Frequently Asked Questions
Here are a few questions the people new to the Shamanic Community of Austin tend to ask. We welcome and appreciate all questions!
Where does Shamanism come from?
The words ‘Shaman’ and ‘Shamanism’ originated with the steppe people of Asia and was adopted by 19th-century anthropologists as a label for animists practicing ecstatic states. Traces of people practicing Shamanism can be seen in cave paintings, carvings, and folktales from many places, including North and South America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. Some of these traces, such as cave paintings, go back to the end of the last ice age around 50,000-70,000 years ago. Most cultures seem to have practiced some form of Shamanism at one time in their history.
Are you “Shamans”?
Shamans hold a place of honor in their tribe and perform vital spiritual and practical functions. Practicing in 21st century America, there is no recognized role of Shaman and no tribal initiation available to most of us. Therefore, we prefer to call ourselves ‘shamanic practitioners’ and offer this as a sign of respect to tribal Shamans around the world.
Do you have to believe certain things to join? Do I have to convert or change my beliefs?
We don’t insist on certain beliefs but teach shamanic practices and explore sacred experiences together. This emphasis on experience over belief means there can be many valid spiritual experiences and beliefs inside a common practice. You do not need to convert to Shamanism and can continue to practice another religion side by side with Shamanism if you wish.
What do you actually do in Circles?
The best way to find out what we do is to join us in a Circle. The next best way is to watch one of the videos linked on this website.
Shamanism is based on the spiritual practice called the Shamanic Journey. After centering ourselves, smudging to clear our energy, and performing ceremonies to awakening the spirit of the Circle, we use the rhythm of the drum to leave our bodies and move into the Spirit World. Afterward, we talk about our experiences, ask questions, and help each other understand what Spirit is teaching us.
How do I learn this?
We learn by doing, guided by more experienced shamanic practitioners ready to teach and answer questions. There are also regular workshops for beginners as well as videos on many topics. You can learn more on Gerry’s YouTube channel and the Shamanic Passages Institute.
Can anyone (men, women, LBQT, non-religious, etc.) join the Circle?
Everyone is welcome in our Circle. Since Shamanism is based on shared practice, we honor each person’s contribution to the Circle without judging their sexual orientation, spiritual beliefs, gender, ethnicity, or race.
How should I act when I get there?
We seek to build a community that is safe, sacred, authentic, and supportive.
Intention and respect is the basis for our actions in the Circle. We come into the Circle with sacred intention, respect the spirits that guide us, listen gently to the experiences of others, and protect everyone’s right to practice safely. We support a code of conduct for protecting the integrity of our bodies, energy, and spirit. Protocols are available on the Policies page.
What does it cost?
It costs nothing to attend a Circle (though some workshops and activities have fees). We suggest a $10 contribution, or whatever you can afford, to help us pay for the studio space we rent for our events.
Do you use drugs or ‘teacher plants’?
Though some Shamanic Circles use drugs/teacher plants we do not. Our practice is based on drumming, dancing, storytelling, and other traditional ways to shift our consciousness without chemicals. If you are interested in teacher plants we encourage you to carefully select an experienced guide since the chemicals involved can be harmful or fatal if used without due respect.
What if I have more questions?
There are Circle Elders and Circle Keepers who are chosen for their experience and willingness to serve and teach. They are present at every Circle and can easily be found by asking.
Here is a list of our Elder Council members. Please feel free to talk with them for more information.