Shamanism and Shamans have existed around the world since the Paleolithic era, in various traditions, groups and places – and though there are distinct styles of shamanic practice that differ based on where and when one is practicing, there are core similarities across the board. A word that comes from the Tungus tribes of Siberia, Shaman refers to a person who perceives the universe differently than others. They may be healers, diviners, or oracles – but they consistently use “journeying” for their work, wherein the shaman voluntarily enters non-ordinary reality through altered states of consciousness (induced by chanting, music, plant medicine, or other methods). This journey is where the shaman ventures through the spiritual realm with the help of spirit guides for their own benefit or for that of the community. The shaman realizes they themselves are only “powerful” through the relationship and support from their spirit helpers – and some of the best learnings and tools are given through this relationship rather than received by an elder shaman (though tutelage by an elder is absolutely part of the initiatory process). 

The shamanic path takes years and there are trials of the body and spirit that challenge the shaman and guide them into various evolutions, including the profound shift out of the traditional egoic human experience (that we are all separate) and into a unity consciousness (we are all one). The shamanic path can be isolating and at times terrifying and other times euphoric.

Eventually, the shaman sees the absolute truth of all things and does not challenge others’ world views – but instead sees a valid, constant and multilayered understanding of the interwoven nature of all life and all experiences. As such, the shaman not only holds the space between the human and spiritual “worlds,” but maintains the cognizance that all “realities” can simultaneously exist… that polarities are eternally held in a constant ebb and flow of balance and imbalance –  but never separate from one another.