Embracing Shamanism has been on a break the past month. In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, the importance of self-care often gets lost in the shuffle. However, from a shamanic perspective, taking time for self-care, retreat, and dream-time is not just a luxury but a necessity for maintaining balance and harmony in our lives.
The Shamanic View of Self-Care
Shamanism, one of the world’s oldest spiritual practices, views the self as a complex, interconnected web of physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual elements. In this holistic approach, self-care is seen as essential for nurturing all aspects of our being. Regular practices of self-care help maintain the equilibrium between our inner and outer worlds, allowing us to live more authentically and purposefully.
The Power of Retreat
A retreat, in the shamanic sense, is more than a simple getaway. It is a sacred time to disconnect from external distractions and reconnect with our true selves. During a retreat, we can engage in practices such as meditation, nature walks, and ceremonies that help us delve deeper into our subconscious. This period of introspection and solitude allows for profound healing and renewal. It provides an opportunity to release negative energies and patterns that no longer serve us, making room for new insights and growth.
Dream-Time: Envisioning Our True Desires
In shamanic traditions, dream-time extends beyond the realm of night time dreams. It encompasses moments dedicated to envisioning and manifesting our deepest desires and personal callings. Prioritizing this form of dream-time means setting aside moments in our daily lives to reflect on our aspirations and the life we want to create. This is a sacred time to connect with our inner wisdom and clarify our goals. By focusing on our dreams and intentions, we can align our actions with our true purpose, bringing our visions into reality. Embracing dream-time as a practice of intentional manifestation empowers us to live authentically and fulfil our highest potential.
Integrating Self-Care, Retreat, and Dream-Time
Incorporating shamanic principles of self-care, retreat, and dream-time into our lives requires commitment and mindfulness. Here are a few tips to get started:
Create Sacred Space: Dedicate a quiet, comfortable area in your home for meditation, reflection, and rituals.
Practice Mindfulness: Engage in daily practices that ground you in the present moment, such as breathwork, journaling, or mindful walking.
Honour Your Dreams: Pay attention to your dreams by keeping a dream journal and reflecting on recurring themes or symbols.
Schedule Regular Retreats: Set aside time periodically to retreat from your daily routine. This can be as simple as a weekend in nature or a dedicated day of silence and solitude.
By prioritizing self-care, retreat, and dream-time, we can reconnect with our inner wisdom, restore our energy, and navigate our lives with greater clarity and purpose. From a shamanic perspective, these practices are vital for nurturing our souls and maintaining a harmonious balance with the world around us. So, take the time to care for yourself deeply—your spirit will thank you. Learn more about our work at Embracing Shamanism here.