Shamanism and the Concept of Rewilding: Reconnecting with Nature

Many of us may feel disconnected from nature and yearn for a sense of belonging in this world. Shamanism and the concept of rewilding provide a way to reconnect with the natural world and our own essence. Shamanism is a practice that seeks to connect with the spiritual world through trance-like states and ritualistic ceremonies, while rewilding focuses on returning to a more natural state of being, often by living closer to nature and embracing traditional skills. Together, they offer a pathway towards healing and growth, both individually and as a society. In this article, we will explore the definition, connection, benefits, challenges, and ways to incorporate shamanism and rewilding into your life.

Shamanism and Rewilding Defined

Shamanism is an ancient practice that has been used by indigenous cultures around the world for thousands of years. It involves connecting with the spirit world and using that connection to bring about healing and spiritual growth for individuals and communities. Shamans are the practitioners of this ancient tradition and they use various practices such as drumming, chanting, and dancing in order to enter into a trance-like state and connect with the spirit realm.

Rewilding is a relatively new concept that involves returning to a more natural way of living. It is often seen as a way to counter the negative impacts of modern society on the environment and on human well-being. Rewilding involves reconnecting with nature and the natural world in order to regain a sense of balance and wholeness.

The practice of shamanism and the concept of rewilding may seem unrelated at first glance, but they can actually be seen as complementary practices. Both involve a deep connection with nature and a desire to live in harmony with the natural world.

Shamanism and rewilding both emphasize the importance of recognizing our interconnectedness with all living things. Through shamanic practices such as working with the elements and connecting with plant and animal spirits, we can gain a deeper understanding of the natural world and our place within it. In the same way, rewilding encourages us to live in a way that is more in tune with the natural rhythms of the earth.

Together, shamanism and rewilding can help us to heal and grow on multiple levels including physically, emotionally, and spiritually. The benefits of these practices will be explored in more detail later in the article.

The Connection between Shamanism and Rewilding

Shamanism and rewilding share a deep connection in their focus on reconnecting with nature. Shamanism, a spiritual practice that has been around for thousands of years, is based on the belief in the spiritual power of nature and the spiritual interconnectedness of all living things. Rewilding, on the other hand, is a modern conservation movement aimed at restoring natural ecosystems and promoting biodiversity.

At first glance, these may seem like two separate concepts, but they are fundamentally linked. Shamanism recognizes the importance of living in harmony with nature and the need to respect all living beings, while rewilding seeks to restore the natural balance and help humans live in a way that is sustainable and in harmony with the environment.

In many ways, rewilding can be seen as a modern expression of shamanic teachings. Both stress the importance of reconnecting with the natural world and recognizing our place within it. Shamanism’s focus on our relationship with the natural world and the journey towards spiritual awakening complements rewilding’s conservation goals.

Incorporating shamanic spiritual practices into rewilding can bring deeper insights and a greater understanding of the natural world. By connecting with the spirits of trees, animals, and other living beings, we can gain a greater appreciation of the interconnectedness of all life and the importance of preserving ecosystems.

Modern shamanic practitioners can apply shamanic principles to their work within the rewilding movement. They could involve shamanic practices in fighting against climate change, cultivating nature, healing through nature, or creating shamanic art from natural materials. In this way, spiritual practice can be used as an inspiration and motivation to promote environmental conservation goals, making both fields more powerful together than separately.

Ancient Shamanic Traditions

Ancient shamanic traditions have been practiced for thousands of years in various indigenous cultures around the world. These traditions involve connecting with nature and the spiritual world through ritualistic practices, including the use of plant medicines, dance, and music. Shamans were highly respected members of their communities, acting as spiritual leaders and healers. They worked to maintain a balance between humans and the environment, understanding that everything in nature is interconnected. Today, many people are rediscovering the practices of ancient shamanic traditions as a way to reconnect with nature and find spiritual grounding in a rapidly changing world. Incorporating shamanism into one’s lifestyle may involve practices such as shamanic gardening, where individuals work with plants and the earth as a form of spiritual healing, or exploring the benefits of healing with nature and shamanism for mental and emotional well-being.

The Modern Concept of Rewilding

In the modern concept of rewilding, the objective is to restore natural processes and promote biodiversity by reintroducing and protecting endangered species, while simultaneously working towards the well-being of both the environment and human beings. The emphasis is on returning to balance and harmony with nature, creating sustainable ecosystems and protecting them. Many people believe that this can not only improve mental and emotional health but also physical health, as breathing in cleaner air, participating in outdoor activities and consuming organic and fresh produce have been linked with longevity and good health.

Rewilding also involves creating and protecting wildlife corridors, according to Dr. Eileen Crist, an environmental scientist. Wildlife corridors are pathways for animals to migrate safely. While it may also seem counterintuitive, rewilding has also been found to stabilize rural communities, providing jobs in ecotourism, conservation, and ecological restoration. In essence, humans and nature can coexist and even thrive in balance.

At present, the modern society is beset with problems such as climate change, pollution, deforestation, and the loss of biodiversity. The concept of rewilding is a solution to the problem by returning the land to its original, natural state. This is a critical step, particularly for people who live in urbanized or industrialized areas. Reconnecting with the natural world through rewilding helps them refocus their attention and lives towards a more holistic and meaningful existence.

Rewilding, when done correctly, can also be an effective tool in combatting the negative effects of climate change. By promoting the restoration of ecosystems, carbon sequestration can occur, which prevents further harm to the environment. It is also an effective way to preserve endangered plant and animal species, and to ensure that these species can continue to thrive and be part of the natural world.

Rewilding is the modern concept of reintroducing biodiversity, wildlife corridors, and sustainable ecosystems that focus on promoting harmony between humans and nature. It is a solution to the problems caused by industrialization and urbanization and a useful tool for combating climate change. Joining or initiating a rewilding project can aid in improving the health and well-being of both the individuals involved and the environment as a whole.

The Benefits of Shamanic Practises and Rewilding

Shamanism and rewilding have many benefits to our emotional and mental well-being. The fast-paced, modern world can often lead to feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression. Shamanic practises, such as meditation, drumming, and journeying, can help us to connect with our inner selves and find a sense of peace. Additionally, spending time in nature as part of our rewilding process can be soothing and grounding, allowing us to reconnect with the natural world and experience a sense of calm.

The benefits of rewilding and shamanism go beyond just emotional and mental health; they can also improve our physical health. By spending time in nature, we can engage in physical activities such as hiking, swimming, and gardening. These activities not only increase our physical fitness, but also provide us with fresh air and exposure to sunlight, which are important for our overall health.

Shamanic practises and rewilding can also lead to spiritual growth and personal development. Connecting with nature and incorporating shamanic practises into our daily lives can help us to gain a deeper understanding of the natural world and our place within it. Additionally, working with plant medicine and animal spirits can open up new avenues of spiritual exploration and help us to cultivate a sense of inner wisdom and intuition.

One example of the spiritual benefits of shamanic gardening is that it connects us to the cycles of life, death, and rebirth. Watching a seed grow into a plant and then cycle back into the earth can help us to better understand our own spiritual journey.

Incorporating shamanic practises and rewilding into our lives can lead to a sense of spiritual connection and growth, helping us to find deeper meaning and purpose in our lives.

Internal link: For more information on the connection between shamanism and environmentalism, check out our article on Shamanism and Environmentalism.

Emotional and Mental Health

One of the key benefits of incorporating shamanic practices and rewilding into your life is the improvement of emotional and mental health. In the modern world, it can be easy to get caught up in stress, anxiety, and depression. However, practicing shamanic traditions and connecting with nature can help alleviate these negative emotions and promote overall well-being. By immersing yourself in nature and taking on a shamanic mindset, you can become more mindful and present, which promotes greater inner peace. Research has shown that spending time in nature can lower stress levels and improve cognitive function. Additionally, connecting with plant medicine and animal spirits can provide powerful insights and tools for healing. Whether it is through shamanic gardening, using herbal remedies, or working with totem animals, incorporating shamanic and rewilding practices into your life can have profound benefits for your emotional and mental health.

Physical Health

One of the benefits of incorporating shamanism and rewilding into your life is improved physical health. Shamanic practices and spending time in nature can have a positive impact on your body. Here are ways in which this can be achieved:

Physical Benefit	Description
Reduced Stress	Shamanic practices such as meditation, yoga, and spending time in nature can help reduce stress levels, which can in turn have a positive impact on physical health. Chronic stress can lead to a number of health issues such as headaches, high blood pressure, and a weakened immune system.
Better Sleep	Spending time in nature, especially getting sunlight in the morning, can help regulate our circadian rhythm, leading to better sleep. Additionally, practicing shamanic rituals or meditations before bed can help calm the mind and promote deeper, more restful sleep.
Improved Physical Fitness	Reconnecting with nature can offer opportunities for physical activity such as hiking, rock climbing, and swimming. Practicing shamanic rituals or yoga can also improve physical fitness and flexibility.
Pain Reduction	Shamanic healing practices may help reduce physical pain, especially chronic pain such as arthritis or migraines. Additionally, spending time in nature and practicing meditation can lower inflammation and pain perception in the body.
Boosted Immune System	Spending time in nature and rewilding can lead to exposure to beneficial microbes and bacteria that can strengthen the immune system. Additionally, shamanic practices such as chanting, drumming, or singing can stimulate the vagus nerve, which is linked to improved immune function.

Incorporating shamanism and rewilding into your life can have lasting physical health benefits. By reducing stress, improving sleep and physical fitness, reducing pain, and boosting the immune system, this way of life can lead to a healthier, happier you. So, consider trying out shamanic gardening as a form of spiritual healing, or get outside and try some hiking or yoga in nature. Embracing the benefits of nature is a great first step towards better physical health.

Spiritual Growth

Shamanism and rewilding practices offer a powerful path to spiritual growth. By reconnecting with nature and our ancient spiritual traditions, we can develop a deeper sense of meaning and purpose in our lives.

Exploring inner realms: Shamanic practices involve journeying to the inner realms through meditation, drumming, and the use of entheogenic plant medicines. This can allow individuals to access deeper aspects of themselves and gain insight into their purpose and path in life.

Connection to Spirit: Shamanism emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things and the spiritual essence that resides within each of us. By connecting with the natural world and the spirit of animals, plants, and the elements, we can develop a more profound connection to the Divine.

Healing wounds: Many individuals turn to shamanism and rewilding practices as a form of spiritual healing. By connecting with ancient wisdom and integrating it into our modern lives, we can heal deep wounds and traumas and move forward on our spiritual journeys.

Integrated living: Shamanism and rewilding can support our spiritual growth by encouraging us to live in harmony with the natural world. When we view ourselves as integral parts of the ecosystem, we can live more sustainable, fulfilling lives and deepen our connection to the Divine.

Shamanic Gardening: For those interested in incorporating shamanism into their daily lives, shamanic gardening can be a powerful practice. By growing medicinal herbs, connecting with plant spirits, and honoring the cycles of nature, we can deepen our spiritual connection to the Earth. (Internal link: Shamanic Gardening for Spiritual Healing)

Healing through Nature: Nature can be a powerful source of healing and spiritual growth. Many shamanic and rewilding practices involve spending time in nature, connecting with the elements, and tuning into the rhythms of the natural world. (Internal link: Healing through Nature in Shamanism)

Ways to Incorporate Shamanism and Rewilding into Your Life

If you’re interested in incorporating shamanism and rewilding into your life, there are a variety of practices and techniques you can try. These include:

One of the most fundamental ways to incorporate shamanic practices and rewilding into your life is through a deeper connection with nature. Spend time in nature and engage with the environment around you. Try to cultivate a deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural world, and approach your surroundings with a shamanic mindset. This means being open to the idea that nature has inherent wisdom and teachings to offer and being willing to listen to the messages that come through.

Another way to incorporate shamanism and rewilding into your life is to work with plant medicine and animal spirits. This can include using herbal medicine, such as teas or tinctures, to support your physical and emotional health. It can also involve connecting with animal spirits through meditation, dreams, or shamanic journeying. By connecting with these allies, you can gain deeper insights into yourself and the world around you.

Shamanism has a long history of being a communal practice, and many modern shamanic practitioners still engage in group work. Joining a shamanic community or finding a circle of like-minded individuals can be a great way to deepen your understanding of shamanism and rewilding, as well as gain support and guidance on your journey.

Remember, incorporating shamanism and rewilding into your life is a personal journey and there is no one right way to do it. Experiment with different practices and techniques, and find what resonates with you. The important thing is to approach these practices with an open mind and a willingness to learn and grow.

Exploring Nature with a Shamanic Mindset

Exploring nature with a shamanic mindset involves utilizing your senses to truly connect with the natural world and its energies. You can start by finding a place outside where you feel safe and comfortable. Take deep breaths and focus on your intention to connect with nature on a deeper level. Listen for the sounds of the environment, smell the fragrances of the area and feel the textures of the ground beneath your feet. Allow yourself to become fully immersed in the moment. Observe the animals and plants around you and try to connect with their energy. Use your intuition and instinct to guide you as you explore. This practice can help you develop a more meaningful connection with nature and yourself.

Connecting with Plant Medicine and Animal Spirits

Connecting with Plant Medicine and Animal Spirits is an essential aspect of Shamanic Practises and Rewilding. These two practices believe that plants and animals hold a life force, and every living creature is interconnected. There are several ways to connect with plant medicine and animal spirits.

Plant Medicine:

Plant medicine is the practice of using plants, herbs, and trees to heal the mind, body, and spirit. Plants are considered to be sentient beings, and their energies can help us connect with our inner selves and the environment.

One way to connect with plant medicine is to take a plant medicine ceremony led by a Shaman. In this ceremony, the Shaman will guide you to the spirit world, where you can communicate with plant spirits and gain insights into your life.

Another way is to create a garden and incorporate plants with healing properties that resonate with you. You can learn about their properties and use them for medicinal purposes.

Animal Spirits:

Animal spirits are considered to be guides that can help us navigate through life. Shamanic Practises and Rewilding believe that every animal has specific qualities that can help us learn and grow.

One way to connect with animal spirits is to meditate and visualize the animal that resonates with you. Reflect on the qualities of the animal and how they can apply to your life.

You can also incorporate animal symbolism into your life by wearing animal totems or having artwork depicting animals in your living space.

It’s important to remember that connecting with plant medicine and animal spirits is not a one-time event. It’s a continuous journey of learning and growth, and it requires patience and dedication. By connecting with these life forces, we can deepen our connection to nature and ourselves.

Joining a Community

Joining a community is a great way to incorporate shamanism and rewilding into your life. It can be difficult to walk this path alone, so finding like-minded people can provide support and guidance. Here are some ways to find a community:

1. Look for local shamanic groups: Many communities have shamanic circles where people come together to practice shamanic techniques and share their experiences. Search on social media or online directories to find a group near you.

2. Attend shamanic retreats: Look for retreats that focus on shamanic practices and rewilding. These retreats provide an opportunity to connect with like-minded people and develop a deeper understanding of nature and shamanism.

3. Volunteer: Look for environmental organizations or animal sanctuaries in your area that align with your values. Volunteering is a great way to connect with people who share similar interests and values.

4. Take a class: Many community centers and holistic health centers offer classes on shamanism, meditation, herbalism, and other practices. Taking a class can give you an opportunity to connect with others who share an interest in shamanism and rewilding.

5. Online communities: If you can’t find a local community, consider joining an online community. There are many Facebook groups, forums, and online classes that focus on shamanism, rewilding, and nature-based spirituality.

Remember, when joining a community, it’s important to respect others’ views and opinions. Each person’s path is unique, and what resonates with one person may not resonate with another. By being open and respectful of others, you’ll create a supportive and nurturing environment where everyone can grow and learn from each other.

Challenges in Rewilding and Shamanism

Shamanism and the concept of rewilding have many benefits for individuals who are seeking to connect with nature and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. However, like any meaningful endeavor, there are also challenges that need to be addressed when attempting to incorporate these practices into your life. Some of the most significant challenges are discussed below.

One of the most significant challenges of incorporating shamanism and rewilding into your life is finding ways to stay connected to nature in the modern world. Many people live in urban or suburban environments that are disconnected from the natural world. The constant stimulation of technology and urban landscapes can make it difficult to cultivate a deeper connection with the natural world.

To overcome this challenge, you can make a conscious effort to spend more time in nature. You could take a walk in a nearby park or nature reserve, go on a camping trip, or simply spend time sitting in a local garden. Another way to stay connected to nature is by incorporating natural elements into your home and workspace, such as indoor plants or natural light.

Ways to Stay Connected to Nature in the Modern World
Take regular nature breaks: Even just a few minutes spent outside can help to reduce stress and increase feelings of well-being.
Go on regular outdoor adventures: Make a point of planning regular camping trips or hikes in order to spend more time in nature.
Incorporate natural elements into your home and workspace: Adding plants, natural light, and other natural elements to your environment can help to create a more peaceful and calming atmosphere.

Another major challenge of incorporating shamanism and rewilding into your life is overcoming fear and resistance to change. Trying new things and stepping outside of your comfort zone can be intimidating, especially if they challenge deeply held beliefs or require significant lifestyle changes.

To overcome this challenge, it can be helpful to start small and build your way up. Start with simple practices like spending more time in nature or practicing mindfulness meditation, and gradually build up to more challenging practices like deep wilderness survival. It’s also important to remind yourself of the benefits of these practices and focus on the positive changes they can bring to your life.

Ways to Overcome Fear and Resistance to Change
Start small: Begin with simple practices and gradually build up to more challenging ones.
Focus on the benefits: Remind yourself of the positive changes that can come from incorporating shamanism and rewilding practices into your life.
Find support: Joining a community of like-minded individuals can help to provide encouragement and support as you work to overcome your fears and resistance to change.

By addressing these challenges, it is possible to incorporate shamanism and rewilding practices into your life and enjoy the many benefits they have to offer. It may take time, effort, and persistence, but the rewards of a deeper connection with nature, improved health, and spiritual growth are well worth it.

Staying Connected to Nature in the Modern World

In today’s modern world of technology and concrete, it can be challenging to maintain a deep connection with nature. However, it’s important to remember that we are all part of the natural world and dependent on it for our survival. One way to stay connected is by prioritizing time spent outdoors, even if it’s just a walk in the park during lunchtime. Meditation and visualization techniques can also help to cultivate a deeper connection with the natural world, allowing us to tap into the wisdom and energy of nature. Practicing gratitude for the gifts of the earth and making conscious choices to reduce our impact on the environment are other ways to stay connected. It’s important to remember that even small acts can make a difference and contribute to our overall sense of well-being and connection to the world around us.

Overcoming Fear and Resistance to Change

Overcoming Fear and Resistance to Change can be one of the biggest obstacles in incorporating shamanic practices and rewilding into your life. A lot of people fear stepping out of their comfort zone and trying something new, especially when it involves confronting parts of themselves they may not be comfortable with. Here are some helpful tips for overcoming fear and resistance to change:

Tip	Description
1. Start Small	It’s important to not overwhelm yourself with too much change at once. Start by incorporating small shamanic practices or spending short amounts of time in nature before gradually increasing.
2. Reflect on Your Fears	Take some time to journal or reflect on what exactly is causing your fear or resistance to change. Understanding the root of your fears can help you overcome them.
3. Seek Support	Joining a community of like-minded individuals who are also interested in shamanism and rewilding can provide a supportive environment to explore these practices and overcome fear and resistance to change.
4. Embrace Vulnerability	Being vulnerable is an important part of shamanic practices and rewilding. Embracing vulnerability can help you confront your fears and move past them.
5. Practice Mindfulness	Mindfulness practices, such as meditation, can help you stay present in the moment and recognize and overcome your fears when they arise.

Remember, overcoming fear and resistance to change is a process, and it’s important to be patient and kind to yourself throughout the journey. With practice and perseverance, incorporating shamanic practices and rewilding into your life can lead to profound personal growth and a deeper connection with nature.

Conclusion

In conclusion, shamanism and the concept of rewilding have a lot to offer those who are seeking a closer connection with nature. By embracing the wisdom of ancient shamanic traditions and the modern concept of rewilding, individuals can experience a host of benefits for their emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual well-being.

However, it is important to acknowledge that incorporating these practices into our lives is not always easy. The challenges of staying connected to nature in the modern world and overcoming fear and resistance to change can be daunting. But by taking small steps and surrounding ourselves with like-minded individuals, we can gradually shift our mindsets and make the necessary changes to live in greater harmony with nature.

Ultimately, the benefits of shamanic practises and rewilding far outweigh any challenges we may face. By connecting with the natural world and embracing our wildness, we can tap into a deeper sense of purpose and meaning in our lives. So, let us all take steps to incorporate these practices into our lives and reconnect with the Earth. It is the only planet we have, and we must do our part to protect it and live in harmony with it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is shamanism?

Shamanism is a practice that involves connecting with spirit realms and seeking knowledge and healing from the non-physical world. It is often associated with ancient indigenous cultures.

What is rewilding?

Rewilding is the process of returning an ecosystem to its natural state by reintroducing native species and removing human-made structures and interventions. It is aimed at restoring natural balance and biodiversity.

How do shamanism and rewilding relate to each other?

Shamanism and rewilding share the common goal of reconnecting humans with nature in a way that fosters greater empathy, respect, and stewardship. The practices of shamanism can help individuals develop a deeper spiritual relationship with nature, while rewilding helps to restore the balance of natural ecosystems that humans have disrupted.

What are some ancient shamanic traditions?

Shamanic traditions vary across cultures, but many involve trance states induced through rituals like drumming and chanting. Shamanic practitioners are often viewed as intermediaries between the physical and spiritual worlds and may use tools like crystals, feathers, and plants to facilitate communication with spirits.

What is the modern concept of rewilding?

The modern concept of rewilding was first proposed in the 1990s as a way to restore ecological balance and biodiversity in areas that have been impacted by human activities. It often involves reintroducing native species, removing human-made structures, and allowing ecosystems to self-regulate.

What are some benefits of shamanic practices and rewilding?

Shamanic practices can help individuals develop a deeper sense of connection with nature, which has been linked to improved emotional, mental, and spiritual health. Rewilding can help to restore degraded ecosystems, increase biodiversity, and mitigate climate change by sequestering carbon in vegetation and soils.

How can shamanism and rewilding benefit mental health?

Studies have shown that spending time in nature can reduce stress, improve mood and cognitive function, and increase feelings of connection and meaning. Shamanic practices can help individuals develop a deeper relationship with nature, which may further contribute to these positive mental health outcomes.

How can someone incorporate shamanism and rewilding into their life?

There are many ways to incorporate shamanic practices and rewilding into one’s life, including spending time in nature, practicing mindfulness and meditation, and connecting with plant and animal spirits. Joining a community of like-minded individuals can also provide support and guidance in these practices.

What are some challenges that people may face when engaging in shamanism and rewilding?

Some people may struggle to find the time or resources to engage in shamanic or rewilding practices, particularly if they live in urban or suburban areas. Overcoming fear or discomfort with spending time in nature can also be a challenge, as can resistance to change or unfamiliar cultural practices.

What is the overall message of this article?

The message of this article is that shamanism and rewilding offer powerful tools for reconnecting with nature and restoring ecological balance. By incorporating these practices into our lives, we can improve our physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being while also contributing to a healthier planet.

References

• Indigenous Shamanism
• Rewilding the Spirit