The Essence of Shamanism

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file8231269552247How does one explain the essence of shamanism? How does one explain the power of dreams, the connection to nature, the healing found in beauty, or the depth that being present takes you in a shamanic practice? How does one explain the clarity that can be found and the shift that takes place when one practices this way of life? It feels trite to say that nothing is the same, yet it is so fully the truth. Shaman John Cantwell, from Ireland, states, “Shamanism is not a faith, but a wisdom tradition in which we learn purely from our own individual, collective and personal experience. It is not a religion and is dogma-free; indeed it supports any existing spiritual practice one already has. Many of us deeply desire a connection to our own ‘soulfulness’ and that of all other living beings in a free and natural way. This is the essence of Shamanism.” It is within this thought that one begins to understand that unlike many types of spiritual practices, shamanic practice cannot be put into a box of simple definition, as it is expansive and fluid in its measure.

Shamanic healing seeks to make one whole again. It may at times result in bringing back lost parts of the soul from a place of hiding or retreat in realms that go beyond what our eyes can see, our bodies feel or our ears hear, yet exist in a reality that is felt when one is experienced with the journey to them. This healing can help restore a person’s power, remove spiritual blocks, open the life of the healed to other perspectives, and help in discovering and restoring the impact of the energetic origins of illness and more.

Shamanic presence means being open to the relationships of spiritual guides, trusting on the use of rituals, being open to the life long lessons that are necessary for the evolution of ones shamanic path and remaining connected to the energies and creatures of the earth and the Universe. Soul care is a priority in the shamanic practice. This care can take on many different forms and utilize a variety of shamanic tools and practices that each individual soul care practitioner hones and develops to create a unique and personal relationship with.

No one book can be read, no one practice is for all, no one rite or ritual applies to everyone when it comes toKONICA MINOLTA DIGITAL CAMERA shamanism. Yet the one aspect of shamanism that does apply to all is that when one is called to practice shamanism there is a resonation of truth, a freedom and release of what feels negative, old or blocking, and an embracing of what feels empowering, transformative and expansive. Life presents itself differently when on this path. Beauty is found in all aspects of it. This beauty transcends any current definition we currently have and the soul awakens in to a brilliance that was not seen before. Life looks different because it is. And so it is for those who share in the gifts and essence of the shamanic practice.

Blessings ~ Lisa

©COPYRIGHT 2013 Lisa Meade