What is Shamanism?

Last Updated: 24Jan10

Shamanism is the oldest form of spiritual practice and pre-dates all organised religion. The word shaman is Turkic-Mongol and is often translated as “one who knows”. Many anthropologists now use the term shaman for all traditional healers who work as intermediaries between the physical and spirit worlds to bring balance and healing to individuals, their communities and their environment. Traditional forms of shamanism are still being practised today from Australia to Siberia, South America to Finland and Africa to Mongolia.

Over the last 30 years, research by anthropologists has led to the development of “core” shamanism which allows a Western practitioner to use the universal principles and practices of “classic” shamanism without appropriating the cultural elements of any specific indigenous society. This approach has proved highly effective and many core shamanic practitioners witness similar results to those produced by traditional shaman but in ways more appropriate to our own culture.

The shaman's role is to maintain balance, since without balance we can become mentally, physically or emotionally unwell. The shaman does this by entering a trance, or “ecstatic” state to the sound of rythmic drumming and then journeys to the spirit worlds with the aid of spirit helpers, normally in animal form.

During the journey, the shaman seeks out the cause of the problem or illness and brings back the healing or empowerment needed. This can be as soul parts, a power retrieval or in other forms. The shaman may also remove any intrusions or blockages. Journeys can also be used to obtain information, wisdom or guidance on matters ranging from everyday issues to major life concerns.

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