Shamanism and crystal healing are two ancient practices in use for centuries to promote healing, balance, and spiritual growth. While these practices are often thought of as separate entities, they are not separate, but deeply connected. In fact, many shamanic traditions incorporating the use of crystals in their healing rituals.
Entwined in shamanism is the beauty of nature while perceiving humans and the earth as reflections of each other. In fact, for shamans, the earth represents life fully and completely. This is why early humans gave the honor of “living essence” to everything on earth both animate and inanimate which is the “animism” belief system.
This fascinating connection between shamanism and crystal healing has more people turning to these powerful spiritual practices for guidance. In this article, we explore the history and origins of shamanism and crystal healing, and the ways they are intertwined.
The Ancient History of Shamanism
The history of shamanism is fascinating! Do you know it finds its origins in Siberia? It became the primary religion of many early civilizations as it spread throughout modern-day Russia and the Slavic countries.
It also found its way into the Scandinavian region. From there it migrated to the Americas and other continents as well. Amazingly, it’s still in practice among cultures around the world. Those cultures include the Arrernte people of Central Australia, the Iban of Borneo, and the Native Americans.
According to a document from the University at Buffalo, the Moche and Chimu area of Northern Peru is inhabited by descendants of the Moche, Chimu and Inca civilizations. The document also mentions that the area has shamans who use a “healing table” or “mesa” which divides into three sections. The central area is for balance and that’s where the crystal sits for rituals. Then, one side represents divine justice while the other side represents dark and evil magic.
University at Buffalo
“The Pachakuti Mesa is a personal alter used ceremonially to access spiritual forces and energies for the purposes of healing, the advancement of consciousness, and the restoration of balance on both individual and collective levels.”
Peruvian Shamanism: The Pachakuti Mesa
The historical truth is, many religions, from Buddhism to Christianity, came from ancient shamanic roots. What’s wonderful is that they still bear the shamanic threads of deep connection to the divine in all things.
The history of shamanism and crystal healing dates back thousands of years. Shamanism has been practiced by indigenous cultures around the world, from the Americas to Africa to Asia. This is a practice passed down through generations, with each culture adding their own unique traditions and practices.
Crystal healing also has a long history dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and the Greeks. In these cultures, crystals were believed to have powerful healing properties and were used in a variety of ways, from jewelry to medicine.
The connection between shamanism and crystal healing is present throughout history. Even now, many indigenous cultures use crystals in their shamanic practices. Amazingly, crystals are found in burial sites and other sacred places associated with shamanic traditions.
Understanding Shamanism and Crystal Healing
The term shamanism comes from the Manchu-Tungus word šaman. The noun is formed from the verb ša- ‘to know’; thus, a shaman is literally “one who knows.”
Shamanism is a religious practice that involves a practitioner (shaman or saman) interacting with the spirit world. The goal is to direct spiritual energies in the physical world for healing or divination.
It’s also noteworthy that shamans consider certain areas of the earth to be sacred. In fact, you’ve probably heard or read about the earth’s energy lines. Interestingly, these sacred spaces emit high levels of energy or “life force”. For example, in some cultures in China, they call the energy lines the earth’s “dragon paths”.
Crystal healing involves using crystals and gemstones to promote healing, balance, and spiritual growth. They also have unique properties and energies that enhance well-being and promote healing on a spiritual, emotional, and physical level.
From shamanism, we get the custom of cleaning crystals by smudging them. Native Americans practice this custom to “empower” earth objects such as crystals by smudging them.
The Role of Crystals in Shamanism
Crystals play an important role in many shamanic traditions. They are often used in shamanic journeys, where they can help to enhance the power and effectiveness of the journey. Crystals are also used to create grids, which are patterns that amplify energy and promote healing.
Again, crystals are often used in shamanic healing sessions. A shaman places crystals on the body or uses them in other ways to help balance energy and promote healing. Crystals also create sacred spaces such as medicine wheels or altars used in shamanic rituals.
A shaman’s healing tool kit will always contain crystals because they are a key component of healing energies. There are also shamans who believe them to be the crystal tears of sky spirits.
This practice connects with the spirit world to gain insight, guidance, and healing. Shamans are called to this path and through extensive training they connect with the spirit world. In so doing, they are able to work with energy in a powerful way.
While these practices may seem very different on the surface, they are actually deeply connected. Many shamanic traditions use crystals in their healing rituals. In fact, crystals are often used to enhance the power of shamanic journeys and other shamanic practices.
The Science Behind Shamanism and Crystal Healing
While shamanism and crystal healing are spiritual practices, there is scientific research that supports their effectiveness. One study shows shamanic practices have a positive impact on brain function and reduce depression and anxiety.
Similarly, shamanism teach us that crystals have unique vibrational frequencies that can affect the human body on a cellular level. When placed on the body or used in other ways, the innate energy in the crystals balances energy and promotes healing.
How to Fuse Shamanism and Crystal Healing into Your Life
If you want to explore the world of shamanism and crystal healing, there are many ways to begin. For one, begin with reading books or taking courses on these topics. There are also many online resources and communities to connect with others who are interested in these practices.
In addition, anyone can use crystals as a healthy lifestyle choice. For example, wear crystal jewelry, place crystals in your home or office, or carry them with you throughout the day. Also, try using crystals while meditating or other spiritual practices as an enhancement.
There are many practitioners around the world who offer shamanic healing sessions, workshops, and retreats. Reportedly, these experiences are powerful and transformative. Scroll down for a list of websites for you to visit for more information.
The Benefits of Shamanism and Crystal Healing
The benefits of shamanism and crystal healing are many. These practices promote physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. They also bring balance and harmony to your life. In addition, they are for connecting with your inner wisdom while navigating life’s challenges with ease and grace.
Studying shamanism and crystal healing also develops a deeper connection with the natural world and the spirit realm. So, if you have a sense of wonder for the mysteries of life, then, connect to something greater than yourself!
Shamanism and Crystal Healing Techniques
There are many different techniques and practices that are used in shamanism and crystal healing. Some of these techniques include:
1. Shamanic Journeying
Shamanic journeying is a practice that involves entering an altered state of consciousness to connect with the spiritual world. Shamans, who are spiritual leaders and healers in indigenous communities, use journeying as a tool to interact with spirits, ancestors, and other non-physical entities. The practice typically involves the use of a drum or other rhythmic instrument to induce a trance state. The shaman then travels to the spiritual realm to seek guidance, wisdom, or healing.
Shamanic journeying is a technique that is learned and mastered while being experienced and practiced. By allowing a person to symbolically journey, they hear and feel various things. For example, a therapist guides a client through their first journey. Then, the client is free to take the reins of each subsequent flight. Perception, clarity, and understanding deepen with each journey. A client actually develops a keener sense of awareness to emotions, feelings. In addition, they learn how to accept what they see along each journey.
2. Crystal Grids
Crystal grids are patterns of crystals that are used to amplify energy and promote healing. They are a powerful tool for manifestation and energy healing. A crystal grid is an arrangement of crystals in a pattern that uses the focus stone and surrounding stones to dispel negative energy and strengthen positive energies. The pattern and selection of crystals are to amplify and direct the energy towards a specific intention or goal.
3. Ceremony and Rituals
Ceremony and rituals are practices that are used to create sacred space and connect with the spirit world. They remove us from the ordinary flow of life and place us in sacred space. It’s out of the realm of ordinary space and time that rituals create their power through the symbolic reenactment. Traditional healing ceremonies promote wellness by reflecting Native conceptions of Spirit, Creator, and the Universe. They often include prayer, chants, drumming, songs, stories, and the use of a variety of sacred objects.
4. Energy Healing
Energy healing is a practice where the shaman uses their hands or other tools to balance energy and promote healing. The practitioner heals within the spiritual dimension by returning ‘lost’ parts of the human soul from wherever they are. The shaman also cleanses excess negative energies that can confuse or pollute the soul.
Common Misconceptions about Shamanism and Crystal Healing
There are many misconceptions about shamanism and crystal healing, and it’s important to address some of these myths. One misconception is that these practices are only for “spiritual” people or those interested in new age spirituality. In reality, shamanism and crystal healing are practices that can benefit anyone, regardless of their religious or spiritual beliefs.
Another misconception is that these practices are not based in science or are somehow “woo-woo” or unproven. Again, there is scientific research that supports the effectiveness of these practices. What’s more, traditional cultures have used these practices for centuries.
Shamanism and Crystal Healing Retreats and Workshops
If you want to deepen your practice of shamanism and crystal healing, consider retreats and workshops available around the world. These experiences are powerful, transformative and you connect with like-minded individuals who are also on a spiritual path.
Many of these retreats and workshops offer many teachings, from shamanic journeying to crystal healing to ceremony and ritual. They can be a great way to immerse yourself in these practices and to learn from experienced teachers and practitioners.
The connection between shamanism and crystal healing is fascintating. Plus, exploring these practices is a powerful way to enhance your well-being and promote spiritual growth. If you want to work with a shaman, use crystals, or attend a retreat, there are many resources to connect with the wisdom of the spirit world.
Remember that shamanism and crystal healing are practices that require patience, dedication, and an open mind. With time and practice, you get a deeper connection with these powerful practices while discovering their benefits.
Suggested Trainings and Workshops Around the World
Again, there are many practitioners around the world who offer shamanic healing sessions, workshops, and retreats. Reportedly, these experiences are powerful and transformative. Below are a few for you to check out.
The Heart of The Healer Shamanic Mystery School – The Pachakuti Mesa Tradition Cross-Cultural Shamanism
Exploring the powerful world of crystal shamanism – A Surplice of Spirit
Core Shamanism Workshops, Training, and Courses: Foundation for Shamanic Studies founded by Michael Harner
Shamanism: Foundation for Shamanic Studies founded by Michael Harner
Energetic and Shamanism Training – Crystal Lotus Healing
Reiki Infinite Healer Course | Chakras, Symbols + Certification
Suggested Tools and Shopping
Conclusion
It is our wish that you find this post enlightening and helpful. If you have any questions or suggestions, we love to hear from you in the comments below. Also, join our group on Facebook to surround yourself with kindred spirits and to post your encouraging messages.
