How to Heal the Mind Through Shamanism

According to the religion of shamanism, it is possible to heal struggles of the mind, such as anxiety, mental illness and even addiction, with shamanic healing. The practice of shamanism believes there are 2 worlds--the world we live in and the spirit world--and followers believe we must first heal the spirit in order to heal the mind.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet access
• Drums

Understand Shamanism

1. Decide on the mental health results you are hoping for by researching the history of shamanism. Begin at the Joseph Campbell Web site (see Resources below).

2. Investigate different types of shamanism to determine which practice is right for you. Siberian shamanism, Korean shamanism and South American shamanism are all unique forms of the religion working under the same principle.

Practice Self Healing

1. Meditate on your problems and visualize healing them. Shamanic tradition holds that afflictions of the mind are caused by afflictions in the spirit.

2. Try taking a personal journey to the spirit world through spiritual drumming. Drumming can provide a meditative, healing state to help resolve your mental conflict. You may wish to join a drum circle in your area.

3. Research the influence of power animals. Perhaps you feel that you, too, have a power animal protecting and guiding you. Take some quiet time and ask your power animal to guide you through a healing journey.

4. Consider working with energy stones to shift the energy in your body to a positive state. This may help your mental affliction.

Work With an Actual Shaman

1. Interview a shaman to better understand what healing the mind through battling with the spirit (or working with herbal remedies) would feel like.

2. Search for a practitioner trained in shamanic healing through word-of-mouth recommendations or Web sites like the Healing Arts Network (see Resources below).

3. Schedule a visit to heal your mind with the work of shamanism. Research the particular healing practice ahead of time so you feel comfortable during your session.

Tips & Warnings

• Never spend more than you can afford on shamanic care. With alternative medicine, price ranges fluctuate dramatically, so be sure to only look into mental health care that you can afford. Some shamans heal patients for free, while others charge exorbitant fees.

• If you try to heal yourself through the practice of shamanism, but your efforts fail, you may want to get in touch with an actual shaman.

• Visit the ER or your doctor immediately if your mental anxiety pushes you to suicidal thoughts. You can find care through the U.S. government's Mental Health Web pages (see Resources below).

• Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners are licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider and keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.