The following text refers to my path and my personal experiences. My name is Sven Horn, I am a shaman and I learned the art of shamanic healing in Kathmandu with Kedar Upreti. Nepalese shamanism is deeply connected to nature, the ancestors and the spiritual world. In this article, I would like to share my experiences and knowledge of this special form of shamanism with you.
What is a Shaman?
A shaman is a person who can enter into altered states of consciousness through special techniques and rituals in order to communicate with the spiritual world. It is essential that the shaman not only acts as a healer, but also as a mediator between the physical and spiritual worlds. The connection to the spiritual world is essential in order to be able to work as a shaman.
This connection can be established in different ways in different traditions and cultures – through drumming, chanting, meditation, the use of medicinal plants or other spiritual techniques. The way in which a shaman works depends heavily on their training, cultural background and personal experience. However, the healing aspect is usually the main focus.
Nepalese shamanism
Nepalese shamanism is one of the oldest spiritual healing methods in the Himalayas. In Nepal, shamans are highly respected as they are regarded as mediators between the physical world and the world of spirits. Shamanic practice in Nepal is based on the connection to ancestors, nature spirits and deities. The sounds of drums, mantras and energetic healing methods play a central role. The use of tantric techniques such as mantra and kundalini energy is a special feature of this tradition.
I had the honor of learning about this deeply rooted spiritual tradition from Kedar Upreti, a respected shaman in Kathmandu. I was particularly impressed by the deep hospitality shown to the visitors. In traditional Nepalese shaman culture, healings were carried out regardless of money – people came with their requests and the shaman helped them without any fixed payment.
Respect for Nature
Those seeking help often stayed overnight or even for several days and were received with great warmth and care. This was possible because shamans pursued a normal activity and were not dependent on their income as shamans. This also leads to a liberated action in working together with deities, whose connection to us humans should not be a business, but should be done out of respect.
Deep respect for other people, their views, as well as for deities and nature, is essential in shamanism. Shamans know that they can only work in cooperation with other energies. To come into contact with these energies as a human being is not only a great honor, but in the belief of the Nepalese it requires a pure heart for this connection to be successful. At the same time, it is perfectly okay to simply be “human”, with preferences, desires and faults, as long as we do our best.
The tasks of a Shaman
Although the exact tasks of a shaman can vary depending on the culture and tradition, some essential aspects can be emphasized. On the one hand, the shaman serves as a healer by alleviating physical and mental ailments. On the other hand, he acts as a spiritual advisor who helps people to recognize their path in life. In addition, the shaman often takes on the role of a seer who can use his abilities to interpret future events. It is therefore also common for a shaman to use astrology in Nepal.
In the past, the shaman was the most important point of contact in a village when it came to healing, spiritual advice or protection from negative energies. Whether it was for physical ailments, emotional problems or rituals to harmonize the community, people relied on the shaman’s wisdom and spiritual abilities. This close connection between shaman and community has largely been lost nowadays.
Shamanic rituals and techniques in Nepalese shamanism
Shamans in Nepal use a variety of rituals and techniques to facilitate healing and spiritual realization. The following methods are particularly common:
- Shamanic journeys – A trance is induced through rhythmic drum beats or mantras, which enables one to communicate with the spiritual world.
- Rituals with offerings – In Nepal, incense sticks, rice, flowers or fruit are often offered as sacrifices in the fire.
- Energy work with mantras – Mantras can be used for many different purposes, e.g. to dissolve disharmonies or harmonize the energy flow in the body.
- Ancestor work – The connection with the ancestors is essential in Nepalese shamanism. Our ancestors can have a positive influence on our lives if we cultivate this connection.
- Herbal medicine and medicinal herbs – Natural remedies play an important role in traditional shamanic healing.
Shamanism in the modern world
In a world characterized by stress, hectic pace and disorientation, many people are looking for spiritual fulfillment and holistic healing methods. This is precisely where the Nepalese shaman comes in, offering a complementary approach that involves body, mind and soul in equal measure.
At the same time, knowledge and trust in the spiritual world is disappearing due to an increase in logic and material perspectives. This process is also reflected in the way we deal with nature in general. From my personal point of view, every civilization goes through a cycle in which the connection to our origins becomes stronger or weaker. Turning away from nature is therefore neither regrettable nor pleasing. It is the cycle of nature itself.
Personal everyday life as a shaman
As a shaman in the Nepalese tradition, I lead a completely normal life. In Nepal, shamans often work as farmers and have a family. I myself have a job and live a normal life. However, I also perform daily rituals and meditation to maintain my connection to the healing energies. Shamanic healing often requires flexibility, mental strength and the motivation to help others. I have discovered a beautiful path in this tradition in general, to which I dedicate my life.
If you are interested in a shamanic healing, please feel free to contact me. Namaste!