A Beginner’s Guide to Core Shamanism: Steps to Start Your Journey

Shamanism, an ancient spiritual practice rooted in many cultures worldwide, is gaining popularity among those seeking deeper connections with nature, their inner selves, and the universe. Core Shamanism, a modern adaptation of traditional shamanic practices, provides a pathway for individuals to explore this profound spiritual experience without the need for cultural appropriation or specific ethnic rituals. This guide will help you embark on your journey into Core Shamanism with essential steps, practices, and insights.

What is Core Shamanism?

Core Shamanism is a concept developed by anthropologist Michael Harner in the 1980s. It distills the common elements of shamanic practices from various cultures, focusing on techniques that can be applied universally, regardless of cultural background. The essence of Core Shamanism lies in three key components:

1. Journeying: A practice involving altered states of consciousness, typically achieved through drumming or other rhythmic sounds.
2. Power Animals: Spirit guides that assist individuals on their shamanic journey.
3. Healing Techniques: Methods for addressing emotional, physical, and spiritual ailments.

Core Shamanism offers a flexible framework for personal exploration and healing while respecting the traditions from which it draws inspiration.

Step 1: Understanding Shamanic Basics

What is a Shaman?

A shaman is a person who acts as an intermediary between the human and spirit worlds. Traditionally, shamans are healers, counselors, and guides who use their unique abilities to communicate with spirits and facilitate healing. In Core Shamanism, anyone can become a “shaman” in the sense of accessing their own inner wisdom and connecting with the spirit world.

Key Concepts in Shamanism

• Altered States of Consciousness (ASC): These states are essential for shamanic journeying. They can be induced through drumming, dancing, meditation, or other rhythmic activities.
• Spirit World: In shamanic beliefs, this realm comprises various dimensions inhabited by spirits that can provide guidance and support.
• Soul Retrieval: A healing process through which a shaman retrieves lost parts of an individual’s soul caused by trauma or emotional distress.

Step 2: Preparing for Your Journey

Creating Sacred Space

Before embarking on your shamanic journey, it’s crucial to create a sacred space that feels safe and comfortable. Here are some suggestions:

• Choose a Quiet Area: Find a place where you won’t be disturbed.
• Set Your Intention: Clearly define what you hope to achieve during your journey.
• Use Symbols: Decorate your space with items that hold personal significance or represent your intentions (e.g., crystals, feathers, or images).
• Lighting and Aroma: Consider dim lighting and soothing scents like sage or incense to enhance the atmosphere.

Grounding Yourself

Grounding techniques help connect you to the Earth and prepare you for journeying. Simple practices include:

• Breathwork: Take deep breaths while visualizing roots extending from your body into the ground.
• Nature Walks: Spend time outdoors to absorb natural energy.

Step 3: Learning Journeying Techniques

The Art of Journeying

Journeying is at the heart of Core Shamanism. Begin by finding a comfortable position—either lying down or sitting—and follow these steps:

1. Set Your Intention: Focus on what you wish to explore during your journey.
2. Begin Drumming: Use a drumbeat or recorded drumming sound at around 4-7 beats per second to help enter an altered state of consciousness.
3. Visualize: Allow images or sensations to arise as you journey inward. You might find yourself in a forest, mountain, or any other landscape that feels meaningful.
4. Meet Your Power Animal: During your journey, ask to meet your power animal—a spirit guide that can assist you on your spiritual path.
5. Receive Messages: Be open to insights or messages from the spirit world. Trust your intuition during this process.

Journaling Post-Journey

After your journey experience, spend some time journaling about what you encountered. Documenting your experiences helps integrate insights into your waking life and provides clarity moving forward.

Step 4: Discovering Your Power Animal

Power animals play an essential role in shamanic practices as they provide support and guidance throughout your journey.

How to Connect with Your Power Animal

1. Set an Intention: Before your next journey, express the desire to meet your power animal.
2. Journey Again: Follow the previous steps of journeying while focusing on this intention.
3. Interpret Encounters: Pay attention to any animals that appear; they may symbolize particular attributes or energies relevant to your life.

Working with Your Power Animal

Once you’ve connected with your power animal:

• Build a Relationship: Engage with them regularly during journeys.
• Ask for Guidance: Seek their insights regarding challenges or decisions in your life.
• Acknowledge Their Presence: Honor them by incorporating their imagery in your sacred space or referring to them in meditative practices.

Step 5: Engaging in Healing Practices

Shamanism offers numerous healing techniques that can address physical and emotional well-being.

Soul Retrieval Techniques

Soul retrieval is one of the most significant healing aspects of shamanism. If you’ve experienced trauma or loss—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual—consider these steps:

1. Journey for Healing: While journeying, seek guidance from your power animal regarding lost parts of yourself.
2. Request Assistance from Spirits: Ask benevolent spirits for help in retrieving lost energy or fragments of your soul.
3. Integrate the Healing: Upon returning from your journey, focus on reintegrating those aspects back into yourself through meditation and self-care practices.

Other Healing Modalities

• Energy Clearing: Utilize smudging with sage or using sound (such as singing bowls) to clear negative energies from yourself or spaces.
• Rituals: Create personal rituals that reflect your intentions—lighting candles during important moments can serve as powerful anchors.

Step 6: Continued Learning and Community Engagement

Exploring Core Shamanism is an ongoing journey; consider pursuing further education:

Books and Resources

Several texts offer profound insights into shamanism:

• “The Way of the Shaman” by Michael Harner
• “Shamanic Journeying” by Sandra Ingerman
• “The Spirit of Shamanism” by Roger Walsh

Workshops and Classes

Seek out local workshops or online classes led by experienced practitioners. Engaging with community members fosters connection with those on similar paths while allowing opportunities for deeper learning.

Joining Community Groups

Connecting with other seekers can enhance your understanding of shamanic practices. Look for local circles or online forums where you can share experiences and learn together.

Conclusion

Embarking on a journey into Core Shamanism is both exciting and transformative. By following these steps—understanding the basics, preparing sacred space, learning journey techniques, discovering power animals, engaging in healing practices, and committing to ongoing learning—you will cultivate a profound connection within yourself and with the world around you. Remember that every individual’s experience is unique; trust your instincts as you navigate this spiritual path toward self-discovery and healing.