Q: How do people practise shamanism today?
A: There isn’t just one way to practise shamanism, because it exists across so many different cultures, each with its own tools, stories and ways of connecting with the spirit world. What we often call “core shamanism” refers to the shared elements found in many of these traditions, like journeying into non-ordinary reality, working with spirit guides or using rhythm and song to shift into an altered state of consciousness.
In some cultures, the main tool is drumming, which helps people enter a deep meditative or trance-like state to access guidance and healing. Others use plant medicines or sacred songs such as icaros in South America, as part of their ceremonies. In places like Peru, for example, people take part in ayahuasca ceremonies or follow healing plant diets, often guided by experienced shamans while staying in the jungle.
But shamanic practice isn’t limited to traditional settings. In a more modern context, it can be a deeply personal spiritual path, one that opens awareness, reconnects you with nature, and brings you closer to your authentic, untamed self. People might gather in circles to drum together, use breath and movement to shift their state, or hold ceremonies guided by a shamanic practitioner. Some practise alone, journeying with the help of a drum or a drum recording, or simply sitting quietly in nature.
What unites all of this is the intention: to step beyond the surface of ordinary life, connect with Spirit, and receive insight, healing or direction.
Q: What’s the role of nature in shamanic work?
A: Nature is our home, and shamanic practice helps us remember that. It’s not just a park, a forest or a mountain we visit to escape the noise of the city or the stress of everyday life. It’s where we truly belong. In shamanism, nature isn’t seen as something separate; it’s family.
We learn to relate to the trees, the rivers, the animals, even the tiniest stones, as living beings with their own wisdom and energy. There’s the protective energy of father sky, the unconditional love of mother earth. These guide us, support us and often speak to us in subtle, surprising ways.
Modern life has pulled many of us away from this connection, but the magic, love and ancient wisdom of the natural world are still there, waiting. Nature becomes a teacher, simply through observation and presence. In some traditions, shamans even shapeshift – meaning they connect so deeply with an animal’s energy that they begin to embody its qualities and power.
The beautiful thing is, you don’t have to be a shaman to experience that kind of connection. Shamanism simply offers a doorway into a deeper relationship with the world around us. Nature helps us slow down, quiet the constant activity of the mind, and reconnect with our soul. In a very real way, it helps us come home to ourselves.
…to be continued…