Today, I’m talking to you about shamanism, a huge topic that has been with humanity since the very beginning and that I care deeply about: its origins, what it is, and how it’s learned.
The essentials
- Shamanism was born in the Siberian steppes: it is the world’s first spirituality and the world’s first medicine.
- Through trance, the shaman makes contact with invisible worlds and spirits.
- It’s an eco-minded spirituality, rooted in respect for nature and gratitude.
- It’s learned mainly through experience, over the course of shamanic journeys.
- No one can proclaim themselves a shaman.
The origins of shamanism
Shamanism was born in the Siberian steppes, its cradle. Born with humanity, it is the world’s first spirituality and the world’s first medicine. It’s found all over the globe; in France, for example, in Celtic shamanism (Druidry).
Its date of origin is impossible to determine, but Paleolithic animal paintings and engravings may already have been shamanic in origin, created by a kind of priest in trance during ceremonies.
In Europe, from the Middle Ages onward, the Church imposed its religious beliefs and led a witch hunt that would last until the 18th century. Only afterward would shamanic practices experience a slow revival.
Shamanic trance
During trance, the shaman makes contact with the invisible worlds and communicates with spirits to get answers, help with healing, and the transmission of knowledge: the possibilities are endless. Each journey is unique and enriching.
Depending on the culture, trance is reached through substances, as in some tropical countries, or through the repetitive sound of the drum and the rattle, as in Europe.
An eco-minded spirituality
Someone who follows the shamanic path lives in communion with nature. They respect Mother Earth and Father Sky, as well as all species and all spirits connected to the Great Spirit, the creator. They feel gratitude for everything the Earth offers them, consume reasonably, and give thanks for every offering. That’s why we also say “shamanist”: following the shamanic path doesn’t make you a shaman.
How do you learn shamanism?
Shamanism is learned very little through theory: it’s through experience that it’s discovered and integrated. One expression describes it perfectly:
To know if the water in a bowl is hot or cold, you must put your finger in it… There’s no point in discussing it.
Zen koan
The shaman guides the apprentice, but learning happens mainly through shamanic journeys. Each practice and each ritual is unique to each shaman: the same ritual won’t work for two shamans. Everything is passed on to them by the spirits during their journeys.
Can you call yourself a shaman?
No one can proclaim themselves a shaman. They must be chosen by the spirits and by their community, and be named shaman to carry the title. They even say that a shaman who boasts about their gifts loses them immediately. So the shaman is humble: they speak little, they act.
Frequently asked questions
Where was shamanism born?
In the steppes of Siberia, considered its cradle. Since then, it has been present on every continent.
What’s the difference between a shaman and a shamanist?
A shamanist follows the shamanic path. A shaman, on the other hand, is chosen by the spirits and named by their community.
To find out how to live this practice today, read my article on urban shamanism. And you—what’s your take on this ancestral path?
If this topic resonates with you, discover the Soul Sanctuary retreat, a week blending handpan, shamanic practices, presence, and introspection.
We are One. One love.
