Becoming a shaman is a calling that blends ancient wisdom, spiritual connection, and a deep desire to heal and guide others. In the United States, interest in how to become a shaman has grown as people seek meaning beyond the material world. But what does it really mean to follow this path? This guide will walk you through the steps, tools, and mindset needed to learn how to become a shaman—no prior experience required. Let’s explore how you can awaken your inner shaman.

What Is a Shaman?

A shaman is a spiritual healer and guide who bridges the physical and spirit worlds. Rooted in traditions from Indigenous cultures—like those of Siberia, Native America, or South America—shamans use rituals, visions, and nature to help others. They might heal emotional wounds, communicate with spirits, or offer insight through altered states of consciousness. It’s not just a job; it’s a way of being.

How to Become a Shaman?

Step 1: Feel the Call

Shamanism isn’t something you casually pick up—it often picks you. Signs you might be called include:

• Vivid dreams or visions you can’t explain.
• A strong pull toward nature or animals.
• Feeling “different” or sensitive to energies around you.

Ask yourself: Do I feel drawn to help others spiritually? If yes, trust that instinct—it’s your soul whispering.

Step 2: Learn the Basics of Shamanism

Start with research to ground your journey:

• Books: Try The Way of the Shaman by Michael Harner or Shamanic Journeying by Sandra Ingerman—both are beginner-friendly and widely available in the U.S.
• Online Resources: Look for free articles or podcasts (like “The Shaman’s Cave” podcast).
• Core Concepts: Study spirit animals, the three worlds (Lower, Middle, Upper), and the idea of soul retrieval.

Shamans believe everything has a spirit—trees, rocks, even your coffee mug. Get curious about these ideas.

Step 3: Connect with Nature

Nature is a shaman’s classroom. Here’s how to begin:

Daily Practice: Spend 10-15 minutes outside—barefoot if possible—feeling the earth.

Observe: Notice animals or plants that catch your eye; they might be spirit guides.

Offerings: Leave a small gift (a flower, a pebble) as thanks to nature spirits.

In the U.S., national parks or even your backyard work. A shaman sees the divine in every leaf.

Step 4: Master Shamanic Journeying

Journeying is the heart of shamanism—a meditative state to meet spirits. Here’s a simple method:

• Tools: A drum or rattle (or use a drumming track on YouTube—search “shamanic drumming 10 minutes”).
• Steps:

1. it quietly, close your eyes, set an intention (e.g., “Meet my spirit guide”).
2. Play the drumming, imagine descending through a tunnel (like a tree root) to the Lower World.
3. Explore what you see—animals, beings, landscapes.
4. Return when the drumming slows (10-15 minutes).

• Safety: Always thank the spirits and “close” the journey by grounding (touch the floor).

First tries might feel odd, but with practice, visions get clearer.

Step 5: Find Your Spirit Guides

Shamans work with helpers—spirit animals, ancestors, or deities. To connect:

• Meditate: Ask, “Who’s here to guide me?” during a journey.
• Signs: A recurring animal (like an owl or wolf) might be your guide.
• Trust: If a bear appears in your vision, it could mean strength—look up its meaning in shamanic lore.

In the U.S., workshops like those from the Foundation for Shamanic Studies can help, but solo practice is also sufficient.

Step 6: Develop Rituals and Tools

Shamans use sacred objects:

• Drum or Rattle: Buy one online (Etsy has handmade options, $20-$50) or make your own with wood and hide.
• Altar: Set up a small space with candles, feathers, or stones that feel special.
• Smudging: Burn sage or palo santo (available at health stores) to cleanse energy—popular in American shamanic circles.

Rituals personalize your path—start small, like lighting a candle to honor spirits.

Step 7: Train with a Mentor (Optional)

While solo learning works, a teacher speeds things up:

• Workshops: Look for local events (search “shamanic training near me”)—costs range from $100-$500.
• Online Courses: Udemy or shamans like Alberto Villoldo offer classes ($50-$200).
• Community: Join Facebook groups like “Shamanism for Beginners” for free advice.

Not mandatory, but a mentor can refine your skills.

Step 8: Live the Shamanic Way

Becoming a shaman isn’t a finish line—it’s a lifestyle:

• Heal: Help friends with energy cleansings or journeying once you’re confident.
• Balance: Stay grounded—eat well, rest, don’t get lost in the spirit world.
• Give Back: Offer gratitude to nature and spirits daily.

Why This Matters

Shamanism taps into a hunger for connection in a fast-paced world. In the U.S., people search “how to become a shaman” to find purpose, heal trauma, or explore the unseen. You’re not just learning—you’re awakening.

Get Started Today

Grab a notebook, step outside, and listen. Will you answer the call?