Learning to See in the Dark: Understanding Shamanism
Discover a practice that bridges the seen and unseen, weaving together the soul’s story and offering a path to profound transformation
Energy healing is a journey, one that often begins with curiosity and unfolds into transformation. For many (like me), it starts with modalities like Reiki, which gently introduces the concept of universal energy and the profound ways it can bring balance to our lives. But as we dive deeper into our spiritual paths, the need for something more expansive, ancient, and deeply personal may emerge. That’s where Shamanic Healing comes in- a practice that bridges the seen and unseen, weaving together the soul’s story and offering a path to profound transformation.
What Is Shamanism?
Shamanism is one of the oldest forms of energy healing, rooted in traditions that date back thousands of years. Across cultures and continents, shamans have served as healers, medicine people, spiritual guides, and bridges between the physical and spiritual worlds. The term "shaman" itself translates to "one who sees in the dark," encapsulating the shaman’s ability to traverse the unseen realms to uncover wisdom, healing, and clarity.
At its core, Shamanism honours the idea that everything in existence carries a spirit- humans, animals, plants, stones, even the earth itself. This practice invites us to reconnect with the natural world and our own inner landscapes, fostering a sense of unity and balance.
How Does Shamanic Healing Work?
Shamanic Healing is deeply intuitive and interactive, making each session unique to the client’s needs. The process typically involves the shaman entering a meditative state, often called journeying, to access what are known as "non-ordinary realities."
In these spiritual realms, the shaman may:
Connect with spirit guides or power animals for insight and guidance.
Retrieve "lost" parts of the soul- fragments of our being that may have disconnected during times of trauma or emotional pain.
Clear energetic blockages or intrusions that might be causing physical, emotional, or spiritual discomfort.
Shamanic Healing goes beyond treating symptoms; it addresses the root causes of imbalance, helping clients uncover clarity, release what no longer serves them, and step into alignment with their authentic selves.
Why Shamanism?
In a world that often feels disconnected and chaotic, Shamanic Healing offers a profound sense of grounding and connection. Unlike other energy healing modalities, it doesn’t just channel universal energy- it actively works with the unique stories and experiences that shape your life.
You might be drawn to Shamanic Healing if you:
Feel stuck or disconnected from your life and purpose.
Experience recurring patterns or blocks that you can’t seem to break through.
Are navigating life transitions or seeking deeper clarity.
Want to explore your spiritual path and connect with your inner wisdom.
Shamanism invites you to step into a space where your healing journey is uniquely yours- guided by the wisdom of your soul and the support of the spirit realm.
What Is a Shamanic Healing Session Like?
Every Shamanic Healing session is different, tailored to meet the client where they are in their journey. When you come into a session, we start by setting an intention- whether it’s clarity, healing, or alignment. From there, I’ll enter a meditative state, journeying into non-ordinary realities to uncover insights and bring back what’s needed for your healing.
You may experience sensations of warmth, tingling, or deep relaxation. Some clients see vivid images or feel emotional releases, while others simply notice a sense of peace, calm, or clarity after the session.
The beauty of Shamanic Healing is its adaptability. Whether you’re facing a specific challenge or simply seeking deeper connection, the work will meet you exactly where you need it.
The Transformative Power of Shamanism
Shamanic Healing isn’t just about fixing what’s broken; it’s about remembering who you are. It helps you shed the layers of conditioning, trauma, and fear that keep you disconnected from your true self, allowing you to walk through life with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose.
For me, stepping into Shamanism has been like coming home; coming home to myself, to my path, and to the ancient wisdom that resides within us all. It’s a practice that honours your unique journey, offering tools and insights to navigate life with grace and alignment.
If you’re ready to explore this next step in energy healing, I’d be honoured to guide you. Together, we’ll journey into the unseen, uncover your soul’s wisdom, and illuminate your path forward.
Namaste. Today's Awakening Self post includes reflections on Shamanism, the Lakota ways (including comparative theology with Vaishnavism), and self-expressive drumming and writing. Given the topic of your post, I felt it was relevant to share this here.🙏🏻
https://awakeningself.substack.com/p/shamanism-lakota-and-self-expressive-drumming