New To Shamanism?
Shamanism is the world’s oldest spiritual tradition. It has been practiced by indigenous peoples around the world for centuries. While each indigenous culture has its own unique practices and stories connected to the people and place from which they emerge, many western scholars have noticed underlying similarities across cultures.
Here we have compiled a collection of foundational resources for people new to shamanism. If you would like to learn more we encourage you to become a member and gain full access to our content library.
Dr. Mary Gold
A Word from the Editors Occasionally we receive an article recounting a personal journey or a healing experience which the author had that we believe our readers will benefit from, especially those who are new to shamanism. This current article is one of those. It...
Accepting our Spiritual Allies
In shamanic practices, we encounter and work with a variety of spiritual allies. Developing relations with these allies is not only key, there is also a communion of respect and devotion that is entwined into that relationship. Our spiritual allies become personal...
Advice from Elders
The Society for Shamanic Practice asked a few "Shamanic Elders”—those who have walked the path for some time—to share their thoughts on things they wished they had learned earlier on the path. In no particular order, here is some "advice from elders." Laurie Schmidt:...
Changing Your Story
We all have parts of our story that we wish to change. Consider your story to be a collection of experiences. What parts of your story would you like to change and what can you do about it, now? Lena assists us in clearing some of the threads of our tapestry,...
Book Review of The Energetic Dimension by Ann M. Drake
As I begin to write this review of Ann Drake's excellent new book The Energetic Dimension, Americans are trying to make sense of the two most recent shootings over the weekend in El Paso, Texas, and Dayton, Ohio, which together left 31 people dead and many more...
Interrelationship As the Foundation for Shamanism and Life
Much is written about the mystical and spiritual dimensions of shamanism, including how to work with the Elements, the nature of shamanic journeying, and the ins and outs of soul-level healing. However, what can get lost in the mix is the perspective underpinning all...
Expanding the Unique Self
Whether new to the path or experienced, Eva Black Tail Swan talks with Dr. Steven Farmer about the importance of expanding the unique self through support and the willingness to receive. As equals we stand carrying our own unique medicine, contributing to the way the...
Authentic Self, Authentic Shaman
We live in a time when authentic shamanic work is deeply needed. But "authenticity" has been so grossly overused, it doesn’t mean much anymore. You do not search for authenticity. Rather, your life is meant to be an expression of your authentic self. The first work...
Retrieving Your Power Animal
Power Animals are spirit guides in animal form who provide protection, guidance, and healing. Journey with Dr. Steven Farmer as he leads you towards discovering and retrieving your power animal....
The Popularity of Ayahuasca and Other Plant Medicines
Vegetalisa is a term used to refer to a practice of mestizo shamanism in the Peruvian Amazon in which the shamans — known as vegetalistas — are said to gain their knowledge and power to cure from the vegetales, or plants of the region. Dr. Steven Farmer interviews...
What You Should Know About Taking Ayahuasca
Ayahuasca: A Brief Helpful Manual Currently tens of thousands of people are exploring the visionary medicine known as ayahuasca, huasca, yaje, (and many other names) both in South America and around the world. Many seek the experience out of curiosity and sometimes...
Shamans, Practitioners and the Shamanic Path
What is the difference between a shaman, a shamanic practitioner and someone walking a shamanic path? When is it appropriate to claim the title of shaman vs shamanic practitioner? Through these questions this audio explores how we can authentically integrate shamanic...
Want to learn more?
The Society for Shamanic Practice is a modern day organization that supports those who aspire to follow a shamanic path by providing information from experts in the field through professional journal articles, audios, seasonal medicine wheel ceremonies, and opportunities to participate and learn about shamanic practices through our community forum, and annual member events. Consider becoming a member if you are interested in joining our community and enriching your shamanic practice.