Sometimes the work a shaman does for a client is called a 'journey' or a 'soul retrieval'.  A journey is when a shaman goes into the spirit world on behalf of a client. What happens in each journey is unique for each client at the time of the journey. The work done is co-creation between the shaman and Spirit, according to teh intentions of the client. The work is designed and completed by the Spirit Guides and the client’s Higher Self who use the shaman as a tool and helper. Only the healing and release the client is able to accept at that time will happen. Journeys may involve releasing blocks, realigning and cleaning chakras and energy fields, retrieving soul pieces and more. 

It is important to understand that the word "shaman" means very different things to different people. Some cultures equate a shaman with one who uses magic to do their own or their clients' will, regardless of effects. A better word for this type of service might be sorcery. A shaman of integrity will not intrude on another's energy field without their informed consent.

Some old-style traditionalists of various traditions see the growing trend of "white" people calling themselves shamans or working shamanically as a threat. But most Native American traditions recognize these years (especially 2000-2012) as a special time, when traditions are opening and becoming more welcoming and all-inclusive. We are also witnessing a lot of modern caucasion people "waking up" with distinct memories of what seems like past native lifetimes. One way or another, the old wisdom of the ancients appears to be returning, in mysterious and beautiful ways, in all corners of our current culture and time. According to Maria Yraceburu, Quero Apache Ceremonialist, the old prophesies predicted that the (native) ancestors would be reborn to white women during the 60s and 70s. This prophesy seems to support the many people who are now remembering ancient ceremonies and native lives.

In this culture, most people who relate as "shamans" or "shamanic practitioners" are lightworkers working with a set of symbols and versions of the Divine that are represented by "shamanic" or earth-based symbology and visions. Spirit speaks to different people in whichever way they can best understand. For some of us, that means Spirit speaks through "spirit guides" and natural elemental and earth-based symbols and signs. There is no one path to Truth.

This article was written by Mellissa Seaman, shamanic healer and channel. She offers long-distance profound healing sessions and channeled information via email. Visit her at www.heartwisdom.net.