Siberian Shamanism: Trance Techniques and Communication with Spirits

Siberian shamanism is an ancient spiritual practice, deeply rooted in the traditions of the indigenous people of Siberia. It is based on the idea that the shaman, as an intermediary between the spirit world and that of humans, uses various techniques to enter trance and communicate with spirits.

Trance Techniques

Trance is at the heart of Siberian shamanism. It allows the shaman to detach himself from physical reality to access other dimensions. Methods for achieving this state vary, but they primarily include:

1. Drum and Chant: The shaman uses a drum to create a repetitive rhythm, often accompanied by ritual chants. This sound combination induces a trance state by modifying the shaman’s consciousness.

2.Dance: Ritual dance, often performed in a circle, is another way to enter a trance. It promotes connection with the forces of nature and spirits.

3. Breathing and Hyperventilation: Specific breathing techniques, sometimes leading to hyperventilation, are used to alter the state of consciousness and facilitate entry into a trance.

4. Psychotropic Plants: In certain traditions, plants with entheogenic properties are used to accelerate entry into trance and strengthen communication with spirits. However, their use is strictly controlled and reserved for specific times.

Communication with the Spirits

Once in trance, the shaman travels into the spiritual worlds, often represented by three levels: the upper world, the middle world (our reality) and the lower world. In these journeys, the shaman communicates with various spirits, which can be:

– Spirits of the Ancestors: They are consulted for advice or to cure illnesses.

– Nature Spirits: These include the spirits of animals, plants, mountains, rivers, etc. The shaman may ask them for protection, guidance, or offer prayers to maintain harmony in the natural world.

– Protective Spirits: They accompany and protect the shaman on his spiritual journeys, ensuring that his spirit returns unharmed.

Spirits communicate through visions, symbols, or verbal messages, and the shaman interprets these signs to help his community. Soul return or healing rituals are among the most common practices, where the shaman « brings back » elements from the spiritual world to restore health or balance.

Conclusion

Siberian shamanism, with its techniques of trance and communication with spirits, is an ancestral practice that has survived through the centuries. It continues to be a source of healing and wisdom for the indigenous peoples of Siberia, deeply connecting the human with the sacred and nature.