How to check if the shaman's path suits you

How can I check if the shaman's path is right for me?

A guide for all those who hear the call of shamanism but are not yet sure if they really want to follow it.

May your path – wherever it leads you – always be guided by clarity, respect, and love.

Audio version of the article

1. Why this question is so important

Shamanism is not a hobby, but a profound spiritual path that demands responsibility, devotion, and a clear inner calling. Those who embark on this path often become a kind of "healer" and "connector," not only for themselves, but also for other people, animals, and nature. Therefore, it is advisable to thoroughly examine whether one's own motives, values, and resources are compatible before taking the first step.

2. What does "shamanism" actually mean?

3. Self-check: The first questions to ask yourself

Tip: Write your answers down on a piece of paper or in a journal. Repeat the questions after a few days – a clearer picture often only emerges after some distance.

Result check:

• 0-2 „Yes“ answers → The approach is probably not suitable yet; perhaps an initial introduction through workshops will suffice.
• 3-5 „Yes“ answers → You are in the right area, however, more intensive self-reflection should follow.
• 6-8 „Yes“ answers → Very good indication that this path could suit you – now it's time for practical exploration.

4. Practical steps to test the path

4.1. Learn the basics – without giving your all right away.

1. Books & Podcasts
   • „"The Shaman from Nowhere"“ by Michael Harner (basic techniques).
   • „Shamanic Paths“ by Sandra Ingerman (modern applications).
   • Podcast: „"Shamanic Journey"“ (short interviews with practitioners).
2. Online courses & webinars
   • Introductory courses on shamanic drumming journeys (often 2-3 hours, free of charge).
   • Mindfulness and breathwork, which lays the foundation for trance states.
3. Local workshops
   search for „"Shamanic Circle"“, „"Drum circle"“ or „Native American drumming“ in your city. Open sessions are often offered – a great opportunity to experience the energy firsthand.

4.2. Try a guided tour

• Guided Drum Journey (1-2 hours) with an experienced instructor.
• Shamanic meditation (e.g., „Inner journey to your power animal“).

Pay conscious attention to the following during and after the experience:

• Emotional response: Did you feel alive, cleansed, or even exhausted?
• Cognitive clarity: Were you able to interpret the pictures, or did you feel confused?
• Aftermath: Did the experience have a positive impact on your everyday life or did it have a negative one?

4.3. Find a mentor / a community

• Spiritual teachersIdeally, someone who is trained in a recognized tradition and follows ethical guidelines.
• Shamanic Societiese.g. Foundation for Shamanic Studies or national shamanic associations.
• Critical reviewMake sure that the mentor no spiritual promises does things that are not scientifically verifiable, and that he Respect for indigenous cultures shows.

4.4. Test your physical and mental resilience

• Physical check-up: Consult a doctor before undertaking intensive practices (fasting, herbal medicine).
• Psychological self-checkIf you already suffer from depression, anxiety disorders, or trauma, talk to a therapist before allowing yourself to enter intense trance states.

5. Warning signs – when you should avoid the path

If you recognize one or more of these signals, it is advisable to work on your personal stability first before delving deeper.

6. Mini self-assessment quiz (for a quick overview)

Directions: Choose for each statement Yes (1 point) or No (0 points). Add up your points at the end.

1. I regularly feel a strong inner pull towards spiritual topics.
2. I already have experience with meditation, breathwork, or similar practices.
3. I can regularly and with discipline set aside time for spiritual exercises.
4. I feel drawn to a particular shamanic tradition (e.g. Siberia, Amazon) and respect its culture.
5. I had my physical and mental health checked by professionals.
6. I feel comfortable learning and working in a community.
7. I am prepared to follow ethical guidelines and not to commercialize spiritual practices.

Evaluation

• 0–2 points: Too early – start with basic knowledge and easy exercises.
• 3–5 points: You're on the right track, but you should specifically work on your weaker areas.
• 6–7 points: The shamanic path could be a great fit for you – start looking for a trustworthy mentor now.

7. Resources you can use immediately

8. Conclusion – Your personal compass

The shaman's path is not a quick sprint, but a long, often bumpy hiking trail that can lead you back to deeper parts of yourself and to nature. The most important step is... Self-transparency: Recognize your true motives, check your health, and test the practice in small, safe steps.

If you feel that your inner fire continues to burn brightly afterward, then that's a strong sign that you're on the right path. And if not – that's valuable too, because it shows you which other spiritual paths might be a better fit for you.

Note: Shamanism is a gift that comes with respect, humility and Responsibility which goes hand in hand. If you carry these principles in your heart, you have already found the most important key to the journey.

Further links:

• Is it easy to become a shaman?
• Is it possible to become a shaman – without family ties?
• What you need to become a shaman
• What is the process of training a shaman?
• Is it possible to be trained as a shaman online?
• Beyond the Ritual: The Silent Training of the Shaman
• Medical training for shamans?
• Shaman in the city
• Real shaman or "self-proclaimed"„
• Is it possible to be a shaman and still have a normal job?
• Can I become a shaman if I am not indigenous?
• Shaman's student
• How long does a shamanic course last??

Good luck exploring your inner shaman! 🌿🪶✨

Author: [Artur], professional blog writer and passionate consciousness researcher
Date: March 30, 2026