There are moments in life that leave us with deep and lasting wounds. How we choose to heal and move forward is up to us. There are many modalities and avenues to seek support and help, but the question is–which path is right for us? Should we turn to shamanic healing with its roots in spiritually-informed, ancient and contemporary practices, or should we rely on methods grounded in modern psychology?
After understanding the key differences between both methods, it’ll be easier for you to find the path that best suits you, allowing you to heal in a way that truly resonates with your needs.
Exploring the Meaning of ‘Shaman’
Respected spiritual guides, shamans help to link the physical, emotional and spiritual domains. They come from and carry great wisdom from every culture on the planet back through history and . By means of rituals, ceremonies, sacred songs and sound, shamanic healing, and spiritual journeying, shamans guide you back to harmony and healing. They help you become happier, healthier, and more fulfilled. As such, they support you in realizing your goals and purpose.
It is important to remember that every shaman has special skills and traditions that they follow depending on the culture they come from and the context they work in . In other words, each shaman’s philosophies and techniques can be very different. Ultimately, however, the goal is to help people, whether individuals and/or communities.
Roles of Shamans in Spiritual and Psychological Healing
Unlike Western models, shamanic methods of healing, counseling, and psychology stress closeness to the natural world as well the integration of body, mind, emotions, soul, and spirit. . Shamanic techniques call forth balance and harmony. Indeed, in shamanism, there is no difference between “mind” and “body.” This means that what we call “mental illness” in the westernized world is seen as having a spiritual component that must be addressed in order to truly bring a person into wholeness. Further, any imbalance in the individual is recognized as being dynamically interconnected with the person’s family, community, the world of spirits, and the cosmos at large.
The most common shamanic roles are healer and spiritual counselor.. Shamans’ roles vary, but among other skills, they may be able to predict and prevent illness or diagnose and treat it. Or they may work with imbalances in the energy body and the spiritual dimension of a person’s experience. While they may treat biological and psychological challenges, their worldview always returns to the metaphysical and spiritual causes and conditions.
Comparison of Therapeutic Techniques
While both shamanic healing and western therapies offer paths to healing trauma, stress and anxiety, , there are many differences in worldview and approach.
Approach to Healing
Shamanic healing holds that emotional and spiritual turmoil often is the source of physical illness. CThrough techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation, shamans help you find your way through the visible and invisible worlds. Some techniques include guiding journeys, performing energy work, and connecting with spirit guides.
The approach to healing in western therapy differs from shamanic healing in that the former uses techniques like talking through problems, changing behaviors and thought patterns, and establishing habits that help people deal with emotional and mental challenges. Often, the spiritual dimension of human experience is neglected or seen as less important to recovery. Shamanic healing does all of this and more–addressing not only change at the mental levels, but also at the soul and spiritual levels.
Techniques and Tools
Power animal retrieval, soul retrieval, energy clearing and cleansing, and shamanic journeying are among the methods used in shamanic healing—but they are not the only ones. Shamans may use drumming, chanting, and guided imagery to enable travels into the spirit world to seek guidance and healing energies from Nature and spiritual beings. Their tools can include feathers, crystals, and holy herbs.
Western therapy might employ cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which enables you to alter negative thought patterns or narrative therapy, in which you work with telling the stories of your life as a way to develop insight and mental-emotional shifts. . They can assist a person in remaining more present in the now as a way to overcome anxiety and stress. In another western approach adapted from Buddhist thought and practice, mindfulness therapies abound.
Shamanic healing does all this and more by working with every level and dimension of human experience–body, mind-emotions, soul, and spirit. It is a highly integrated and dynamic approach that acknowledges we are more than our intellect and cognition. Therefore, the therapeutic impact can be much deeper and more effective.
Focus on the Individual vs. Community
Although the personal journey is part of the focus of shamanic healing, a person is also seen within the context of the wider community, both human and non-human. An effort is made to not only come into harmony and balance within, but to also then recognize our interconnection with our immediate and extended family, our community, nation, and the planet. . Healing ceremonies may involve family and community members, thus deepening and enhancing relationships and interpersonal ties, as well as bringing healing to those attending. This approach allows them to grow personally while respecting these important relationships.
In contrast, western therapy more commonly emphasizes individuality. . Usually, one-on-one therapy sessions provide a private and safe environment where an individual discusses their ideas, feelings, and actions. Although western therapeutic approaches recognize that outside events might have an effect, the primary objective is on personal development.
Perception of the Mind, Body, and Spirit
Shamanic healing is effective for those who want to understand the mind-body-spirit connection. This energy medicine system understands how imbalances in one area can disrupt overall health. Shamans use energy work and shamanic journeying to guide you through your inner world. They aim to find the ripple on the surface that indicates deeper issues so you can get back on track and move ahead.
Finding a Therapist or Spiritual Mentor in Virginia, USA
For people who are interested in spirituality and natural healing, a shaman who can tune into every dimension of your human experience–body, mind, emotions, soul and spirit– is likely to be a good fit.
Rachel Mann, a gifted shaman and Spiritual Mentor in Virginia USA, offers a nurturing and transformative approach to healing. With her knowledge, she supports you in your spiritual journey and personal growth. You may also join her spiritual coaching and engaging classes, which will help you connect with your true self and find clarity on your path.
