What if you have tried shamanic journeying and found it challenging or even impossible? The good thing is that Michael Harner, PhD, discovered over several decades that more than 90% of individuals can learn to journey successfully. This does not mean everyone finds it easy during those first few journeys and experiences it as a full-color movie. It is a practice that builds with, well, practice.
Shamanic journeying can be a challenging process for several reasons. Firstly, it often requires a deep level of introspection and vulnerability while also letting go and trusting a brand-new process, which can be intimidating for many individuals. Participants may encounter new emotions, face personal fears, or recognize unresolved issues from their past during their journeys. This process can be emotionally taxing and may lead to resistance or reluctance to engage in the experience fully. Trusting that the journey to visit compassionate helping spirits is real takes time and often results in repeated questioning. That is natural and human to do. Don’t judge yourself!
Additionally, the practice of shamanic journeying involves navigating altered states of consciousness, which can be disorienting at times. Without proper guidance, individuals may struggle to focus, connect with the helping spirits, or interpret the messages they receive. Discernment takes practice as well. The journey can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially for beginners who may not yet be familiar with the various techniques and tools that can both enhance and simplify their experiences.
This is where formal instruction from the faculty of the Foundation for Shamanic Studies can be incredibly beneficial. These instructors possess the knowledge and experience to guide students thoroughly before and after their initial journeys, helping to build trust in their developing skills and providing essential grounding and support. They offer structured frameworks for journeying, teach specific techniques, and help participants set intentions, which can lead to more profound and meaningful experiences.
Moreover, learning in a group setting fosters a sense of community and shared experience, which can alleviate feelings of isolation or doubt. Instructors can provide immediate feedback, answer questions, and help participants navigate any challenges that arise during the journey process. Ultimately, this guidance not only enhances the quality of the journey but also empowers individuals to cultivate their independent spiritual practices with confidence and clarity.
Feel free to reach out if you would like to learn more. Journeying is a powerful tool that can bring so much personal healing to those who embrace it.
