The high-stakes (and misunderstood) world of Shamans

The High-Stakes (and Misunderstood) World of Shamans

Deep in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, the Siberian tundra, and the sacred lands of North America, Indigenous shamans walk the fine line between the physical and the spiritual, the seen and the unseen. Their world is one of immense responsibility, where healing, divination, and spiritual warfare are not just mystical practices but matters of life and death. So much more than ‘medicine men,’ their roles are often misunderstood. High stakes are just the beginning. 

Guardians of Ancient Knowledge

Shamans, medicine people, and spiritual leaders hold a sacred duty to their communities. Their role is not just about healing the sick; they are intermediaries between the human world and the spirit realm, custodians of ancient wisdom passed down through generations. Their training is rigorous, often beginning in childhood, marked by visions, near-death experiences, or signs from nature that signal their calling. Once chosen, a shaman must master sacred rituals, plant medicines, and the ability to journey into other realms.

Healing Beyond the Physical

Unlike Western medicine, which primarily focuses on the body, shamanic healing addresses the spiritual, emotional, and energetic causes of illness. Shamans use a combination of plant medicines, chants, drumming, and trance states to diagnose and heal. Ayahuasca, San Pedro, peyote, and other sacred plants are tools that allow them to access deeper layers of consciousness, often revealing the root of an ailment. However, this work is not without danger—both for the patient and the shaman. Misuse of spiritual power, improper ceremonies, or failing to respect the spirits can lead to illness, misfortune, or even death.

The Battle Between Light and Dark

The unseen world is not only filled with benevolent spirits. Many Indigenous cultures recognize the presence of malevolent forces—spirits, curses, and energetic attacks that can harm individuals and entire communities. A shaman must be skilled in protection rituals, cleansing ceremonies, and counteracting negative energies. In some traditions, rival shamans engage in spiritual combat, using knowledge of plants, spells, and spirit allies to weaken or defend against opponents. These battles can have real-world consequences, from mysterious illnesses to sudden strokes of bad luck that plague an individual or family.

Facing Modern Threats

Beyond their traditional responsibilities, shamans today face new challenges. Climate change, deforestation, and the destruction of sacred lands threaten their ability to gather medicinal plants and conduct ceremonies. Many authentic shamans are now at the forefront of environmental activism, fighting not just for their traditions but for the survival of the planet itself.  Exploitation of their knowledge by outsiders, often for commercial gain, has also led to a rise in fake shamans offering unregulated psychedelic tourism. This is especially troubling. The life of a shaman is a path of sacrifice and service, not profit and gain. And most definitely not for day-tripper tourists looking for their next ‘experience.’ The Shamanic world remains one of high stakes, whether battling illness, protecting their people from spiritual and physical threats, or navigating the forces of modernity.

In Summary

Shamans are warriors of the unseen, healers of the soul, and keepers of wisdom that modern society is only beginning to recognize. This fascinating world snagged my interest during my first road trip to New Mexico. Something about that state always called to me. My friend and I stayed at Ojo Caliente, a rustic hot springs spa north of Santa Fe. One afternoon while my friend napped, I took off for a hike.

During this trek, I experienced a wild, supernatural event that literally knocked me on my ass. Swirling within the forceful wind were ancient indigenous voices, sounds, and imagery. It spooked, and spoke to me at the same time. Incredible, and so unforgettable. Years later, I channelled that crazy experience into my debut novel, Completion. If you like twisty, psychological thrillers with a shot of supernatural suspense, I got you covered! 

A second edition of the book, along with a new cover, debuts later this year.

Stay tuned for the TV series. It’s going to be wild.

ACF CREATIVE