Natural Living

NH’s Talking About: Shamanic Journeying

Discover the relationship between shamanism and your past life…

What shapes us into who we are? Perhaps it’s our grandparents, a mentor or our friends. In search of some answers, you may find yourself trawling through the events that have happened in your life so far. However, could a past life hold the key to discovering your true self? “According to shamanisim beliefs,” says Sarah Negus, author of Modern Day Shaman: Find A Deeper Connection With Life (£14.99, Serapis Bey Publishing), “shamanic journeying gives you the ability to enter an altered state of consciousness and access alternate perceptions, where it is said you mentally reconnect with your past lives.”

Shamanic journeying is not something usually practised by a beginner. So, to gain a deeper understanding, Sarah suggests finding an experienced guide; someone who is initiated in shamanic energy, who knows how to travel energetically with a clear vision. “It’s important you find someone you resonate with, so do your research” explains Sarah. For example, a traditional shaman will use a drum or rattle to induce a deep, dreamlike state. While Sarah, a modern day shaman, uses dialogue, intention and an energetic process. Once you’ve discovered your preferred method, you can move towards unlocking your higher potential.

The main benefit of shamanic journeying is that it examines the subconscious and allows you to overcome limiting beliefs, change unhelpful thought patterns, and find a more positive perspective on life. “Over time, you will experience enhanced health and wellbeing, as well as attract serendipitous situations that help you live a happier life,” says Sarah.

As shamanic journeying takes you into your subconscious, it possesses incredible healing powers. “The process of journeying means that you must ground and centre your energy and shift into a trance,” explains Sarah. “These things alone raise your energetic vibration.” In Sarah’s experience, this is a very healing and restorative experience that can calm your body, relax your mind and soothe your soul.

When you eventually learn how to enter into a deep inner state, you will feel more joy and appreciation for life. However, if you’re finding it a challenge, follow Sarah’s five handy tips to help you along your journey: set a heartfelt clear intention in terms of what you want the journey to help you with. Connect to the rhythm of your breath in your body and become your own internal observer – allow your mind’s eye to watch without judgement. Accept the symbolism that your higher mind shows you – it will be unique to you and will have information that will help you live as your best self. Journal the experience. This grounds the encounter and helps to manifest the changes you observed.