In shamanic tradition, reality is understood as threefold: the upper world – the place of higher spirits and cosmic wisdom; the middle world – our waking, physical, but also magical everyday plane; and the lower world – a deep and powerful realm where the shaman finds their roots, sources of power and ancient allies. When one begins one's shamanic journey, it is usually the lower world one visits first. Not because it is more important than the others, but because it often provides a solid foundation: contact with power animals, ancestral forces and the very source of life force.
The lower world is in no way a "hell" or a place of punishment, as the name may suggest in Western culture. Instead it is a safe and rich spiritual landscape – earth-warm, living and sustaining. It is associated with symbols such as roots, caves, rivers, great stones or gateways in nature. Here lie sources of power that have been with humanity since the dawn of time.
To journey there is like descending into the heart of the earth and meeting the wisdom that lies hidden beneath the noise of thought. Here you can find your power animal, receive counsel from the oldest spirits of nature, and draw strength for healing and personal transformation.
The drum journey as the key
To reach the lower world you must master the drum journey – the very tool the shaman uses to travel between worlds. Whether you beat your own drum or listen to a finished sound recording, the drum will open an inner gateway. The sound and rhythm act as a "vehicle" for consciousness – you glide gradually out of your ordinary thought patterns and into a state where the spiritual geography becomes visible.
Before you begin your first journey, you set a clear intention. It may be to meet your power animal, to draw strength for a challenge, or simply to explore the landscape to get to know it. The intention is your compass on the spiritual journey and helps you stay focused.
Norse drumjourneys by Shamanic association of Norway
Entering the lower world
Many find that the entrance to the lower world appears as an opening in nature: a cave, a crack in the rock, a large root opening beneath a tree, a hole in the ground or a boulder you can "step through." This gateway leads to a tunnel, stairway or natural passage, often with a sense of moving ever deeper.
When you come out on the other side, the landscape reveals itself – perhaps a lush underground forest bathed in green light, a great cave filled with crystals, or a quiet shore beneath a dark sky. Here you can meet your helpers: power animals, spiritual teachers or nature spirits who wish to work with you.
These encounters are often symbolic, yet at the same time strongly emotional. An animal may come to you and show its strength, or you may be led to an object or a place that holds significance for healing or insight. Your task is to receive – to observe, listen and communicate with respect.
Returning
When it is time to return home, you give thanks to the beings and forces you have met. Then you walk or follow the path back the same way you came. You let the rhythm of the drum carry you back to your body, and give yourself a few minutes in silence to settle completely.
After the journey it is recommended to write down everything you remember – details, feelings, symbols, messages – to preserve the experience and to be able to interpret it better later.
The lower world is a place you can return to again and again. Each time it can give you new layers of wisdom, strength and healing, and it often becomes a personal spiritual home for the shaman.
Practical exercises – your first journey to the lower world
Preparation
Find a quiet place where you will not be disturbed.
Have a drum or a sound recording with a steady rhythm. Headphones are recommended to shut out external sounds; some also find it helpful to wear a scarf or sleep mask over the eyes.
Lie down or sit comfortably. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths.
Set an intention
Formulate clearly and simply what you wish from the journey: "I wish to meet my power animal" or "I wish to draw strength from the lower world."
Visualise the entrance
Imagine an opening in nature – a tunnel, cave, root opening or the like.
Begin the journey by "going in" and following the path downward.
Explore the landscape
When you arrive, look around and sense the atmosphere.
If you meet animals or beings, greet them with respect. Ask questions, ask for advice, and listen to the answers.
Receive power and wisdom
Allow yourself to receive gifts, symbols or messages.
Remind yourself that everything that comes has a purpose, even though the understanding may come later.
Closing and return
When you hear the drum's recall rhythm, give thanks for the encounter and follow the path back.
Sense your way back into your body, breathe deeply, and open your eyes.
Integrate the experience
Write down everything you remember.
Reflect: How can what you have experienced help you in life?
Do not be disheartened if you do not manage it the first time. It can take a little time and a few attempts. Remember too that impressions may come as quick images, smells, feelings, tastes. Not everyone sees it as a clear film.
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