Journeying to the Upper World: What to Expect and How to Navigate It

As human beings, we often find ourselves seeking guidance and connection beyond the physical realm. Many turn to journeying to the Upper World, a spiritual realm separate from our everyday reality. The concept of the Upper World may seem obscure or even fictional to some, but for those who have experienced it, it can be a profound and transformative journey. However, the journey to the Upper World requires a certain level of preparation and understanding to navigate it successfully. In this article, we will delve into what to expect when journeying to the Upper World and how to navigate it step-by-step. So, come along as we embark on a spiritual odyssey to discover the mysteries of the Upper World.

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The Upper World

The Upper World is a spiritual realm that can be accessed through shamanic journeying or similar trance-inducing practices. In this realm, one is believed to have access to divine wisdom, knowledge, and guidance from benevolent entities such as spirit guides, angels, and ancestors. Shamanic journeying is a common way to access the Upper World, which involves entering a trance-like state and using specific techniques to navigate this realm. One can reach the Upper World for various reasons, such as seeking answers to life’s questions, gaining clarity on one’s purpose, receiving healing and guidance, or connecting with higher beings. It is an immersive and profound experience that requires adequate preparation, intention-setting, and a willingness to trust the journey.

What is the Upper World?

The Upper World in shamanism refers to a spiritual dimension that exists above the earth plane. It is believed to be the realm of spirit guides, ancestors, and enlightened beings who can offer guidance and wisdom to those who journey there. It is a place of light and clarity, where the energy is more refined and subtle than in the physical world. Here are some key characteristics of the Upper World:

Connecting with the Upper World can be a transformative experience with many benefits for personal growth and spiritual development. As you journey there, you may gain insights on your life purpose, receive guidance on specific issues, and feel a sense of connection to something greater than yourself. It is important to prepare yourself mentally, emotionally, and physically before embarking on a journey to the Upper World. You can learn more about the basics of shamanic journeying, including how to prepare for a journey, key states of consciousness to be aware of, and the role of power animals in guiding your journey, in our Shamanic Journeying Basics Guide.

Why Journey to the Upper World?

Why should you journey to the Upper World?

Journeying to the Upper World can bring deep transformative experiences and insights. Here are some of the main reasons why people choose to journey to the Upper World:

Some people journey to the Upper World to receive guidance on specific issues such as career changes, health issues, or relationship challenges. Others want to connect with a higher purpose and deepen their spiritual practice. Whatever your motivation, journeying to the Upper World can be a powerful tool for exploration and transformation.

If you’ve never journeyed before or want to deepen your practice, check out our article on preparing for a shamanic journey and our overview of power animals and their role in journeying. Additionally, reading about common pitfalls to avoid in journeying and the recommended frequency of practice can be useful.

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Preparing for the Journey

Preparing for a shamanic journey to the Upper World is crucial in order to have a meaningful and successful experience. Before beginning the journey, it’s important to set intentions that are specific and clear, which will help guide you in your exploration. Creating a sacred space by burning sage or palo santo can also help protect the energy of the space and your journey. Once in a trance state, it’s important to remember to stay focused as to not get pulled into inner dialogue. By preparing yourself mentally and physically, you can overcome any potential resistance and have a powerful experience connecting with your spirit guide in the Upper World.

Setting Intentions

Setting intentions is a crucial aspect of preparing for a shamanic journey to the Upper World. It involves creating a clear and focused goal or purpose for your journey. This intention might be to gain insight into a particular question, to receive guidance on a particular issue, or simply to connect with your higher self. By setting a clear intention beforehand, you allow yourself to enter into the journey with intention and purpose, making it more likely that you’ll achieve your desired outcome.

To set your intentions, take some time to reflect on your current needs or desires. What are the things that you want to gain from your journey? Are there specific questions or issues that you’d like to explore? Once you have a clear idea of what you want to achieve, write it down or say it out loud to solidify your intention.

It’s important to keep in mind that your intention should be positive and empowering. Rather than focusing on what you don’t want, focus on what you do want to experience or achieve. This will help to create a positive and optimistic mindset which is conducive to a successful journey.

If you’re struggling to set your intentions, try meditating or doing some gentle yoga beforehand. This can help to clear your mind and create a more receptive state of mind. Additionally, you may want to consider seeking the guidance of a shamanic practitioner or joining a shamanic journeying group to help you clarify your intentions.

Finally, remember that setting intentions is just one part of the preparation process. To have a successful journey, you should also create a sacred space, induce trance, and invite your spirit guide. For additional tips on journeying, consider reading our other articles, such as Exploring the Lower World: Tips for Successful Journeys or The Healing Power of Shamanic Journeying: An Overview. Additionally, if you’re curious about the difference between shamanic and astral journeying, check out our article on Shamanic vs. Astral Journeying: What’s the Difference?

Creating Sacred Space

Creating a Sacred Space is an essential step in preparing for your journey to the Upper World. It is important to create a safe and energetically protected space so that you can connect with your Spirit Guide and explore the upper realm without any hindrances. The following are some steps to follow when creating a Sacred Space:

By following these steps, you can create a Sacred Space that will allow you to connect with the sacred energies of the Upper World. This will help you to have a clear and focused journey, and to be fully present in the experience. Remember, creating a Sacred Space is about setting up a safe container for your journeying to unfold.

Trance Induction

Trance induction is a crucial step in journeying to the Upper World. The term “trance” may sound unsettling, but it simply refers to a state of focused awareness that allows us to access deeper levels of consciousness. To induce trance, you can use various methods, such as drumming, chanting, or visualization. Whatever method you choose, the goal is to quiet your mind and enter a relaxed, meditative state.

One effective trance induction technique is slow, rhythmic breathing. You can begin by finding a comfortable seated position, or lying down, and focusing on your breathing. Slowly inhale through your nose, feeling your diaphragm expand, and then exhale slowly through your mouth. As you continue this slow, rhythmic breathing, allow your body to relax and release any tension. Allow your thoughts to come and go without judgment, focusing only on your breath.

Another technique that can be used in conjunction with slow breathing is visualization. Picture yourself in a peaceful setting, such as a meadow or by the ocean. Imagine the sights, sounds and smells of this serene place and allow those sensations to fill you with a sense of calm. You may also visualize a beam of light entering your body, filling you with positive energy and helping to clear away any negativity or distractions.

Regardless of which technique you choose, it’s important to allow yourself time to fully enter the trance state before proceeding with your journey. Take as much time as you need to feel fully relaxed and centered, and when you are ready, you can begin your ascent to the Upper World.

Meeting Your Spirit Guide

One of the most important aspects of journeying to the Upper World is meeting your spirit guide. This guide can help you navigate and understand the messages and lessons that the Upper World has to offer. To invite your spirit guide, it is important to set your intention clearly and with strong conviction. Once in a trance state, you can invite your guide to appear through visualization or a simple request. During this initial meeting, it is important to establish a connection and ask for their assistance and guidance. Your spirit guide may take on the form of an animal, a wise elder, or even a celestial being. Trust your intuition and let the experience unfold without judgment or expectation.

Inviting Your Spirit Guide

Inviting your Spirit Guide can be a powerful experience. To begin, make sure you are in a comfortable position and free from distractions. You can light a candle or burn some sage to create a calming atmosphere, and take a few deep breaths to relax your mind and body.

Visualize a doorway in front of you and focus on inviting your Spirit Guide to come through it. You may want to say a prayer or intention out loud, asking for their presence and guidance.

Once you feel their presence, take a few moments to connect with them. You may sense their energy, see them in your mind’s eye, or simply feel a sense of comfort and knowing. Trust your intuition and allow the connection to deepen.

It’s important to remember that your Spirit Guide is there to help and support you. Be open to their guidance and messages, even if it may not be what you expect or want to hear.

If you have trouble connecting with your Spirit Guide, don’t be discouraged. It may take time and practice to develop a strong connection. Keep trying and be patient with yourself.

Remember to thank your Spirit Guide for their presence and guidance before you end your journey. Closing with gratitude can help strengthen the connection and show your appreciation for their assistance.

Inviting your Spirit Guide can be a transformative experience that deepens your spiritual practice and provides guidance in your daily life. Trust in the process and allow yourself to be open to the possibilities.

Asking for Guidance

When you finally meet your Spirit Guide during your journey to the Upper World, it is important to know how to ask for guidance. Your Guide is there to assist you and offer wisdom, but you need to be clear on what kind of help you seek. This is where asking for guidance becomes crucial.

Be Specific in asking your Guide for assistance. Whether you are looking for answers to personal problems or seeking guidance for a decision you need to make, it is important to be clear about what you need help with. It is essential to ask specific questions that can be answered with a yes or no. This narrows the focus of what you need help with and allows for clearer communication with your Guide.

Be Open to the messages received. Open your heart and mind to the information and guidance your Spirit Guide may offer. Sometimes the answer you receive may not be what you expected but be open to receiving the message and its meaning. It could be that you need to look at the situation from a different perspective, and the message could be the clarity you need.

Use Your Senses to interpret guidance. Your Spirit Guide may communicate with you in various ways depending on your intuition or senses. Pay attention to any feelings, sounds, smells or visual cues you receive during your journey. Be aware that the information may come in an unexpected form, and you need to be open to receiving the message in any way it comes.

Show Gratitude for the guidance received. Once you have received the guidance you need, it is crucial to show gratitude to your Spirit Guide for their assistance. This act of appreciation helps strengthen the bond between you and your Guide while also affirming your trust in the guidance received.

Asking for guidance from your Spirit Guide is the most crucial aspect of your journey to the Upper World. Remember to be specific in your questions, open to unexpected messages, use your senses to interpret guidance, and show gratitude for the answers received. By following these steps, your journey will lead to the desired outcome and be a positive and empowering experience.

Exploring the Upper World

When exploring the Upper World, it’s important to keep an open mind and be receptive to the experiences that unfold. One of the first things to look for is the presence of your spirit guide, who can act as a navigator and help guide you through the realm. Pay attention to the colors, textures, and landscapes that you encounter, as they may contain important messages and insights. You may also encounter other spiritual beings or entities, so it’s important to stay grounded and connected to your intentions. Use your intuition to guide you on your journey, and remember that there is no one “right” way to navigate the Upper World. Experiment with different approaches, such as visualizations, soundscapes, or movement practices, to help deepen your connection and understanding of this realm.

What to Look For

As you journey to the Upper World, there are specific things that you should look for to guide you on your path. Here are some essential things to keep in mind:

Remember, each journey to the Upper World is unique, so stay open to whatever comes your way. By looking for these specific things, you will have a much richer and more meaningful experience.

How to Navigate

Navigating the Upper World can be an exhilarating experience, but it’s important to have a sense of direction while exploring this new realm. Here are several tips to help you navigate your way through the Upper World:

Remember, everyone’s journey through the Upper World will be unique, so don’t worry if your experience is different from others. Stay focused, trust your instincts, and allow your spirit guide to be your compass as you embark on this journey.

Returning from the Journey

After journeying to the Upper World, it’s important to properly close the sacred space you have created before your trance induction. This is done by thanking your spirit guide for their guidance and expressing gratitude for any messages received. You can also use some form of physical gesture, like blowing out a candle or ringing a bell, to symbolize the closing of your ceremony. Once the space is closed, it’s important to take some time to reflect on your experience. This can be done through journaling, meditation, or sharing your experience with a trusted friend or spiritual advisor. Remember to honor and integrate any insights or guidance you received into your daily life, as this is the true gift of journeying to the Upper World.

Closing Sacred Space

Closing Sacred Space is an important step in your journey to the Upper World. It is essential to properly close the space you have created in order to ensure that all energies have been cleared and you have returned to physical reality. Here are some steps to follow when closing your Sacred Space:

Step 1: Express Gratitude

Before closing the Sacred Space, take a moment to express gratitude to your spirit guide(s), the universe, and any other energies that may have come through during your journey. This is a way to show appreciation and respect for the guidance and protection they have provided during your journey.

Step 2: Release the Space

Next, release the space you have created. Verbally state that you are releasing and closing the Sacred Space. Use a phrase like “I now release and close this Sacred Space, allowing all energies to return to their proper place.”

Step 3: Ground Yourself

Ground yourself back into physical reality by taking a few deep breaths, feeling your feet on the ground, and becoming fully present. This helps to integrate the experience and bring you back to your physical body.

Step 4: Reflect on the Journey

Reflect on the experience you had in the Upper World. Write down any insights, messages, or guidance that you received. This will help you to better understand the purpose of your journey and provide clarity for any next steps.

Closing Sacred Space is an important part of the journey to the Upper World. By showing gratitude, releasing the space, grounding yourself, and reflecting on the experience, you can be assured that you have fully completed the journey and integrated the guidance and insights received.

Reflecting on the Experience

Once you have returned from your journey to the Upper World, it’s important to take the time for reflection. This process allows you to gain a deeper understanding of the experience and integrate any lessons or guidance received. Start by finding a quiet and comfortable space where you can sit and reflect.

Journaling: One effective way to reflect on your journey is through journaling. Write down anything that stands out to you, including any messages or images received. Take note of any emotions that arose during the journey and how they relate to your current life.

Meditation: Another way to reflect on the experience is through meditation. Sit with the memories of your journey and focus on any insights or guidance received. Allow yourself to simply be with the experience without judgment or analysis.

Integrating the Experience: It’s important to take what you have learned from the journey and apply it to your daily life. Consider how the lessons or guidance can help you in your personal or professional goals. Take action on any steps recommended by your spirit guide to bring your life into alignment with your intentions.

Remember that each journey is unique and the insights gained may take time to fully understand. Give yourself the space and time to reflect on the experience and trust that the guidance received will reveal its purpose in due time.

Common Challenges

Embarking on a journey to the Upper World can be an intense and transformative experience, but it can also come with its own set of challenges. Feeling lost or stuck is a common issue faced by those new to the practice. It’s important to remember that the journey is unique for everyone and that there is no right or wrong way to navigate it. Distracted by inner dialogue can also be a challenge. Quieting the mind and focusing on the journey can take practice, and it’s helpful to have techniques like deep breathing or visualization to call upon. Finally, fear or resistance can arise, especially when confronting the unknown. Remembering to set intentions and creating a safe, sacred space for the journey can help alleviate these fears. By acknowledging these challenges and utilizing the tools at our disposal, we can more easily navigate the journey to the Upper World.

Feeling Lost or Stuck

It’s not uncommon to feel lost or stuck during your journey to the Upper World. This can happen when you’re not sure what direction to go in, or when you feel like you’ve lost contact with your Spirit Guide. Here are some tips to help you navigate this common challenge:

Remember that feeling lost or stuck is a natural part of the journey, and that it can often lead to breakthroughs and new insights. Try to stay open and receptive to the experience, and trust that you will find your way.

Distracted by Inner Dialogue

If you find yourself distracted by your inner dialogue during your journey to the Upper World, know that this is a common experience. Your mind may be racing with thoughts and worries, making it difficult to focus on your journey.

Here are some tips to help you navigate this challenge:

Remember, it’s important to be patient with yourself and not get frustrated if you find your mind wandering. The more you practice, the easier it will become to quiet your thoughts and stay focused on your journey to the Upper World.

Fear or Resistance

Fear and resistance are common experiences when journeying to the Upper World, as this is a new experience that can bring up feelings of vulnerability and uncertainty. These emotions can be challenging to navigate, but with the right approach, they can be overcome.

Here are some strategies for addressing fear or resistance during your journey:

Remember, fear and resistance are natural responses to the unknown, but they do not have to control your experience. With the right tools and mindset, you can move through these emotions and experience the benefits of journeying to the Upper World.

Conclusion

In conclusion, journeying to the Upper World can be a transformative and enlightening experience. By following the steps mentioned above, one can successfully navigate this realm and connect with their spirit guides for guidance and wisdom. However, it is important to remember that this type of journeying is not for everyone and individuals should trust their intuition when deciding if it is right for them.

If you do decide to embark on a journey to the Upper World, remember to set a clear intention, create a sacred space, and allow yourself to enter into a trance state. Be open to meeting your spirit guide and trust the messages they have for you. Once you have explored this realm, take time to reflect on your experience and integrate any insights gained into your daily life.

It is also common to face challenges during these journeys, such as feeling lost or stuck, becoming distracted by inner dialogue, or experiencing fear and resistance. Know that these challenges are natural and normal, and try to approach them with curiosity and self-compassion.

Overall, journeying to the Upper World can be a powerful tool for personal growth and spiritual development. Take the time to prepare yourself properly and trust in the process. With openness, curiosity, and a willingness to learn, you can gain valuable insights and guidance from the realm of spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Upper World is a non-physical/spiritual realm where one can journey through shamanic practices to connect with spirit guides and gain insight and guidance.

People journey to the Upper World to receive guidance, gain insight, and connect with their spirit guides or power animals.

How do you set intentions before journeying to the Upper World?

You can set intentions by writing them down or stating them aloud before beginning your journey. It helps to be specific about what you want to gain insight or guidance on.

What is sacred space and why is it important?

Sacred space is a physical or energetic space created to protect and ground you during your journey. It helps create a safe and conducive environment for spiritual exploration.

What is trance induction and how is it achieved?

Trance induction is a state of altered consciousness that allows one to go into a deeper level of relaxation and openness to spiritual experiences. It can be achieved through various techniques like breathing exercises, meditation, or drumming.

How do you invite your spirit guide?

You can invite your spirit guide by calling out to them and visualizing them in your mind’s eye. It’s important to trust that they will appear for you and to be open to however they may manifest for you.

What should you do if you feel lost or stuck during your journey?

Take a deep breath and trust the process. It’s okay to take a break and come back to your journey later. Try to connect with your spirit guide or power animal for guidance and support.

What are some common challenges one may face when journeying to the Upper World?

Some common challenges include feeling distracted by inner dialogue, experiencing fear or resistance, and feeling lost or stuck during the journey.

How do you reflect on the experience after returning from the journey?

You can reflect on the experience by journaling or meditating on any insights or guidance received during the journey. It’s also important to integrate any lessons or guidance into your daily life.

Is journeying to the Upper World safe?

When done with proper preparation and under the guidance of a trained practitioner, journeying to the Upper World can be a safe and transformative experience. It’s important to trust in the process and always prioritize your own safety and well-being.

References

• Shamanic journeying: how to get started in 20 minutes
• The Shaman’s Journey: Exploring the Upper World
• FAQ: Shamanic Journeying – Follow Your Feel Good