Origin of shamanism

Shamanism is an immemorial practice that dates back to the dawn of time. Not only is it the oldest spiritual practice known to humanity, but it is also the ancestor of all modern religions.

Historically speaking, shamanism was practiced in Siberia, in Scandinavia, by the Lapland Sami, in Greeland, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia and by the indigenous people of the 3 Americas.

The term “shaman” originates from traditional Siberian societies :

• Evene/Evenki/Evenks;
• Lamoutes;
• Tungusic/Tunguse.

Today, the Evenk are Orthodox, animists, shamanists or Lamaists (a branch of Tibetan Buddhism). Howerver, many peoples and individuals still engage in shamanism.

Shamanism definitions

The word “shaman” refers to a spiritual healer.

Shamanism has a neuroscientific basis (trance). Obviously, as a method, it is a form of meditation combined with focused intention to accomplish a variety of things. As a spiritual practice, shamanism can become a way of life that can be quite transformative for the persone who practices it.

Shamanic beliefs are based on animism.

Animism : It is the belief that a spirit or life force animates living beings, objects and natural elements such as stones, trees, sun and wind. It is also the belief in protective beings.

Animist traditions and shamanism :

• Are not distinct religious traditions : one goes with the other;
• Participate in an understanding of the world through spiritual or symbolic experiences.

Shamanism shows that the smallest thing that exists has life and spirit; and that a spiritual bond makes us all united with the earth and all living things. Shamanism teaches that helping spirits have much to teach us :

• When we want to find balance and harmony;
• Let us get closer to nature;
• That we respect natural cycles.

The terms “shaman” and “shamanism” have a universal character because, despite the differences, the same practices are found among all shamanist peoples on the planet.

Sources :

BEN, JEHOSHUA; NARDI, DARIO; MAMONT, AVI. Awaken your inner viking shaman – begginer, intermediate and advanced certified training. [En ligne], Radiance House, Cheyenne, Wyoming, 2021.

INGERMAN, SANDRA; WESSELMAN, HANK. Awakening to the spirit world : The shamanic path of direct revelation. Sound True. Boulder, Colorado. 2010, 929 pages.

INGERMAN, SANDRA. Shamanic journey : A biginner’s guide. Sound True. Boulder, Colorado, 2008, 88 pages.