Shamanic Journeying: A Beginner's Guide is an attractively
packaged hardcover book that comes with a CD that includes drumming. The
practice of shamanic journeying, Ingerman writes, involves parting "the
veils between the seen and unseen worlds and to access information and
energies that can help awaken us and restore us to wholeness." Shamans
act as mystics, healers and storytellers, but they never brag about
their abilities as apparently this will take away their power.
Ingerman states that there are
three worlds beyond the physical world. Celtic shamans might call this
the "Other World," while Australian aboriginal shamans call it the
"Dreamtime." The author states that there is the Lower World, the Upper
World and the Middle World. It is in the Lower World that you might meet
and develop a relationship with your power animal. You might encounter
fairies, devas, or elves when you journey to the Middle World. And in
the Upper World, you might encounter a teacher in human form.
The author provides exercises to
help you undertake your own journey to these worlds. She encourages you
to leave your questioning and rational self behind as you encounter
these new realities, urging you to release your doubt that this might be
just your imagination at work. Ingerman writes authoritatively and with
compassion as she accompanies you on your travels.
I was a bit disappointed that
the CD only contained the drumming to guide you on your exercises, which
are actually explained in writing. I was hoping to have the instructions
available in an audio format instead of reading them, trying to memorize
them and then undertake a shamanic journey. However, the drumming is
varied with three tracks -- one a drumming track with whistles and
rattles; the second a double-drumming track; and finally a 30-minute
single-drumming tract for longer journeys.
The author is practical when
giving instructions for shamanic journeys -- she says she has even used
an Advil bottle for a rattle out of necessity, and it was quite
effective! And in addition to giving information on divination and
healing journeys, she also poses different questions to ask when going
on a vision quest, such as "How can I use my creative energy to create a
positive present and future for myself?" or "What is the lesson or gift
for me in this difficult time?"
Finally, Ingerson offers some
sage advice: "People in our culture often forget to 'lighten up' when
doing spiritual practice. We tend to take everything too seriously,
putting too much pressure on ourselves. Traditional shamans and healers
are always laughing. Being overly serious in our journeys and lives
disconnects us from our own creative potential. Learn to laugh at
yourself and have fun with your practice." I, for one, am playing the
drumming CD now, so excuse me while I go shamanic journeying. I'm
looking forward to seeing who or what I encounter!
Review by Diane Saarinen.
Shamanic Journeying: A Beginner's Guide, by Sandra Ingerman,
Sounds True, 2004, 80 pp. plus CD, $19.95
