Shamanism: what it is, origin, rituals, power animal and more

the term shamanismcreated by anthropologists, is a set of ancestral practices, in which nature, animals, plants, stones, the universe and the planet are seen as sacred, divinity or spirits of light.

It is the same culture of honoring ancestral knowledge that occurs among the Eskimos, among the Indians of North America, Central America and South America, as well as Oceania, Australia and Asia.

Shamanism, in its origin, does not belong solely to a particular people or culture, as it is a consequence of the awakening of human consciousness itself, regardless of location or culture.

Currently, we can say that shamanism is divided into two schools: the traditional shamanismwhich follows the native traditions of each place, and the neoshamanismwhich adapts therapeutic practices from different lines, from ancestors and indigenous people from various countries to an urban reality.

What is the origin of Shamanism?

There are traces of shamanism in all religions, as practices emerged in the Paleolithic period and developed along with the human being’s ability to understand.

However, shamanic practices are growing due to the need to balance the individual’s interests in technology, without neglecting the connection and care for nature.

That way, shamanism is re-emerging as a way of harmonizing relationships with what is divine, with nature, with the universe.

It is important to point out that shamanism is not a religionas it is a set of very old rituals, such as dances and songs, in addition to the use of psychoactive substances found in herbs and words used to evoke allied spirits.

Several peoples, from different parts of the planet, sought a spiritual connection in elements of nature, which is why we do not have a precise origin and place regarding the emergence of shamanism.

Shamanic Rituals: What Are They?

The shamanic ritual presupposes the presence of a leader with a greater spiritual connection known as shaman. A person who exhibits an expanded state of consciousness, thereby demonstrating powers that he ordinarily does not possess. For example, communication with spirits through instruments specific to these rituals.

Shamanic rituals therefore use the power of stones, plants and animals, evoking energies that come from ancestors to bring about healing, emotional transformations and growth in people’s lives.

For this, instruments of power are used, such as circles, totems, dances, meditations, etc.

When people perform ceremonies and rituals, in a group or individually, a sacred space is created for the passage of energy, thus their hearts open and expand.

Learn about some shamanic rituals here that help with internal healing, as they clean our vibratory field and balance our aura and chakras.

Shaman x shaman: similarities and differences

Shaman status is achieved by men or women who have generally gone through a period of pain and suffering, whether through illness or personal crisis. Thus, it shows a calling or a gift.

This person feels summoned by spirituality and undergoes a long preparation, during which he learns about healing through the elements of Nature and other medicinal procedures.

The shaman also understands the methods necessary to reach trance states and means of defending against any energy considered negative.

In Brazilian indigenous culture, the pajé performs the function of the shaman, and the practices are the same, with minor cultural variations. The pajé deeply knows the human essence, both in the psychic and emotional aspect, as well as in the physical and spiritual.

In Brazil, there is a tradition known as pajelança, in which musical instruments characteristic of our country are usually used, such as maracas, drums, among others. Healing techniques and spiritual communications are also present in these rituals.

Crystals in Shamanism

We know that science proves that crystals are the best conductors, receivers and energy amplifiers, so they are used for healing, meditation, energizing environments and people. Learn how to use crystals in everyday life here.

Both crystals and other minerals are used in shamanism, as they are natural ways to help spiritual growth and bring positive energy to places and people.

Therefore, it is extremely important that the heart and intuition are always present when working with crystals.

The simple contemplation of a Quartz crystal or from an ancient rock already transmits energy and takes us to other dimensions of perception. Thus, we penetrate more clearly and deeply into our inner world. The only rule for the perfect functioning of a crystal is our clear intention.

Power Animals in Shamanism

Within shamanism, there are several forms of contact with the spiritual plane, such as the connection with the power animal or spirit animal, which is the representation of a spirit guide.

Power animals appear to endorse what you are experiencing or to warn about the necessary change that we must make in our lives.

It is believed that you do not choose the animal, but that it chooses you! Learn more here about the importance of discovering your Power Animal.

According to shamanism, the animal is there to provide a person with guidance, in the form of advice, protection, purification, power or wisdom.

Whenever you feel that you need to develop some quality, talent or virtue or power in yourself, you can call on these guardians according to your need at the moment.

If you want, take the test here and find out which Power Animal spirit you need right now!

Meet some of the Power Animals of Shamanism:

Snake: he has an impressive sensitivity, in addition to having his body almost completely in contact with the earth at all times. He has the gift of transformation (skin change), right on target, administering his poison and setting limits.Wolf: represents the master, the one who teaches. The wolf has a strong relationship with the collective, with the pack itself. At the same time, he has a solitary aspect, howling to the Moon (the emotions, the feminine, the other dimensions), with whom he will learn in order to be able to share with the group.Horse: strength and capacity for work, speed, virility and loyalty. Owl: the depth, the occult, the unconscious. The owl is also related to the teacher, Knowledge (occult) and Wisdom.Dolphin: it has the power and magic to channel what the other is feeling. It brings joy, intelligence, balance, ability to dive internally bringing these contents to the outside in a light way.Lion: symbolizes the Sun, the expansion of Light, strength, beauty, power, justice and leadership.Butterfly: symbolizes transformation, beauty, lightness, radical change in life, full expression of potential and beauty and magic.Eagle: she is the great messenger, she informs us of what is on the way, as she has the gift of vision, leaving us prepared for what will come.

Power Plants

Plants are part of the web of life and have always helped humanity in countless ways, from food to medicine. Some serve to balance the environment and ourselves, others have healing properties.

You can access the energy properties of plants through the use of teas, baths, steaming, smoking or even connecting directly to the plant.

already the power plantsalso called master plants, are used within some shamanic ceremonies.

When used with guidance, they work as instruments for expanding consciousness, as we can access previously unconscious contents or even interact with the spiritual dimension.

Power plants are good tools in the search for self-knowledge and connection with spirituality.

All plants used in the shamanic environment have a medicinal function and are considered sacred. Indeed, for shamanism, every form of life is sacred and must be honored.

The most known and used power plants in shamanism are:

Tobacco, as long as there are no chemical additives, including cigarette addiction, it is not acceptedChacrona and the Jagube, What makes up AyahuascaPeyote, which is a cactus native to Central AmericaWachuma or San Pedro, a cactus native to the Andes region and is used for healing and vision experiences, as well as Ayahuasca and PeyoteJurema, also known as black juremawhich is made from the root of this tree, is traditionally used for medicinal purposes and in religious ceremonies.

Shamanic Tarot

The Shamanic Therapeutic Tarot unites the spirit of traditional tarot and the wisdom of the Native Peoples.

For many generations of American tribes, shamans have used the Shamanic Tarot on the Medicine Wheel, with the function of bringing healing in four aspects: spiritual, emotional, mental and physical.

It encompasses all these dimensions of our Being and makes us see things from a deeper angle. It is a tool that works as a guide, bringing clarity on the paths to follow.

The Shamanic Tarot helps us to perceive our own Self in any situation, revealing ways of dealing with problems with more lightness and harmony.

Shamanic Reiki

Shamanic Reiki is considered a complete therapy, as it combines the divine energy of Reiki (male energy) with the energy of the Earth (female energy).

As well as the Traditional Reiki (understand all about it here)energy is sent through the imposition of a therapist’s hands, which is just a channel for love to flow.

Reikian energy acts on the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual bodies, promoting well-being, relaxation, balance of the chakras and releasing issues from these planes.

Shamanic Reiki works with the energy of plants, animals, stones and all subtle nature. After the energy application, the symbols brought by the subtle field are presented to the person assisted, allowing an expansion of their inner gaze.​

Understand here how Shamanic Reiki can be used for healthhelping to fight diseases.

Benefits of Shamanic Reiki:​

Deep relaxation Decreased Stress and Anxiety Pain relief Chakra balance Increased immunity Mental clarity and decision making Harmonization in general Release of toxins ​

The Shamanic Universe is full of profound symbolism, with the intention of harmonizing and enriching our lives.

How about putting some of these teachings into practice?