Our True Self

The recovery of the true self is the basic goal of much of shamanic healing. The full and authentic expression of a person is known as their true self. This is the complete expression of the qualities and aspects that are one’s essential nature, or in other words, their perfect self, which is also their best nature. The true self can be considered a ‘blueprint’ of who one really is. Strong, steady, and loving, the true self can be considered our closest source of empowerment and healing. Thus, for shamanic practitioners or their clients, any work that contributes to strengthening a relationship with one's true self, or the recovery of its fullness, is crucial.

I have never met a person who was not aware of sometimes behaving or being different from how he or she knew they truly were, deep down inside. Human beings are subject to powerful forces that assail their healthy, vital personhood. Bitter cultural and individual experiences one encounters along their life path can stunt and limit, sometimes even entirely, the full expression of that healthy, vital person.

Our true self, in the same manner as a shamanic spirit teacher or spirit helper in animal form (power animal), is not only our full and complete self, but can also serve us as a powerful helper. It is believed that strengthening our relationship with our true self can allow us to withstand tremendous life pressures.

For most people, reality is consensual, and by this I mean it is something socially agreed upon and shared. Though the ‘agreement’ may be an unconscious and automatic acceptance, the social construction of reality strongly influences the manner in which an individual comes to understand, experience and know his or her own self.

Shamanism challenges the everyday consensus of reality, including the nature of who one 'is'. Seeking to recover the lost self parts, shamanism engages a return to wholeness. For many people, this is the gathering and rediscovery of their true self.

When one finally meets their true self, it can be an extraordinarily powerful event. The actual shape, age, and form of the true self varies as widely as can be imagined, for it is as varied as there are individuals on the planet! However, the true self is one who is living into their full capability. This is the promise of what one can fully be if they allow him or herself to 'be' this. It is the fruition of their ancestral heritage.