A Shamanic Journey
When people first begin a shamanic journey, there’s often a subtle (or not-so-subtle) expectation that it will play out like a blockbuster movie in their mind.
Full of vivid, cinematic scenes with crystal-clear guides, lush landscapes, and perfectly framed messages from Spirit. If this is what you’ve been waiting for, it’s time for a reality check.
Your shamanic journey is NOT a movie. And if you’re expecting it to be, you’re likely missing the subtle magic that’s already present.
Here’s the truth – Shamanic journeying is an experience, not a production. It’s raw, organic, and often unpredictable. It’s not “Netflix for your mind” but something much deeper—a chance to access the parts of yourself and the unseen world that aren’t bound by logic or storytelling rules.
The Problem with “Movie Mindset”
If you’re waiting for stunning visuals, flawless soundtracks, and clear dialogue, you’ll be waiting forever. Expecting a “movie” puts you in the role of passive observer when, in reality, you’re supposed to be an active participant.
This expectation can block your ability to notice the actual symbols, messages, and feelings that arise. It’s like waiting for a grand parade to march past while ignoring the soft rustle of leaves that’s already happening around you.
Here’s why the “movie mindset” doesn’t work –
- It demands perfection – The subconscious doesn’t care about crisp visuals. It speaks in layers of sensation, flashes of imagery, and “gut knowings.”
- It triggers self-doubt – If you’re “waiting for the movie,” you’ll think you’re “doing it wrong” when your journey feels more like fog and flickers than full scenes.
- It ignores the body’s role – Visions aren’t always visual. Sometimes, they’re felt in the body—a sensation, a shift, or a knowing.
How the Subtle Magic Actually Works
If a “movie” isn’t what’s supposed to happen, what is supposed to happen?
Here’s the truth – anything.
The unseen world doesn’t follow a script. Messages may come as symbols, flashes, colours, bodily sensations, emotions, or words that just “pop” into your mind. Sometimes, you’ll get vivid scenes, but often, you’ll receive something more subtle.
Here’s what might actually happen –
Body Sensations – Tingling in your hands, warmth in your chest, or a pulling sensation in your gut. This is guidance.
Flashes of Imagery – You might see a wolf—but only briefly. Your mind might tell you, “I’m making it up,” but it’s worth exploring.
Sound, Song, or Internal Voice – You may “hear” a single phrase like “Wait here” or “Look left.” Take it seriously.
Emotional Swells – You’re suddenly overwhelmed with grief, joy, or courage—that’s a message.
Direct Knowing – This is the strongest but most overlooked type of message. You simply know something new. No explanation required.
When you’re in the unseen realms, it’s essential to trust whatever shows up. It’s not supposed to make sense right away. In fact, if it’s “weird” or “random,” that’s often a sign it’s real.
How to Break Free from “Movie Mode”
If you’re ready to experience journeying as it’s meant to be, here’s how to break out of “movie mode” and shift into active participation.
1. Embrace “Subtle is Sacred”
Not all messages are loud. Most are whispers. Get comfortable with subtlety. If you see a flash of an image or feel something small in your chest, don’t dismiss it. Lean into it.
2. Stop Asking for “Clarity”
Many people journey with the expectation that everything will be “clear.” This word alone creates pressure. Replace “clarity” with “presence.” Show up for whatever is there, even if it’s foggy or unclear. Fog is a message too.
3. Ditch the “I’m Making It Up” Narrative
This is a big one. Your logical mind will try to convince you that you’re “just imagining it.” Here’s the truth – Your imagination is part of the toolset. Your guides use it to communicate. The difference is that you didn’t consciously create it. You didn’t “plan” to see a stag, but it appeared anyway. Trust it.
4. Ask Your Body
If your visual field is blank, ask your body. Say, “Where do I feel it in my body?” If you feel a pull in your chest or warmth in your hands, bring your attention there. Your body’s sensations are part of your guide’s communication.
5. Stay with “Uncertainty”
If you’re waiting for the “big reveal,” you’ll miss the moment. Mystery is baked into the process. Stay with it. Ask – What’s here right now? Notice textures, feelings, and shifts. It’s enough.
6. Journal
After a journey, write down everything, even if it seems random or meaningless. The connections often come later. It’s like a dream—the full meaning might not land until a week later.
7. Welcome “Weird”
Weird is good. Weird is right. If you’re visited by a talking blue otter holding a spoon, don’t brush it off. It’s not “nonsense”; it’s a symbol. Ask – “What does the otter have to teach me about this situation?” Weird imagery is often the most profound.
Reflection Questions
- What expectations do you hold about how a journey should look or feel?
- Have you dismissed subtle guidance before? What might change if you paid attention to it?
- How do you feel about “not knowing” or “not being sure” during a journey? Can you make peace with it?
The Gift of Letting Go
When you release the need for perfection, clarity, and “movies,” the unseen world opens up in ways you’ve never experienced. You’ll see symbols you’d never have imagined. You’ll feel sensations you can’t explain. Your guides will “speak” in a language you’ve never heard.
This is the beauty of shamanic journeying. It’s not a movie. It’s better.
Trust:
- the flashes.
- feelings.
- the weird.