Shamanism is one of the oldest spiritual traditions in the world, with evidence of shamanic practices dating back tens of thousands of years. Despite cultural differences, shamanism has appeared in every inhabited continent, reflecting a universal human connection to the unseen world, nature, and healing.
But what exactly is shamanism, and how has it evolved across time and cultures?
What is Shamanism?
At its core, shamanism is a spiritual practice based on direct experience, rather than dogma or religious texts. Shamans act as bridges between the physical and spiritual realms, using altered states of consciousness to communicate with spirits, ancestors, and natural forces. Their role often includes:
🔥 Healing individuals and communities
🌿 Working with plant and animal allies
🌌 Journeying to spirit worlds for guidance
🎶 Using drumming, chanting, and dance to enter trance states
While modern spirituality has adapted shamanic techniques, traditional shamanism remains deeply rooted in community, nature, and the oral transmission of wisdom.
Shamanic Traditions Around the World
Shamanism isn’t confined to one culture—it has manifested in different ways across the globe, showing both unique expressions and shared themes.
🌏 Siberian & Mongolian Shamanism – The term “shaman” originates from the Evenki people of Siberia. Their practices involve drumming, trance journeying, and communication with spirits to restore balance in individuals and communities.
🌿 Indigenous American Traditions – Many Indigenous cultures across North and South America have rich shamanic practices, from vision quests and sweat lodges to plant medicine ceremonies like Ayahuasca and Peyote.
🦅 Celtic & Norse Shamanism – Ancient European traditions included seers, druids, and volvas who acted as intermediaries between the physical and spiritual realms, using runes, herbal knowledge, and ritual practices.
🐍 Amazonian & Andean Shamanism – In the Amazon, shamans work closely with plant spirits and master teachers like Ayahuasca, while Andean shamans honour Pachamama (Mother Earth) through offerings and energy work.
🌊 African & Oceanic Shamanism – Many African and Polynesian cultures practice ancestor veneration, trance dance, and divination to maintain harmony between humans and the spirit world.
Despite their differences, all of these traditions share core elements: connection with nature, altered states of consciousness, and the role of the shaman as a healer and guide.
Why Shamanism Resonates Today
Shamanism speaks to something ancient within us—a deep, intuitive knowing that we are interconnected with all of life.
In an era where people feel disconnected from nature, community, and their inner selves, shamanic practices offer a path back to wholeness. Whether through journeying, ritual, or simply learning to listen to the wisdom of the Earth, shamanism provides a framework for spiritual growth that is both practical and profound.
Our Shamanic Training Programme reconnects you with these ancient traditions, blending experiential learning with personal exploration. Whether you feel drawn to healing, energy work, or simply deepening your connection to nature, shamanism offers a path as old as time itself. Learn more here.