What is shamanism? Learn more about this spiritual culture

To understand what is shamanism is easy. We can define it as a belief that draws attention and that generates many doubts because it is a set of practices that are uncommon in relation to other religions. Some customs such as ethnomedical, magical, religious and philosophical were done by indigenous peoples in ancient times and are still performed today.

People look for shamanism, especially when they are looking for healing, trance, transmutation and contact between bodies and spirits of shamans, mythical beings, animals and the dead. It is important to mention that, as in the past, its faithful give great value to nature and what comes from it.

Better unraveling what shamanism is

Shamanism is a set of beliefs and habits that have an ancient philosophical basis, with followers all over the world. Here in Brazil, this religious practice can be known as benzedura and through indigenous tribes.

It is necessary to understand that there are several strands spread in different countries and all of them are legacies of ancient cultures, mostly by indigenous people of each region. Because of this, this spiritual culture does not have a place of origin or a right way to practice it.

This religious practice has as a pattern the rituals that use trance, the use of objects of nature, songs, places, sacred objects and also the use of animals or their fluid.

the shaman

To better understand what shamanism is, it is necessary to explore the shaman. He is a kind of spiritual and healing leader within this religious practice. He is also known for being a priest who goes into a trance during rituals, which is caused by chanting, dancing and drinking herbal teas.

In Brazil, this priest is known as a pajé and is responsible for the rituals. Within the tribe, it also brings protection, they have predictions coming from nature and also has the function of a doctor. He is regarded as a great expert on human nature, both physically and psychically.

Shamanic rituals and the use of herbs

Shamanic belief, regardless of which part of the world, is practiced in a similar way. Of course, there are rituals, which can change according to each region, but the use of fruits from nature is a rule, as it should not be restricted to herbs only.

Rituals are part of the explanation of what shamanism is and are done for various purposes such as healing, predictions and protection. In each of these cults, there may be the presence of all or just a few shamans. Herbs or animals, living or dead, can be used. It all depends on the type and purpose of the ritual.

It is common to use trance during this cult, as it is one of the pillars of shamanic culture and the greatest way of contacting the greater forces they believe in. However, depending on the region you are in, or even the purpose of the ritual, trance may not be used.

If you are researching what shamanism is, it is important to point out that it is a very comprehensive belief, this is precisely one of the definitions, the diversity of rituals and the ways to practice them.

Like to know more about what is shamanism? So read more about rituals and see some other customs to get rid of negative energies: