What is a Shaman?

A shaman’s mesa, created with intention, serves as a sacred space where physical representations of the elements and directions come together to anchor our practices, support journeying, and deepen our connection with the unseen.

The word “shaman” has its origins in ancient Siberia and is often translated as “seer”. Over time, it has been used to describe the medicine men or women of various tribes. Many indigenous cultures across Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Australia have their own versions of this healing role.

What’s most amazing to me is how many similarities there are in the practices across all the tribes. It is due to these similarities that the term “shaman” can be applied to all of these healers.

Across the globe – long before the cultures had contact with each other – the shaman honored the four directions (North, East, South, West), called in the four elements (Air, Fire, Earth, Water), and recognized the living spirit in all things. Many shamans, especially in the Peruvian tradition, have a sacred altar that uses physical representations of the directions and elements. This altar is called a shaman's mesa. Additionally, shamans utilize journeying to visit the Three Realms: Lower, Middle, and Upper. 

The Lower Realm is where healing of past traumas occurs. In the Lower Realm you can encounter spirit guides and receive messages.

The Middle Realm exists in parallel to the current physical existence. Often there are images and archetypes representative of what’s happening in the physical world. Animals and ancestors can appear here.

The Upper Realm is where the higher self resides. Along with angels, archangels, and ascended masters your Higher Self can provide answers about your path. You can visit the Upper Realm to receive guidance about your current life iteration or learn about past lives.

There are many other aspects of shamanism, such as an emphasis on ceremony, astral projection (the ability to project one's spirit to another place and time), living in acceptance of what is, and reverence for the sacred in all things.

Shamanic practice is about integrating these aspects into daily life.

Feel like Sharing? Which aspect of shamanic practice resonates most with you?