A Primer for Shamanic Journey Work

“There are more things in heaven and Earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in your philosophy.” — Hamlet, William Shakespeare

These words are equally true today as they were when Shakespeare put them on paper. Quantum physics is beginning to demonstrate that the shaman’s have known exactly what they were doing and talking about, thousands of years ago. We are all energy. And, there are unlimited worlds, or dimensions. The medicine person, or shaman, works with the essence, or energy.  And he or she navigates in these other realms to maintain the well-being of their community.

In the same way that we can all be our own doctors, for basic things, we can also be our own shaman. We can all learn some basic skills that develop our spiritual ability, learning and awareness. We can learn how to navigate in the invisible realms, but it is important to know what we are doing, before taking that journey.

One of the traditional definitions of a shaman is someone who can “get there” without the use of external stimulants, derived from the use of plants. Most of the shamans I know that use plants in their work do not NEED them to reach those planes. The plants are a tool, but do not replace or create the skill the medicine person possesses and develops. The shaman draws on the help of those beings and planes. Over Time and continued experience with the different planes and medicines a special relationship is cultivated. Most medicine people work with a particular medium, rather than any or all of the various offerings. This is because that realm of spirit support teaches him or her how to accomplish the necessary healing and teaching goals. Also, in traditional cultures, healers do not have the global reach and access of the modern physical world. It is imperative to work with the plants and energies in your local environment. But all of the Medicine in the entire world will not and cannot make a healer more potent or effective than his or her inherent abilities.

This is not to say that the plants do not have powerful medicine. They are potent helpers. As such, they must be approached with respect and integrity. When you seek the assistance of someone who is wiser and more competent than you are, you treat them with respect. You demonstrate your commitment and serious intent. This is why recreational drug use is so detrimental. It is like having a keg party at someone’s house, without their permission. It is highly disrespectful and does not foster healthy partnership. Even indiscriminate, well-intentioned use can muddy up the invisible-water, for those of us who are working with these realms and beings.

Think of the invisible worlds as people and homes. Treat them as you would a neighbor- you would not walk in uninvited to someone’s home. That is what people do when they use drugs recreationally. Etiquette and integrity and respect are key. If wanting to do work with the plant medicines, be sure to work with someone who is in absolute integrity- and there are MANY professionals, who are not truly in their integrity. Also, be prepared to receive what you’re going to get.

The important thing is to understand that it is a very BIG universe, both visible and invisible. It is imperative to know the landscape. You would not wander around in a strange city alone. It is all too easy to wander around, being thrilled by the novelty and experience. But while being inundated with information, the feet can easily turn a corner and quickly be in unsafe territory. If we do not fully KNOW the landscape, we do not see or hear the telltale markers that warn us that we may be getting into trouble. In a city, you might turn a corner and wander into the middle of gang territory and turf warfare. Swimming, there can be currents and riptides. The metaphors for sudden and unseen danger are endless, and the concept should be respected, especially in the invisible worlds.

This is particularly true wandering around unescorted. Your energy body possesses an immune system, just like the physical body does. When we do drugs, and enter into altered states of consciousness, we are shutting off that natural immune system. Essentially the altered state can be like walking into an infectious diseases ward. The worst part is that the individual does not KNOW they have picked up germs, or energetic hitch-hikers. The things we pick up can wreak havoc in our life, long after the trip is over.

In this regard, it is essential to work with plant medicines with absolute respect. Always work in ceremony, in sacred space, and have someone who “holds sacred space.” Think of this as a designated driver. Make sure they are a good driver! Additionally, develop your OWN preliminary support. Learn to do journey work, call in your guides and teachers- that you are sure you can rely on and trust. Bring them with you on your medicine journey, and if they arrive randomly, TRUST their warnings and guidance.

The universe is vast, and waits for us to grow wiser and discover all of the secrets and mysteries. Working with plant medicines is one way to explore and learn and grow. But it should be approached with integrity and respect. When used in this manner, the power that is unleashed is astonishing and presents an incredible journey that can change the course of your life.

 

 

I am an Education Specialist, Health Coach and Author. I work with aspects of the teachings I have learned from Andean shamanic and cosmology, to health, nutrition and education.  Everything is energy. Energy must flow. Like water, when it does not flow, it stagnates and is not healthy. These techniques help your life to flow. I have been initiated into many of the ancient lineages and learned ceremonies, rites of passage and healing techniques.  I have worked as a healer and done workshops and taught some of these aspects – passing the teachings on.

Author of:
Dancing in Your Bubble : ancient teaching, modern healing
Natural Support for Alzheimer’s
Getting a Handle on Happy : find and fix causes of stress and depression
The Naturally Smarter Kid : a parent’s guide to helping kids succeed in school and life
Cafe of the Hungry Ghosts : behind the veil of ordinary – a paranormal-ish fiction book

http://BeingHerd.com
http://repairalz.com