Holistic Healing 101: How Shamanism and Energy Medicine Work Together
Shamanism is one of the oldest healing traditions in the world, yet its wisdom feels as relevant today as it did thousands of years ago. At its core, shamanism is about understanding the flow of energy—the invisible force that connects all things. Shamanism reminds us that we are connected to all! Across cultures, shamans have served as healers, guides, and mediators between the physical and spiritual worlds, working with the energy of their communities to restore and maintain harmony. The shaman is a facilitator to remind their communities of who they are as an individual and in relation to all..
Today, many ancient practices have been reintroduced and have evolved into what many now call energy medicine. Energy medicine as we define it today has its roots, framework, and techniques anchored in various ancient healing practices. Energy medicine can refer to shamanic healing, acupuncture, Reiki, chakra work, and sound healing, to name a few.
While these modern practices may feel more accessible to today‘s scientifically minded world, they are deeply rooted in the same principles that shamans have honored for millennia: the understanding that energy is the foundation of all life and that healing happens when we are mindful of how our energy bodies ebb and flow and collaborate with our mind, body and spirit.
In a world that often feels chaotic and disconnected, shamanism and energy medicine offer a way to reclaim harmony in our lives, set boundaries, and live intentionally. We are reminded that we are not separate from the energy around us—we are part of it. When we learn to work with this energy consciously, we step into our power as healers of our own lives.
Energy Is Everywhere—Even in Unexpected Places
Before I became a shamanic energy medicine practitioner, I worked as a CPA. At first glance, accounting and energy healing might seem worlds apart, but I quickly realized that my work with money was, at its core, working with energy. Money is simply a form of energy—it flows, it transforms, and it reflects our beliefs and intentions. This realization was a turning point for me. It showed me that we’re already working with energy everyday, whether we’re aware of it or not.
*artwork by Autumn Skye
Shamanism is often seen as a mystical or esoteric practice, but in reality, it’s a way of categorizing certain types of energy work to help it fit into our modern world. The truth is, we’re all energy workers in some way. The question is: Are we doing it intentionally?
Becoming Intentional with Energy
One of the most beautiful aspects of shamanism is that it helps us become more aware of the energy around us and within us. This awareness is the first step toward intentional living and holistic healing. When we understand how energy flows through our relationships, our work, and even our finances, we can start to make choices that align with our highest good. We cultivate a beautiful way of being the Witness to our life, understanding our reactions, or choices, and what we are drawn to. We become aware of the power we have to make shifts in our energy and daily lives to reach a sense of holistic well-being.
For example, have you ever walked into a room and immediately felt the energy shift? Or noticed how certain people drain your energy while others uplift you? We can always be mindful as to whether an energy shift is ours or someone else’s. We always have the choice as to how we react to another’s energy. These are everyday examples of energy exchanges…shamanic practices and energy medicine give us the tools to navigate these experiences with clarity and purpose.
I have found the easiest way to become mindful of your energy is through meditation. I know, I know, you have heard this before and may have found meditation a challenge.
There are many ways to incorporate meditation that go beyond what you may think it is, or what you have experienced in the past. The quieting of the mind is really an observation of our thoughts, feelings and physicality of our present moment. It is not the absolute absence of all things as we sit in stillness. We are not meditating to get rid of our thoughts.
The intention is to bring an energy exchange where the mind quiets, calming the mind, and also our physical body, with an uplifting and deeper connection to Spirit.
There are many ways to bring a daily mindful practice to our routines. Simply taking a walk while mindfully being aware of surroundings as you stride along. We can even bring a meditative state to our morning beverage. Instead of sleep walking to make our drink, really tuning into the ritual of the creation of our beverage, where we take the time to smell, taste, and feel (using your senses) our drink we can really bring ourselves into a meditative space…For more ideas on how to create a sacred morning routine, see my blog.
A Holistic Path to Healing
From an energy healing perspective, we often see how unresolved emotional, mental, or spiritual challenges can manifest as physical discomfort. Chronic pain, recurring ailments, or that persistent “crick in your neck”might be more than just physical—they could be signs of stuck energy, generational trauma, or emotional wounds that haven’t been fully processed. While seeking medical attention is always important, energy medicine offers a complementary path to address the root causes of many physical symptoms.
Think of it this way: our bodies are like rivers. When the flow of energy is blocked—whether by stress, trauma, or emotional pain—it can create stagnation, which
over time, may surface as physical or emotional discomfort. Shamanism and energy medicine help to clear these blockages, allowing the river to flow freely again. They invite us to explore the deeper layers of our being, uncovering the stories and energies that no longer serve us.
Holistic healing isn’t just about alleviating symptoms—it’s about understanding the interconnectedness of your mind, body, and spirit. It’s about creating harmony on all levels, so you can move through life with greater ease and vitality. Whether you’re navigating physical pain, emotional wounds, or a sense of spiritual disconnection, these practices offer a pathway to healing that honors your whole self.
By working with shamanic energy medicine, you’re not just addressing the surface-level issue; you‘re diving into the depths of your being to reclaim your power, restore harmony, and reconnect with your innate wisdom. It’s a journey of coming home to yourself—one that invites you to heal not just for today, but for generations to come. You will be able to answer the age old question of “Who am I”?
Your Energy, Your Power
Learning to work with your energy intentionally is a beautiful act of self-love. Shamanism and energy medicine are not just healing modalities—they‘re invitations to live more consciously, having clarity within ourselves to live a life that supports our best and highest good. Remember this can be different for each of us. We are reminded that we are not separate from the energy around us; we are entwined. When we align with our unique energy we empower ourselves and we are able to share our love and service with those around us..
If you‘ve been feeling called to explore shamanism and energy medicine, know that this is your intuition guiding you toward greater harmony and holistic health.Remember that life is a great journey, you don’t need to have all the answers at once. I encourage all of us to stay in touch with our inner self and keep connecting deeper with our personal energy, mind, body, and spirit. Be curious! Let’s explore together!!