What is modern shamanism? In what ways does it differ from the traditional approach?
When we talk about modern shamanism, it usually means shamanism as practiced in Western culture, something along the lines of New Age spirituality, which is on the rise.
It’s a more diverse, open-minded, and inclusive approach to shamanism, blending various shamanic studies, teachings, practices, and ceremonies to create a unique experience.
Modern shamanism is more suited to the contemporary world we live in.
And it’s accessible to everyone to explore and, if they desire, even become a shaman.
But what are the nuances of modern shamanism, though?
Here’s everything you need to know – and more.
What Is Modern Shamanism?
Well, it’s essential to establish the groundwork first. And that’s what Michael Harner believed when he wrote the book The Way of the Shaman: A Guide to Power and Healing.
This book is believed to be the birthplace of modern shamanism – and it’s a must-read for anyone looking to learn more about New Age spirituality and alternative healing practices.
Even though the modern world demands appropriation – it’s equally important to respect the shamanic traditions and study indigenous cultures to understand the modern shaman.
Therefore, modern shamanism is a diverse blend of various cultural backgrounds.
Think of it as a collage that weaves together ancient wisdom to create something new.
Nowadays, anyone can become a New Age shaman – but what does that mean, exactly?
Is there a spiritual practice exclusive to modern shamanic practitioners?
Or is it just, as many believe, more of the same?
Well, for one, it’s a blend, a sort of mixture of different shamanic philosophies. That in and of itself makes it unique. Unlike some cultures, modern shamanism is open to everyone.
Anyone can explore modern shamanism without sacrificing too much.
How far along you want to take it – that’s up to you.
Maybe you want to become a shaman and rise to a higher state of consciousness.
Perhaps you want to rediscover your spiritual self.
Either way, exploring modern shamanism can positively affect your life.
How Does Modern Shamanism Differ?
Today, being a traditional shaman reshapes your life from its very foundations.
You let go of everything you know to embrace the core of shamanism.
And that’s assuming you can – because not everyone can become a traditional shaman.
Sometimes, it’s passed down and not something you can choose to become. Instead, spiritual forces make that decision. So, in comes the inclusive modern-day shaman.
That’s the fundamental difference between the past and present.
If you want to learn how modern shamanism compares to other shamanic approaches, you can expand your knowledge and learn about their various cultures and practices right here:
But there are more differences to explore. A modern shamanic practitioner draws inspiration from traditional sources, creating a more eclectic approach to spirituality.
Some modern shamans use the power of technology to achieve their goals, reaching out and offering guidance via online communication – a practice traditionally unconventional.
In modern shamanism, the focus is more intertwined with the individual.
It’s a path that anyone can take to expand their self-knowledge through spiritual means.
A modern-day shaman can take on numerous paths to help people spiritually.
For example, they can embrace the role of a healer. Or help others find their spiritual selves by thinning the veil between the material and the spiritual. Or they can offer advice.
It’s the integration in society that sets modern shamanism apart. Why? Modern shamans live an urban lifestyle, navigating the chaos by adhering to ancient shamanic principles.
At first glance, you may not even notice them because they’re just like any of us.
But their inner spiritual workings are quick to rise to the surface.
How to Become a Modern-Day Shaman
Does shamanism captivate you? Do you want to learn how to become a shaman?
Do you wish to enter higher, altered states of mind and achieve spiritual enlightenment?
Well, it’s time to explore how you can become a shaman in today’s world.
Becoming a modern-day shaman is less challenging compared to the rigorous journey of becoming a traditional shaman, if possible to begin with, within a specific cultural context.
But where do you even start? Here’s everything you need to know.
1 • Reconnecting With Nature
Escaping the bustling city and spending time outdoors – in nature – is a first step.
Connecting with nature is a crucial aspect of becoming a shaman in today’s society.
The natural world teaches lessons that are essential to a shaman. Spending time outdoors teaches balance and how to achieve it. You perceive the oneness everywhere around you.
When you leave the noise and chaos of a lively city behind, you rediscover yourself.
You immerse yourself in energy and attune yourself to a higher frequency, elevating your vibrations to achieve contact with the spiritual world and broaden your intuitive insight.
Nature is sacred to shamans – whether modern or traditional.
Observing it leads to continuous growth in both planes of existence.
The benefits are numerous, especially for people embarking on their shamanic journey.
After all, establishing balance and harmony is necessary before you can become a shaman. What better way to accomplish that than by being in nature and letting it heal your soul?
Cleanse and rejuvenate your energy to take the next step forward into shamanism.
2 • Engage in Spiritual Practices
Embracing spirituality is practically synonymous with becoming a shaman.
Practicing spirituality is a must when you embark on this journey.
What kind of practices should you devote your time to, though?
The perfect place to start is with yoga and meditation.
Yoga and meditation are life-transformative tools for finding balance. Practicing them daily leads to a heightened sense of awareness, helping you attune to the subtle energies.
You learn to be grounded, more centered in the present moment – the now.
On top of that, doing yoga a few times a week contributes to physical health.
While these practices nourish the shamanic path – they also provide other benefits.
Yoga and meditation allow you to remain calm amidst the chaos of everyday life.
Becoming a shaman in the modern world takes a lot of work and effort – but it’s worth it. The lessons you learn as you grow your perspective substantially elevate your vibrations.
Engage in self-reflective exercises and deepen your self-knowledge.
Being a shaman demands a profound understanding of oneself.
The more self-knowledge you attain, the more progress you make.
Learn to listen to your intuition – the voice within. It guides you in crucial moments and provides insight otherwise unobtainable. Trust it. Let your inner wisdom be a compass.
Connect with the other side by enriching your mind with shamanic knowledge.
Learn about cultures, rituals, practices, and ceremonies.
You have to learn about it before applying it to your everyday life.
3 • Embrace a Holistic Lifestyle
What is holism? And why is the foundation of shamanic teachings?
Holism recognizes the interconnected nature of the world – but not just the world.
Shamans must embrace a holistic approach to spirituality and healing, treating the whole rather than the separate parts. How and in what way does this affect your day-to-day life?
Incorporating holism into your life results in balance and harmony.
You begin to perceive the interconnected nature of the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. When one aspect suffers, all suffer. So, these parts must be equally synergized.
If you’re physically sick or unwell, every other aspect of your being suffers.
Regular exercise isn’t just for strength and flexibility – but for all-encompassing wellness.
Likewise, keeping the mind sharp through meditation or breathwork ensures clarity, resilience, and attunement. Being clear-headed allows you to take better care of yourself.
A holistic approach to life considers everything – even sleep patterns.
Balance must prevail. Otherwise, you risk a cascade of chaos and disharmony.
Start perceiving yourself as one with the world, an inseparable part of it.
Recognize how nourishing nature nourishes you.
Understand how doing one thing correctly means doing everything right.
A holistic approach to self-improvement ensures victory on every front.
And it’s not just you who benefits – but the people around you, too.
You become a conduit for shamanic healing and otherworldly insights through holism.
4 • Mastering Shamanic Gifts and Talents
With work and practice, you unleash your potential and discover new abilities.
Of course, refining your gifts and talents takes precedence to unlock a higher dimension – to become the best shaman you can be. Each step in the right direction makes a difference.
What abilities should you master? Well, focus on that which you excel at.
Not all shamans share similar predispositions. Some are better at divination. Others do magic with energy work. Some are natural healers. Find your strength and focus on it.
Maybe you have a knack for getting access to the spirit world.
Whatever it is – see how far your ability goes. Elevate it to an unparalleled level.
However, being proficient in one talent goes hand-in-hand with other abilities. The more you expand your skill set, the more things you can do. The more you can influence people.
And that’s what being a shaman in today’s world is all about – but we’ll get to that.
Keep working on your abilities and improving with each passing day.
No matter the progress you make – there’s always room for improvement.
Shamanism is a vast landscape to explore, and there’s always something new to learn.
From shamanic healing to accessing the spirit world – the options are endless.
As a shaman in today’s society, it’s your responsibility to influence others. How do you do that? You apply what you have learned to heal, guide, and change other people’s lives.
And that’s the final evolution of a modern-day shaman.
5 • Be a Positive Force in the World
Being a shaman in today’s era demands a compassionate, open-hearted approach.
Open your arms to embrace all living beings, creating a safe space for love and growth.
You can alter your aura and radiate positive energy through shamanic practices while living a balanced, harmonious life. You can become a beacon of light for those in need.
Every day presents countless new opportunities to use your knowledge for good.
Use what you have learned to offer support and healing whenever necessary.
But it’s not just a responsibility – it’s a privilege.
You get to help others and enrich your soul by doing it.
Everything you have worked hard to learn – share it. Share wisdom and insights gained through shamanic practice to elevate people and intensify their spiritual vibrations.
Remember when you were just getting started? How much would it have meant to have someone guide you? Now, you have that ability. Help others as you would help yourself.
You can’t change the whole world, but every act of kindness, big or small, sends waves of positive energy throughout the universe, creating a better, more harmonious existence.
Keep learning about traditional shamanic practices to build a bridge from the past to the present. Today’s shamans have the luxury of blending diverse rituals and cultures into one.
Why Shamanism Is Important Today
We live chaotic lives. It’s a rush hour from morning to midnight. Days are often a blur.
Being a shaman today, what good is it? Why does spirituality matter now more than ever?
When you’re spiritually open-minded, you embrace tools to reduce stress. You learn how to handle stress. You transform your mind into a fortress with the practice of meditation.
And this isn’t just crucial for shamans – but everyone.
There’s an inner strength within, just waiting to be found. Tap into it. Unleash it.
We live in uncertain times. So, it’s essential to remain grounded and centered.
Shamanic culture reveals a path to stability amid the chaos of daily routines.
More than that – embracing spirituality helps you find purpose in a purposeless world.
This makes it easy to get up in the morning and make coffee.
You don’t have to be a shaman. But sprinkle a little spirituality into your life – and watch it change into something extraordinary. Don’t let today’s society obstruct your vision.
In Conclusion
Modern shamanism leads to a healthier, spiritually beneficial lifestyle.
Shamanic principles can uplift your energy and elevate your vibrations.
Incorporating them into your life can change it from the ground up.
The path of a shaman isn’t for everyone – but shamanic teachings are.
The more you learn about shamanism, the more you open your soul to growth.
You start living a more fulfilling life in the hustle and bustle of modern society.
Painting and writing – these are two passions that I have been perfecting for a decade. I’m passionate about exploring the connections between the stars and numbers. Through insightful articles you can learn how these ancient practices can offer guidance, clarity, and self-discovery.