Shamans are people. For that, just like anyone else, they come in all shapes, sizes, attitudes, and flavors. In order for one to find the right shaman, it is advised to follow these guidelines:
Methods and Specialties
Just as all shamans have their own unique preference and style of healing, every person who seeks healing has their own preferences, as well. For that, there is a lot of beauty to be found in the vast variety of shamans and their various methods of healing — one shaman may be perfect for one person but not-so-great for another.
Some shamans work a lot with stones and crystals, while others focus on rhythm and chanting. Some shamans personally train clients to embark on their own shamanic journeys, and others journey alone. Some work one-on-one, while others work in a group setting. There are also shamans who specialize in specific fields such as addictions, PTSD, soul-retrieval, and energy balance.
In order to get the most out of shamanic healing, the right client must be matched to the right shaman.
Qualities
It is of great importance to note that although someone has the title of “shaman,” this does not automatically make them a patron saint of ethics or a supernatural, God/Goddess-like being. Someone can claim that they are a shaman but that does not always mean they have the best of intentions. Below are some positive shamanistic qualities to look out for:
- They are humble — a real shaman does not walk around as if they are a rock star;
- They are trustworthy;
- They do not push personal boundaries;
- They let you come to them (it is common in South America for “shamans” to approach tourists on the streets and offer them a brew; this, typically, is not genuine);
- They accept you as you are, without even the slightest hint of judgment;
- They possess a playful, peaceful demeanor;
- They are of pure spirit.
- However, it is primarily about whether or not one feels good and comfortable around the shaman.
