Shamanism: A Modern Look at an Ancient Practice

Modern day shamans continue the quest of the "Wounded Healers" of the past. Balance of all levels of life is the goal of the shaman. A shaman may be male or female. Shamanism is not a religion. Many shamans use their spiritual studies, development and skills to enhance their chosen religion or to deepen their spiritual experiences.

What is a Shaman?

Shamanism is not magic. It is not Wicca. Nor is Shamanism a form of Ceremonial Magic. Even the most modern or new age shaman does not practice magic.

Shamanism may be practiced by anyone. Anyone who has a desire to begin a personal revelation towards inner healing may desire to do so through the study of shamanism. Anyone who seeks to understand the interconnectedness of the universe may benefit by the study of shamanism. A Shaman studies the network of energy patterns, vibrations and entities of the universe.

The shaman learns how to enter the spiritual realms so as to gain knowledge, spiritual growth and healing. This wisdom is used to benefit not only the practicing shaman but also others and the Earth.

The modern day shaman is unlike his ancient predecessors in as much as no longer looking to deprivation, mutilation or hallucinogens to learn his skills. Such intense spiritual experiences may by initiated by dedication, self-discipline, and patience.

Today shamans still find their study leading them to ties to nature, gaining the benefits of self-improvement and being able to study and practice shamanism on their own. Many books and resources are available to guide and direct the study. Practice is a solitary activity and allows the student to progress as his ability evolves.

Where did Shamanism originate?

The majority of historical documentation is sketchy at best but mentions shamans in various would cultures. Shamans are documented in the European, Native American and Lapp cultures. As a result of Christian domination of European countries it became a crime to teach or practice shamanism. Much of the historical description was lost or destroyed. Thus much of the basis of European Shamanism is based on myth or legend. Traditions were handed down from generation to generation or student to student in all of the mentioned cultures.

Practice of Modern Day Shamans

All Shamanic cultures share three basic levels of the universe. Shamans recognize the Upperworld, the Earth or Middle Zone and the Underworld. The three levels of the universe are joined by a central axis and may be depicted by various symbols.

The center of the universe can be anywhere that a sacred space is created and used. The shaman creates the sacred space. From this sacred space the shaman may engage on his journey.

One journey for the beginning shaman is to acquire or meet a guardian spirit or animal. The spirit may provide guidance and protection during later journeys.

As the shaman begins his study he strives for personal revelation and inner healing. This is necessary to evolve. By bringing balance and healing first to himself a shaman may later act as am intermediary for others. The shaman strives to bring balance and healing not only to himself but also into the immediate surroundings and to the Earth itself.

Resource:

By Oak, Ash, & Thorn, Modern Celtic Shamanism by D. J. Conway