How do you become a Shaman?

August 06 2024, by Willy van Knippenberg
2 min reading time

Think you were born to be a shaman? Think again! Learn how to walk the path to shamanism, from feeling a calling to serving your community.

Think you were born a shaman? Think again! While shamans have a mystical aura, the path to becoming one is more accessible than you might think. Ready to learn more about this fascinating role?

What is a Shaman?

A shaman is a spiritual healer and guide, often associated with traditional indigenous cultures. Shamans are seen as the bridge between the physical and spiritual worlds. They use rituals, plant medicines, and trance states to communicate with spirits, cure illness, and guide their communities.

1. Feeling the Calling

The path to shamanism often begins with a deep inner calling. Many shamans report feeling a strong connection to nature and the spiritual realm from a young age. This calling can be accompanied by dreams, visions, or significant life events that guide them toward shamanism.

2. Research and Learning

Before you can delve into the practice, it's important to learn as much as possible about shamanism. This means reading books, watching documentaries, and researching various shamanic traditions around the world. Understanding the basic principles of shamanism will help you build a solid foundation.

Book tip : "The Way of the Shaman" by Michael Harner is an excellent introduction to shamanism.

3. Find a Mentor

Traditionally, shamans are trained by experienced mentors, often within their own community. Finding a mentor or teacher is crucial because shamanism is deeply rooted in practice and experience. A mentor can guide you, introduce you to rituals and practices, and help you develop your skills.

Tip : Look for shamanic retreats or workshops where you can connect with experienced shamans.

4. Gaining experience with Rituals

Rituals are at the heart of shamanism. This includes working with sacred plants (such as ayahuasca), drumming, singing icaros (sacred songs), and meditation. These rituals help you enter a trance-like state and connect with the spiritual world.

Practical examples :

Drumming Sessions : Use rhythmic drumming to achieve a trance state.
Plant Ceremonies : Participate in traditional ceremonies with plants such as Ayahuasca or Peyote under the guidance of a shaman.

5. Serving the Community

A key aspect of shamanism is serving your community. This means using your skills to heal others, offer advice, and provide spiritual guidance. Many shamans are respected as leaders within their communities for their ability to help people with both physical and spiritual problems.

Practical Tip : Start small by offering your services to friends and family, and build your reputation as you gain more experience.

Closure

Becoming a shaman is a profound and lifelong path that requires dedication and respect for the spiritual world. Whether you feel called to do so or are simply fascinated by this ancient practice, remember that a shaman's journey is an ongoing learning experience.

Are you interested in shamanism? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!

Sources

Shamanism by Michael Harner
Sacred Science