What Is Shamanism?

In this episode of The Modern Sages Podcast, Shaman Candace Kunze and Spirit Medium Jenn Gilbreth take a grounded and heart-centered look at what shamanism truly is — and what it’s not.

So much misunderstanding still surrounds this ancient healing path. In this conversation, Jenn and Candace explore three of the most common misconceptions about shamanism and offer a deeper understanding of how these earth-based practices continue to guide humanity back into harmony with Spirit and the Earth.

What Is a Shaman?

Shamanism is not tied to any one culture or belief system — it’s as old as humanity itself.

While the word “shaman” originates from the Tungus tribe of Siberia and translates to “one who knows” or “one who sees in the dark,” the practices of soul healing, nature connection, and working with Spirit have appeared in cultures all over the world.

At its heart, a Shaman is a bridge — one who walks between worlds to bring healing, guidance, and balance to the community.

This path is not about titles or hierarchy; it’s about relationship — with the Earth, the ancestors, the elements, and the unseen realms.

Is Shamanism a Religion?

Shamanism is not a religion — it’s a spiritual and healing path rooted in direct experience with the divine.
Rather than following a set of doctrines or dogmas, it encourages personal connection with Spirit through nature, intuition, and lived experience.

While many world religions may have evolved from early shamanic traditions, shamanism itself is a way of being — one that can deepen, not replace, your existing faith or spiritual beliefs.
It’s about remembering that Spirit lives in all things, and that healing comes from reawakening our connection to the natural and unseen worlds.

Do All Shamans Use Plant Medicine?

This is one of the most common misconceptions — and one that deserves clarity.
While some shamans or traditional healers work with plant allies or sacred medicines, not all do.

As Modern-Day Shamans and Medicine Women, Jenn and Candace focus on healing through other powerful and accessible practices — including breathwork, journey work, energy healing, emotional integration, sacred ceremony, and deep spiritual processing.
True shamanic healing is about cultivating a direct, safe, and conscious relationship with Spirit — not relying on external substances.

Shamanism as a Way of Life

Shamanism invites us to see the sacred in the ordinary — to live in right relationship with ourselves, the Earth, and all beings. It reminds us that everything is connected and that healing is not only personal but collective.

When you walk the shamanic path, every moment becomes ceremony. Every breath becomes prayer. Every relationship becomes a teacher.