Journeying to the upper world is one of the most elevated and insightful experiences in shamanic practice. This journey takes you to a realm marked by light, higher spiritual beings, divine guides and cosmic wisdom. In shamanism's threefold division of reality, the upper world is the celestial domain where the shaman can draw insight, spiritual support and visions of the future that assist in both personal development and healing.
Imagine that you begin the journey with the calm, steady beat of the drum, either by listening to a recording or playing yourself. The rhythm of the drum acts as a bridge between your everyday consciousness and the spiritual levels you wish to reach. The sounds open the door to a higher dimension and help the mind lift from the concrete and material to the ethereal and light-filled.
The upper world is often described as a landscape of light, airy skies, glittering stars, high mountains and bright forests. It can feel both familiar and otherworldly. Here you meet beings of wisdom, gods, goddesses, ancestors with enlightened powers and other supportive guides. These figures are not merely present for observation but offer counsel, protection and guidance, often through symbols, wordless impressions or clear messages.
The journey to the upper world opens a space for seeing life from a larger perspective. You may receive insight into how various events connect, guidance on your own life themes, or spiritual power to strengthen your path forward. It is a place to draw both inspiration and clarity, and to listen to the higher currents of the universe.
It is important to approach the upper world with a clear and open intention, with respect and presence. The drum journey is once again the guide that brings you into and out of this experience, so that the journey becomes safe and meaningful. After the journey it is good to rest and integrate the insight, perhaps by reflecting or writing down what you have received.
Practical exercises for the journey to the upper world
Prepare for the journey
Find a quiet and comfortable place.
Have a drum or a recording with a steady drumbeat.
Use headphones for the best possible concentration and clarity of listening.
Close your eyes and let the body relax with deep breaths.
Set your intention
Make clear in your mind what you wish to gain from the journey, for example: "I want to receive guidance from my spiritual guides" or "I seek higher insight and power."
Norse drumjourneys by Shamanic association of Norway
Visualize the journey upward
Imagine that you climb a tall tree, ascend a shining staircase or fly up toward a radiant sky.
Feel how the energy in your body lifts you higher and higher.
Meet beings of light and guides
When you arrive in the high realm, let your eyes open within the journey to see the beings who wish to meet you.
Greet them and be open to guidance in the form of words, images or feelings.
Ask questions if you wish for answers or support.
Receive wisdom and power
Receive what is given to you, whether it is symbols, counsel, peace or energy.
Feel the presence of love, support and enlightenment.
End the journey
When it is time to return home, give thanks to your guides and beings of light.
Imagine that you slowly move downward from the high realm, back to the body and the physical space.
When you open your eyes, take a few minutes to sit in stillness and land.
Integrate and reflect
Write down the experiences, guidance or symbols you have received. Reflect on how you can apply this new insight in your daily life.
Journeying to the upper world is an encounter with the highest perspective in shamanism. It offers an entrance to cosmic wisdom and a wellspring of supportive forces that can accompany you on your path. With practice you will feel more secure and more at home in this dimension, and able to draw both power and clarity for all of life's challenges.
Welcome to a journey upward - toward light, insight and enlightenment.
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