Modern Uses of Shamanism - A Path to Spiritual Growth

Shamanism may be ancient, but it continues to evolve and adapt to the needs of modern people who are seeking spiritual growth and personal transformation. In this final blog of the cluster, we look at how practicing shamanic principles and connecting to the natural world can enhance self awareness, spiritual growth and boost our physical and mental health. 

Nature Connection

Spending time in nature is proven to reduce anxiety and depression, helps us develop meaningful human relationships and provide spiritual fulfillment. Nature has a wide definition. It can mean green spaces such as forests and parks, rivers, being by the sea or spending time in your garden or tending to a window box. Watching a nature documentary or looking at pictures of nature is also good for our spiritual and mental health. How amazing is that? 

We can connect into the cycles of nature in many ways. My suggestion is to not run with too many things all at once, to prevent overwhelm. Here are some examples of how you can tune in:

Working with the lunar phases.  I’d highly recommend the book Lunar Living by Kirsty Gallagher if you wish to learn more about living with awareness of the moon's cycles.

If you menstruate, perhaps it’s tracking your monthly cycle and then intuitively working with movement practices that complement your energy levels and emotions at different times. 

The seasons can also guide us on how to live in tandem with nature and I cover this in depth at my monthly astrology yoga workshops.

If you love food, foraging or eating seasonal vegetables is a great way to connect. I’d highly recommend the veg boxes from locavore if you want to eat seasonal produce. 

Intention Setting

Setting intentions helps us to fulfill our goals around personal development, live with purpose and align with our values. There is a purpose for everything and living this way can help with personal and spiritual growth. Examples of this are setting intentions during the new moon, at the beginning of your yoga practice, shamanic journeying or seasonal rituals for self care. 

Awareness of Energy

Being aware of your own energy and how it may impact on others is so important. Everything is connected through energy and it’s beneficial when we seek to maintain balance and harmony in our own energy and the world around us. This can be done through a various practices such as yoga, shamanic healing, reiki, meditation, tai chi and so much more. 

Community

Building supportive relationships and connections with others is vital for our emotional health and well being and it can reduce feelings of stress and isolation. Community is central to human experience and gives us a sense of belonging. This can be done by joining local groups, classes or circles. 

These are just some examples of a shamanic way of living. There is one thing for certain, living spiritually encourages us to have better relationships with ourselves, others and the natural world.