Shamanism

Ancient spiritual practice accessing other realms for healing. At its core, shamanism works by creating specific conditions—whether through movement, breath, sound, intention, or combination thereof—that allow practitioners to access states of awareness, healing, or transformation not typically available in everyday consciousness. The mechanisms vary depending on the specific practice, but most forms of shamanism share common elements: focused attention, intentional engagement, and openness to experience. Scientific research increasingly supports what practitioners have known for generations—that these practices create measurable changes in brain activity, nervous system function, and overall wellbeing.

No prior experience is necessary to begin exploring shamanism. In fact, approaching the practice with "beginner's mind"—free from preconceptions—can be an advantage. Most shamanism teachers are skilled at working with newcomers and will provide all the guidance you need to participate meaningfully. That said, some advanced workshops or intensives may have prerequisites, so always check event descriptions. For your first experience, look for sessions labeled "introductory," "beginner-friendly," or "all levels welcome." Don't let lack of experience hold you back—every experienced practitioner was once a beginner.

The frequency that's right for you depends on your goals, schedule, and the specific form of shamanism you're practicing. Many people find that even a single session can provide noticeable benefits—reduced stress, improved mood, greater clarity. For sustained transformation, most teachers recommend regular practice. This might mean weekly group sessions supplemented by daily personal practice, monthly intensive workshops, or annual retreats. Research suggests that consistency matters more than duration—brief daily practice often yields better results than occasional long sessions. Start with what's sustainable for you and allow your practice to deepen naturally over time.

First-time experiences with shamanism vary depending on the specific format and facilitator, but generally you can expect a welcoming, judgment-free environment focused on authentic experience. Sessions typically begin with an introduction or grounding practice, followed by the main experience, and conclude with integration time. You'll likely be in a group setting, though the focus is on your individual inner journey. Facilitators usually offer modifications for different experience levels and physical abilities. Come prepared with comfortable clothing, water, and an open mind. It's completely normal to feel nervous before your first session—most practitioners remember their first experience fondly as the beginning of a meaningful journey.

While shamanism has roots in specific spiritual traditions, contemporary practice has evolved to welcome people of all backgrounds and beliefs. Many practitioners engage with shamanism as a secular wellness practice, finding value in its psychological and physical benefits without adopting any particular spiritual framework. Others embrace its traditional spiritual dimensions. Most teachers today present shamanism in ways that honor its origins while making it accessible to diverse participants. You don't need to adopt any particular beliefs to benefit from the practice—you're welcome to engage with it through whatever lens is meaningful to you.

Shamanism shares common ground with other shamanism & plant medicine practices while offering its own unique gifts. Within our glossary, you can explore 6 related terms that connect to shamanism, each offering different approaches to similar goals. What distinguishes shamanism is its particular combination of techniques, intentions, and effects. Many practitioners eventually explore multiple shamanism & plant medicine modalities, finding that different practices serve different needs or complement each other. There's no need to choose just one—the shamanism & plant medicine landscape is rich with options, and exploring different practices often deepens understanding of all of them.

Finding qualified shamanism facilitators is essential for a safe and meaningful experience. BrightStar's event platform features thousands of shamanism & plant medicine events, including shamanism offerings, from verified teachers across 70+ destinations worldwide. When evaluating teachers, look for training credentials, years of experience, and reviews from past participants. Don't hesitate to contact facilitators with questions before booking—reputable teachers welcome inquiries and are transparent about their training and approach. Local yoga studios, wellness centers, and retreat centers are also good sources for finding shamanism experiences in your area.

Both home practice and group events offer valuable dimensions of shamanism. Many aspects of the practice can be explored independently using books, online resources, or recorded sessions. Home practice allows for daily engagement and personal exploration on your own schedule. However, group experiences offer unique benefits: the energy of collective practice, the guidance of experienced teachers, the opportunity for real-time feedback, and the community connection. Most practitioners find that combining both approaches—personal practice supported by periodic group experiences—creates the richest foundation for growth. Start where you're comfortable and expand as your practice develops.