Shamanism is an ancient spiritual practice dating back may thousands of years. Indeed, it may be the oldest spiritual practice known to humans. The shamanic world view is that the whole of nature is alive and we are all connected and in relationship with every part of it. This means that even so-called “inanimate” objects are alive (have a spirit) and can be experienced as such and spoken to, for example; stones, weather, rivers. It also includes man-made objects such as cars and buildings.

Shamanism doesn’t exist without spirits and the word “spirit” is loaded with many meanings for many people. In this context however, a shaman or shamanic practitioner will have a relationship with spirit guides and helpers existing in the non-physical realms. The shamanic healer is initiated into the practise of travelling to Non-Ordinary Reality (The Spirit World) to meet and work with spirit helpers in many forms; human, animal or other, for the service of the community.