, gain a deeper understanding of yourself, and ultimately move towards greater wholeness and balance.

Here are some tips for confronting shadow aspects during your shamanic journey:

• Stay grounded: Remember to breathe deeply and stay connected to your body during the journey. This can help you stay present and avoid being overwhelmed by intense emotions.
• Ask for guidance: Your spiritual guide can offer insight and protection as you confront your shadow aspects. Trust that they have your best interests at heart.
• Journal your experience: Writing down your journey experience can help you process and integrate any emotions that arise.
• Be patient: Confronting shadow aspects can be a slow and gradual process. Be gentle with yourself and approach the experience with an open mind and heart.

By confronting your shadow aspects during shamanic journeying, you can gain a deeper understanding of yourself and access a greater sense of inner peace and wholeness. Remember that the journey may not always be easy, but the rewards are well worth the effort.

Seeking guidance and healing

Seeking guidance and healing is a significant aspect of exploring the lower world in shamanic journeying. It can help to gain a deeper understanding of oneself and receive spiritual guidance for the challenges faced in life. Here are some common experiences one may encounter when seeking guidance and healing in the lower world:

Experience	Description
Meeting a Wise Teacher	In the lower world, one may encounter a wise teacher who can offer guidance, support, and spiritual instruction. These teachers may appear in different forms, such as an animal, plant, or human.
Receiving a Message or Symbol	Spirits in the lower world may communicate through symbols or messages, which can provide insights into the challenges faced in life or offer guidance on the next steps to take. It’s important to pay attention to these messages and understand their meaning.
Healing from Trauma	Trauma from past experiences can be healed through shamanic journeying in the lower world. By connecting with one’s spiritual guides, one can access the deep healing energies that are available in this realm and bring about transformational change.
Identifying and Releasing Blockages	The lower world can help to identify emotional or spiritual blockages that are holding back one’s growth and development. Through shamanic journeying, one can release these blockages and move towards greater spiritual alignment.
Reconnecting with Inner Wisdom	Shamanic journeying in the lower world can help to connect with the inner wisdom and intuition that can sometimes be suppressed by the noise and distractions of everyday life. By accessing this inner wisdom, one can gain clarity on the choices and decisions that need to be made.

Seeking guidance and healing in the lower world can be a powerful tool for personal transformation and spiritual growth. It requires an open mind and willingness to trust in the guidance received from the spiritual realm. With practice and dedication, shamanic journeying can become a valuable tool for navigating life’s challenges and connecting with the deeper aspects of oneself.

Returning to Ordinary Reality

As you return to ordinary reality after your shamanic journey into the Lower World, it is important to acknowledge and honor the experiences you have had. Take some time to express gratitude for your spiritual guide and any power animals you may have encountered. Integration and reflection are also crucial at this stage. Consider journaling or meditating on the insights and messages you received during your journey. It can be beneficial to share your experiences with a trusted friend or spiritual mentor. Remember to stay grounded and present in your physical body as you

make the transition back to everyday life. Allow yourself time to fully integrate the healing and guidance you have received before rushing back into your daily routine.

Gratitude and closure

Gratitude

• Express gratitude to your spiritual guide, power animals, and the spirits of the lower world for their guidance, wisdom, and support during your journey.
• Thank them for any messages or insights that you have received.
• Remember that gratitude is an important aspect of any spiritual practice and helps to maintain a positive and appreciative attitude towards life.

Closure

• Tell your guide and power animals that you are ready to leave the lower world and return to ordinary reality.
• Thank them for their assistance and say goodbye.
• Visualize yourself returning up through the tunnel and emerging back into the upper world.
• Take a few deep breaths and feel yourself fully back in your body and in the present moment.

Grounding

• After your journey, take time to ground yourself by eating a light snack, walking barefoot on the earth, or drinking water.
• Write down any insights or messages you received during your journey in a journal to reflect on later.
• Allow yourself time to fully integrate the experience and its lessons into your daily life.

Remember that each journey is unique and personal. Expressing gratitude and allowing for closure help to honor the experience and bring it into a positive context.

Integration and reflection

Integration and reflection are essential aspects of the shamanic journeying process, as they allow you to bring back the insights and healing you received in the lower world and apply them to your daily life.

During integration, take time to sit with your experience and allow yourself to fully process any emotions or thoughts that arose during your journey. This can be done by journaling, meditating, or simply taking a quiet walk in nature.

Here are some questions to reflect on during integration:

Question	Reflection Prompt
What insights did I gain during my journey?	How can I apply these insights to my life?
What emotions came up during my journey?	How can I honor and integrate these emotions?
Did I receive any guidance or messages?	How can I incorporate this guidance into my life?
What themes or patterns emerged during my journey?	How can I use this information to create positive change in my life?

Reflection is an ongoing process, and it may take time to fully integrate the lessons and healing you received during your journey. Be patient with yourself and trust in the wisdom of the spiritual realm.

Incorporating a regular practice of journeying and reflection can lead to profound personal growth and understanding. By integrating your experiences, you can create a deeper connection to your spiritual self and live a more purposeful and authentic life.

Benefits of Exploring the Lower World

Exploring the lower world in shamanic journeying can offer a variety of benefits for those seeking spiritual connection and personal growth. Through encountering power animals, confronting shadow aspects, and seeking guidance and healing, individuals can gain unique insights and understanding about themselves and their place in the world. Exploring the lower world can lead to emotional and spiritual healing, as well as a deeper connection to spirit. It’s important to approach this type of journeying with intention and a willingness to face any challenges that may arise. By staying grounded and aware during the journey, individuals can safely reap the many rewards of exploring the lower world.

Insights and understanding

One of the key benefits of exploring the lower world in shamanic journeying is gaining insights and understanding about ourselves and the world around us. When we journey to the lower world, we are tapping into the deep well of our unconscious mind and connecting with the collective unconscious, which holds wisdom and knowledge beyond what we can access in our waking state.

Through the experiences we have in the lower world, we may receive insights about our personal issues, our relationships, and our life path. These insights can help us gain clarity and understanding about our current situation, and may provide guidance for moving forward.

In addition to personal insights, journeying to the lower world can also provide understanding about larger spiritual and universal concepts. We may gain a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of all living beings, the cycles of nature, and the mysteries of life and death. This understanding can lead to a greater sense of purpose and meaning in our lives.

It’s important to note that the insights and understanding gained during lower world journeys are not always immediate or obvious. Sometimes they come in the form of symbols or metaphors that need to be interpreted and unpacked over time. It’s also possible that insights may be uncomfortable or challenging, as we confront aspects of ourselves or our lives that we’ve been avoiding.

Gaining insights and understanding through shamanic journeying in the lower world can be a powerful tool for personal growth and spiritual development. It’s a way to access deeper parts of ourselves and the world around us, and gain clarity and guidance for navigating life’s challenges.

Emotional and spiritual healing

Exploring the lower world in shamanic journeying can offer profound emotional and spiritual healing. By accessing the lower world, we can connect with aspects of ourselves that need healing and gain insights and understanding that can help us move forward in our lives.

During a shamanic journey, we can experience emotional releases, where we let go of unprocessed emotions that have been stored in our body. This can be a cathartic experience, and can leave us feeling lighter and more free.

The lower world can also offer spiritual healing, as we connect with our spiritual guides and power animals. These spiritual beings can offer us guidance and support as we navigate through challenges in our lives. They can help us to gain a new perspective on our problems and offer us solutions that we may not have considered before.

Exploring the lower world can help us to connect with our inner wisdom, tapping into our intuition and accessing our higher selves. This can lead to a greater understanding of our purpose and a deeper sense of meaning in our lives.

The emotional and spiritual healing that can come from exploring the lower world in shamanic journeying can be transformative. By accessing our inner world and connecting with our spiritual guides and power animals, we can gain new insights and understanding that can help us to heal and grow.

Connection to spirit

Connecting to spirit is one of the most significant benefits of exploring the lower world in shamanic journeying. It allows us to tap into a higher power, receive guidance, and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. Here are some ways that connection to spirit is experienced in shamanic journeying:

Experience	Description
Spiritual Guides	Meeting a spiritual guide is a common experience in the lower world. These guides can take different forms, such as an animal, a human, or a mythical creature, and offer guidance, protection, and support on our spiritual journey.
Insightful Messages	During a shamanic journey, we can receive messages from our spiritual guides, power animals or plant allies. These messages might be in the form of symbols, images, or words, and can provide guidance, clarity, and understanding about our lives and situations we are facing.
Spiritual Wholeness	Shamanic journeying helps us to integrate all aspects of our being – physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual – and align them to our highest good. By connecting to spirit, we can experience a sense of wholeness, completeness, and harmony, which can help us in our daily lives.
Expanded Consciousness	Journeying to the lower world can help us expand our consciousness beyond the mundane world. It can allow us to access a higher level of awareness, access to higher knowledge, and transcend the limitations of our physical existence.

The connection to spirit can be a transformative experience, and it requires a deep level of trust and surrender to the unknown. It is important to approach it with an open heart and mind and trust that the guidance received is for our highest good. Through connecting to spirit, we can gain a deeper understanding of our purpose, direction, and path, and experience a sense of peace, healing, and fulfillment.

Common Challenges and Concerns

Embarking on a shamanic journey to explore the lower world can be a transformative experience, but it can also pose certain challenges and concerns. One of the most common fears people have is confronting their own shadow aspects and encountering difficult emotions. It is important to remember that this is a natural part of the healing process and that you can call on your spiritual guide to support you through any uncomfortable experiences. Another common concern is losing control or becoming disconnected from reality, but by setting clear intentions and keeping a grounded energy, you can ensure a safe and beneficial journey. Additionally, some people may struggle with staying focused or feeling like they are not experiencing anything profound. It is important to trust the process and be patient with yourself. Remember, every journey is unique and valuable in its own way.

Fear and resistance

Fear and Resistance

Facing fear and resistance is often a natural part of the shamanic journeying process. It is common for individuals to experience reluctance or resistance to the experience, especially if it is their first time practicing shamanic journeying. Let’s take a closer look at some of the common fears and challenges one may encounter during their journey.

Fear/Resistance	Description	Solution
Fear of the unknown	Many individuals fear the unknown and the uncertainty of what they may encounter during their shamanic journey. This can create a sense of anxiety and hesitancy to continue with the process.	It is important to remember that while the experience may be new and unknown, there are measures in place to ensure your safety. Trust in the process and believe that all that will come up during the journey is for your highest good.
Resistance to letting go	Releasing control and surrendering to the journey can be a difficult process. Some individuals may be resistant to letting go and allowing themselves to fully immerse in the experience.	Remind yourself that during the journey, you are in a safe and protected space. When you let go and trust the process, you can fully embrace the experience and receive the profound benefits of shamanic journeying.
Fear of encountering shadow aspects	The lower world can bring up shadow aspects and reflections of our inner selves that may be difficult to confront. This can create a sense of fear or discomfort during the journey.	It is important to remember that shadow aspects are a natural part of the journeying process and can lead to deep personal growth and healing. Trust in the guidance of your spiritual guide and stay open to the lessons that arise.
Resistance to change	Shamanic journeying can bring forth transformative experiences that can create a sense of resistance to change or reluctance in moving forward.	Stay present and keep an open mind to the opportunities for growth and healing that may arise during your journey. Remember that resistance to change is a common human experience and that by embracing change, you can open yourself up to profound personal transformation.

Remember, experiencing fear and resistance during the shamanic journey is normal. Approach these challenges with compassion, understanding, and trust in the process. By confronting your fears and resistance, you can open yourself up to profound personal growth and transformative experiences.

Lost or confusing experiences

Sometimes during a shamanic journey, you may experience lost or confusing thoughts, feelings, or sensations. This is completely normal and can happen for a variety of reasons. It could be that you are not fully grounded in your physical body or that your intention for the journey was not clear enough. It’s possible that you are not yet ready to receive certain information or that your mind is simply resisting the experience.

When you encounter lost or confusing experiences in the lower world, the best thing to do is to surrender and trust the process. Trust that your spiritual guide and the universe will bring you exactly what you need, even if it’s not immediately clear to you. Don’t be quick to judge the experience or label it as negative. Understand that the lower world can be a mysterious place and that what you perceive as lost or confusing may hold hidden insights and lessons.

If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or disoriented, focus on your breath and use grounding techniques such as visualizing roots extending from your feet deep into the earth or holding onto a physical object like a crystal or stone. You could also try calling upon your power animal or spiritual guide for assistance and guidance.

It’s important to remember that there is no right or wrong way to experience the lower world. Everyone’s journey is unique and subjective. Trust yourself and the journey, even if it’s not always easy or clear. Approach each experience with an open mind and heart, and be willing to learn and grow from whatever arises. In time, you may find that what you once perceived as lost or confusing was actually an important step in your spiritual journey.

Staying grounded and safe

Staying grounded and safe during a shamanic journey is crucial for the best experience possible. Grounding helps you stay connected to the physical world, while also allowing you to experience the Lower World with clarity and ease. Safety ensures that you remain protected from harmful energies or entities that may accompany you on your journey.

To stay grounded, it’s recommended that you visualize roots extending from the soles of your feet and deep into the Earth. This will help anchor you and establish a firm connection to the physical realm. You can also carry a physical object, such as a crystal or piece of jewelry, to help you feel grounded and connected.

Safety is essential during a shamanic journey, as you may encounter both positive and negative energies. Creating a protective bubble of light around yourself before beginning your journey can help keep unwanted energies at bay. You can also ask for the help of your spiritual guide, who can offer protection and support throughout your journey.

It’s important to listen to your instincts during a shamanic journey. If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe at any point, it’s okay to end the journey and return to ordinary reality. Sometimes, the best way to stay safe is to avoid exploring certain areas or to ask for guidance from your guide before proceeding.

By staying grounded and safe during your shamanic journey, you can fully immerse yourself in the experience without fear or hesitation. Remember to trust in yourself and your spiritual guide, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if needed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, exploring the lower world through shamanic journeying can be a powerful way to connect with the spiritual realm and gain insights and understanding about ourselves and our place in the world. By setting our intention, creating a sacred space, and clearing our energy before entering the journey, we can deepen our connection to the spiritual realm and create a safe and supportive environment for exploration.

During the journey, we may encounter power animals, confront shadow aspects of ourselves, and seek guidance and healing. It is important to approach these experiences with an open mind and heart, and to trust the guidance of our spiritual guide.

After the journey, it is important to take time for gratitude and closure, and to integrate and reflect on the insights and experiences gained. This introspection can lead to emotional and spiritual healing, as well as a deeper connection to the spirit world.

While there may be challenges and concerns along the way, such as fear and resistance, lost or confusing experiences, and staying grounded and safe, these can be overcome with patience, perseverance, and a willingness to seek support and guidance when needed.

In the end, the benefits of exploring the lower world in shamanic journeying are numerous and profound. Whether seeking answers to life’s deepest questions or simply looking to connect with the spiritual realm, this practice can bring us closer to ourselves and the universe around us.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can shamanic journeying be dangerous?

While shamanic journeying is generally safe, it is important to approach it with intention and respect. It is possible to encounter challenging or unsettling experiences in the lower world, but with proper preparation and guidance, these can often be transformed into opportunities for growth and healing.

2. How long does a typical journey last?

A shamanic journey can last anywhere from a few minutes to an hour or more, depending on the practitioner and their intentions. It is important to set aside enough time for the journey and to create a quiet, uninterrupted environment in which to practice.

3. Do I need to be experienced in meditation or spirituality to journey?

No prior experience with meditation or spirituality is necessary to journey. However, it is important to approach the practice with an open mind and a willingness to explore your inner landscape.

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

No, it is not recommended to journey while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. These substances can alter your perception and hinder your ability to safely navigate the lower world.

5. Can I record my journey in a journal or share it with others?

Yes, journaling can be a helpful way to process your experiences and insights from your journey. However, it is important to respect the privacy and confidentiality of others who may have also been involved in the journey.

6. How can I find a trained shamanic practitioner to guide me?

You can search online for shamanic practitioners in your area, or ask for recommendations from trusted friends or spiritual communities. It is important to choose a practitioner who resonates with you and whom you feel comfortable working with.

7. Can I journey for someone else?

Yes, with permission and clear intention, it is possible to journey on behalf of another person. However, it is important to remember that the experience is subjective and may not necessarily reflect the other person’s reality.

8. Can children journey?

It is possible for children to journey with the guidance of a trained practitioner and parental permission. However, it is important to approach the practice with age-appropriate language and activities, and to ensure that the child feels safe and supported throughout the journey.

9. Can I journey even if I don’t believe in spirit guides or the supernatural?

Yes, the practice of shamanic journeying can be approached from a secular or psychological perspective as well. The important thing is to approach the practice with curiosity and an open mind.

10. Will I always have a positive experience in the lower world?

No, it is possible to encounter challenging or uncomfortable experiences in the lower world. However, with proper preparation and guidance, these experiences can often lead to valuable insights and growth.

References

• The Shaman’s Journey: Moving Between the Worlds