In order to be an effective shamanic healer, one must first heal him/herself. It is imperative that the shamanic healer begin by confronting his/her own Shadow-side.

Everything has a dark side and the sooner we accept this, the sooner we can love all of existence for what it is.

The character of the Shadow is negative and is all the traits we keep hidden from the world and, most often, from ourselves.

We hide these traits to avoid being criticized and ostracized by family, friends, and society at large.

The Shadow (which I affectionately call my 'demon') has been with us from birth and will remain with us until death. It feeds on our negative feelings; self-doubt, discouragement, rejection, and depression, just to name a few.

The Shadow gains power when we dwell on these negative feelings and/or when we deny its existence altogether. It becomes our antithesis; our personal opposition and if left unchecked, the Shadow can and will take over our lives.

Nobody, and especially not a Shaman, can afford the risk of living in denial of the Shadow's existence. Simply put; it is folly and irresponsible to even try to do so. We must take control of and be responsible for our own existence before we can be entrusted with the healing of others.

Materials needed: Blanket & Rattle or Drum.

For this journey you should first make two lists; one listing your positive qualities, the other your negative qualities. Be honest.

Place a blanket on the floor of a dark room. Smudge your area and self. Lie on your back, breathe deeply and relax. When you are relaxed and comfortable begin to focus on your negative traits. Notice how they've weakened you or strengthened you.

Next, state your intentions; 'I seek my Shadow-Self' and begin to rattle or drum in a steady rhythm, until you begin to feel a shift in your consciousness.

Go to your entrance into the lower world. Your guides will be waiting for you already. Mentally state your intention to your guides. They will know the places to look for your Shadow.

Most likely your Shadow will not be easily found. It will run and it will hide because it does not want to be found. It may flee into the upper world, so you will have to climb the World Tree to get there. Your guides will continue to help you on your search.

Wherever it may be, when you do find it, approach it with the utmost respect and confidence. Some shadows can be aggressive, but you are in a place where you can manifest the things you may need, so manifest a weapon, such as a staff or sword for your defence. Do not wield your weapon with the intent to destroy or you will kill a vital part of yourself. Some shadows will simply flee again.