Life is a journey filled with ups and downs, joys and sorrows, good times and hard times. You never know what’s around the corner, that’s the fun of the game.
It’s not uncommon that we may find ourselves occasionally in the midst of a profoundly difficult phase in life. Feeling emotionally, physically depleted and hopeless. Many turn to anti-depressants in modern times, but is this really the answer?
From a ‘shamanic’ perspective, we often refer to these times as a spiritual crisis, also known as the “dark night of the soul.” This term, coined by the Spanish mystic and poet St. John of the Cross, refers to a period of intense inner turmoil, despair and a sense of spiritual emptiness.
Shamanic practices can offer unique and powerful perspectives and tools to help you navigate through these challenging periods, emerging stronger, wiser and brighter than before; more connected to your authentic-self.
What constitutes a dark night of the soul can vary from person to person. It may be triggered by a major life event such as the loss of a loved one, a traumatic experience, a sudden change in circumstances, or even a deep existential crisis. These triggers shake the very foundations of our being and can leave us feeling lost, disconnected, and even questioning the meaning and purpose of our existence.
In ancient times, our ancestors recognised the dark night of the soul as a transformative and necessary part of the human experience. They understood that it was during these periods of darkness that we had the opportunity to confront our deepest fears, shed old patterns and beliefs and ultimately grow spiritually. Rather than viewing it as a negative experience, they saw it as a sacred initiation into a higher level of consciousness. This is still my take on it. The only true way out is through, therefore ‘quick fixes’ or distractions just won’t heal the wounds and ultimately only waste try opportunity that a dark night brings to truly alchemise the core of your being.
Shamanism is a spiritual practice that spans the world and dates back thousands of years. The practices of shamanism maintain similar threads and offer profound and effective ways to navigate through the dark night of the soul. Shamans, spiritual healers, help guide the work by grace drink the unseen realms and the energies of the natural world. They understand that the soul has its own unique journey and that the dark night is a crucial part of that journey.
Shamanic practices can help individuals going through a dark night of the soul in several ways. Firstly, shamans can assist in identifying and addressing the root causes of the crisis. Through various techniques such as journeying, drumming, ceremonies, altered states of consciousness and energy work. They can help individuals access their subconscious and uncover hidden traumas or unresolved issues that may be contributing to their spiritual crisis.
Authentic shamans can provide support and guidance during this challenging period. They offer a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to express their emotions and fears. Through compassionate listening and intuitive insights, shamans can help individuals gain clarity, find meaning in their experiences and develop a deeper understanding of themselves.
Furthermore, shamanic practices can facilitate the process of healing and transformation. Shamans work with the energies of nature, spirit guides and ancestors to help individuals release old patterns, beliefs and attachments that no longer serve them. They guide individuals through rituals, ceremonies, such as soul retrieval and extraction techniques, to help reclaim lost parts of themselves and restore balance and harmony to their lives.
Ultimately, shamanic practices offer a holistic approach to navigating the dark night of the soul. They honour the individual’s unique journey, provide support and guidance and facilitate healing and transformation. By embracing this ancient spiritual tradition, individuals can emerge from the darkness with a renewed sense of purpose, connection and inner strength.
The dark night of the soul is a profound spiritual crisis that can be triggered by various life events. However, shamanic practices offer a powerful and transformative way to navigate through this challenging phase. By working with shamans, individuals can address the root causes of their crisis, receive support and guidance, and embark on a journey of healing and transformation. Through this ancient spiritual tradition, individuals can emerge from the darkness with a deeper understanding of themselves and a renewed sense of purpose and connection.
I offer a number of ways to support people dying a dark night of the soul, online and in person, with or without plant medicines. See the website for more details on how I can support you and others undergoing this opportunity alchemise your soul.
Nancy El Amor
Shamanic Heartspace 