"Our goal in doing soul retrievals is to fill up a person with their own self, so they have the energy to create their lives in a meaningful way."
Michael Harner
Michael Harner
The Concept of Soul Retrieval?
Think of your Soul as your mirror image looking back at you while you look into the mirror. A sudden impact breaks the mirror, it shakes, some pieces fall off and scatter. They may land on the counter or down on the floor below. Now the mirror is marked by cracks with chunks missing and the image looking back at you is fragmented. The shattered pieces are still nearby as you stoop to gather them up. A Soul Retrieval is like finding the pieces of the mirror that have gone missing and restoring it. Looking into the mirror you see your reflection as whole, complete and the "soul" pieces are visible once again.
People cannot live an authentic life when their soul parts are out of reach. We experience various moments when the mirror shatters and our soul is convinced it is not safe so it says, "I'm outta here!" In those moments a portion of the soul splinters or leaves the body completely. From that point on, a portion of the soul might not be able to return on it's own or refuses to do so. The Soul part takes up residence somewhere in "non-ordinary reality", the "shamanic universe" or "world of spirit" until such time that it can be safely reunited with the body. Shamans believe that soul loss is the most common source of illness, depression and chronic fatigue, as well as a variety of mental and emotional disorders. Soul retrieval can also be used to help Nature shift the balance of energies in places. Whole sections of land can be imprinted with the emotional ravages of war or lose something due to trauma caused by physical pollution and other damage. Animals also benefit from Soul Retrievals. For the purpose of this webpage, we are concentrating on humans...
People cannot live an authentic life when their soul parts are out of reach. We experience various moments when the mirror shatters and our soul is convinced it is not safe so it says, "I'm outta here!" In those moments a portion of the soul splinters or leaves the body completely. From that point on, a portion of the soul might not be able to return on it's own or refuses to do so. The Soul part takes up residence somewhere in "non-ordinary reality", the "shamanic universe" or "world of spirit" until such time that it can be safely reunited with the body. Shamans believe that soul loss is the most common source of illness, depression and chronic fatigue, as well as a variety of mental and emotional disorders. Soul retrieval can also be used to help Nature shift the balance of energies in places. Whole sections of land can be imprinted with the emotional ravages of war or lose something due to trauma caused by physical pollution and other damage. Animals also benefit from Soul Retrievals. For the purpose of this webpage, we are concentrating on humans...
If you've ever experienced a feeling of not quite being complete, you are probably stuck in one or more states of soul loss like I was. I first heard the term Soul Retrieval mentioned at the end of a Harner method workshop on how to journey and find a Power Animal back in 1990. My immediate response was to ask, "Where can I get one of those? I don't care what it is because I just need one!". My body simply resonated with the words. Looking back, I realize that my symptoms were classic; bouts of depression, loss of memory during childhood and a need to heal the wounds of traumatic physical, mental and emotional abuse suffered at the hands of a schizophrenic teenage boyfriend. I felt like Humpty Dumpty scattered in a dozen pieces at the bottom of a wall. I made an appointment with the Shaman three days later and in that session five soul parts returned; a two year old (recurring illness culminating in a near death experience), a six year old (compartmentalized into three totally separate aspects of rage, shame and frozen dreams) and an angry sixteen year old warrioress carrying a sword... talk about getting power back! The Kings horses really can put Humpty Dumpty back together again but that was just the beginning of my initiatory healing process. This metaphor and personal understanding offered me a unique perspective on people with multiple personalities and people who don't seem to be "all here". From the moment of my birth as a split breech, (another point of soul retrieval for me) I have been able to "Walk in both worlds" simultaneously.
Shortly thereafter, I was asked by this same Shaman to drum for him while he journeyed to retrieve soul parts for his clients. Having absolutely no prior knowledge, I would see and experience details of the clients life during my drumming. Over the next six months, I was taught by my Ancestors, Guides and Power Animals how to perform soul retrievals on my own while drumming for myself.
My greatest teaching experiences have been my personal tragedies and challenges. Not that I really want more but they did lead me out of the mistaken belief that my soul was disconnected from the Great Spirit and Nature. No longer held up or stuck in the past, I have been empowered to move forward and live my life with a sense of wholeness, creativity and productivity. As a result, I accepted the call of the Spirits to follow in my Ancestral footsteps and become a Medicine Woman. For over forty thousand years Shamans have journeyed to non-ordinary reality. I've only been doing it for twenty or more.
Shortly thereafter, I was asked by this same Shaman to drum for him while he journeyed to retrieve soul parts for his clients. Having absolutely no prior knowledge, I would see and experience details of the clients life during my drumming. Over the next six months, I was taught by my Ancestors, Guides and Power Animals how to perform soul retrievals on my own while drumming for myself.
My greatest teaching experiences have been my personal tragedies and challenges. Not that I really want more but they did lead me out of the mistaken belief that my soul was disconnected from the Great Spirit and Nature. No longer held up or stuck in the past, I have been empowered to move forward and live my life with a sense of wholeness, creativity and productivity. As a result, I accepted the call of the Spirits to follow in my Ancestral footsteps and become a Medicine Woman. For over forty thousand years Shamans have journeyed to non-ordinary reality. I've only been doing it for twenty or more.
"Beside himself." Why do we describe a distraught person as being beside himself?
Because the ancients believed that soul and body could part, and that under great emotional stress the soul would actually leave the body.
When this happened a person was "beside himself."
- Dictionary of Word Origins
Because the ancients believed that soul and body could part, and that under great emotional stress the soul would actually leave the body.
When this happened a person was "beside himself."
- Dictionary of Word Origins
Soul loss occurs as a result of physical, mental, emotional, spiritual trauma or abuse and any combination thereof. Parts of the soul literally leave the body because some events are too painful to endure while maintaining conscious awareness at the same time. A shock or trauma can be anything from a near death experience to being startled by a sudden noise! In that particular moment the soul is convinced that it is in big trouble or it can't stay. Soul parts can leave for any number of reasons; a child who doesn't want to move to another place might leave a soul part in their old hometown or an adult might have given a soul part to a lover saying, "but I gave you my heart".
Parts of the soul may leave the body due to:
a major illness, a medical crisis, sports or vehicle accidents and or surgery, an intense emotional exchange with a loved one, divorce or separation from a partner, breakup of a relationship, the death of a loved one including pets, living in a dysfunctional family, alcoholism, substance abuse and or drug use, physical violation and or sexual abuse, rape, abortion or miscarriage, combat trauma, loss of a job, a change in residence or culture shock due to a move to another city or country. Most people will quite readily resonate with the idea of having left a part of themselves somewhere else. It seems to be a natural way of identifying with the situation.
A "piece" or "soul part" could be a body part or a subset of personal memories, qualities, abilities and or feelings.
When a soul part leaves it takes some aspects of the personality and a chunk of our life-force or vital energy with it. That aspect might be trust, creativity or personal power. The larger part of the person that remains present is disconnected from those qualities and a portion of their spiritual energy is unavailable. The soul part has a consciousness of its own that contributes to the whole. One way or another, suspicions arise that something is stuck or missing. The idea might come up while working on an issue or a person might be searching for a solution to a problem to no avail. Obviously, it is important to get that part or that aspect back. Sometimes this happens spontaneously; sometimes really good therapy can bring a soul part home.
Parts of the soul may leave the body due to:
a major illness, a medical crisis, sports or vehicle accidents and or surgery, an intense emotional exchange with a loved one, divorce or separation from a partner, breakup of a relationship, the death of a loved one including pets, living in a dysfunctional family, alcoholism, substance abuse and or drug use, physical violation and or sexual abuse, rape, abortion or miscarriage, combat trauma, loss of a job, a change in residence or culture shock due to a move to another city or country. Most people will quite readily resonate with the idea of having left a part of themselves somewhere else. It seems to be a natural way of identifying with the situation.
A "piece" or "soul part" could be a body part or a subset of personal memories, qualities, abilities and or feelings.
When a soul part leaves it takes some aspects of the personality and a chunk of our life-force or vital energy with it. That aspect might be trust, creativity or personal power. The larger part of the person that remains present is disconnected from those qualities and a portion of their spiritual energy is unavailable. The soul part has a consciousness of its own that contributes to the whole. One way or another, suspicions arise that something is stuck or missing. The idea might come up while working on an issue or a person might be searching for a solution to a problem to no avail. Obviously, it is important to get that part or that aspect back. Sometimes this happens spontaneously; sometimes really good therapy can bring a soul part home.
Where is that part now?
It could be living in the past, close to the body but not in it, stuck in someone else's collection or it could be hiding...
The most common answer is that the soul part is probably still in the past at the age where one originally separated from it. But anything is possible. A soul part can be stuck in an alternate dimension especially after a near death experience. Sometimes a child will stay in a favorite room or playground or escape to a safe, fairy tale kind of place during sexual or physical abuse and remain there while the rest of the personality grows into adulthood. Even if a person has "lost the will to live", that soul part is hanging around somewhere. A soul part might have settled at the bottom of an empty booze bottle 16 years ago, asleep, but it can be found and brought back!
The most common answer is that the soul part is probably still in the past at the age where one originally separated from it. But anything is possible. A soul part can be stuck in an alternate dimension especially after a near death experience. Sometimes a child will stay in a favorite room or playground or escape to a safe, fairy tale kind of place during sexual or physical abuse and remain there while the rest of the personality grows into adulthood. Even if a person has "lost the will to live", that soul part is hanging around somewhere. A soul part might have settled at the bottom of an empty booze bottle 16 years ago, asleep, but it can be found and brought back!
What could the soul part be doing?
When we confront pain too great to bear, parts of our soul leave to inhabit a different place in the same way we might put something away in a drawer for safe keeping. Most often it is just stuck waiting for someone to rescue it or it might appear to have a complete life of its own when found. A childlike soul part might still be playing amongst the autumn leaves, in the back yard of an old house having a good time. Incest survivors often remember the experience of being molested from the perspective of looking down at their body. This enables that child to survive the trauma but then the person matures with less personal power. People in severe car accidents often recall out of body experiences. However, if the soul does not return then problems will arise and the body can develop the need to repeat attention getting accidents. The person may not have enough natural spiritual vitality to ward off disease, depression, fatigue or another disaster.
What are the symptoms of soul loss?
Symptoms of soul loss present themselves as different combinations for everyone.
Pay attention to the warning signs such as... -you're not all here, nobody's home -feeling ungrounded, "spacey", daydreaming -scattered, disassociated, disconnected, a lack of focus -acting as if something is missing The eyes may be the windows to the soul but sometimes they can appear vacant... You may have a feeling of emptiness, of "I have no heart for this", or think "there's a big hole inside me". -feelings of being dead inside, emotional numbness -no sense of direction or purpose in life -observing life as an outsider rather than being fully involved, inability to trust others -excessive anger or a limited range of emotional expression -depression at any level, hopelessness, fatigue, extreme sadness -sleep a lot and feel apathetic -over reaction to stimulus or events -post traumatic stress disorder -pervasive fear, phobias, panic attacks Other signals show up in the areas of... -loss of self-confidence, low self-esteem -a weakened immune system, low resistance to infections -chronic or childhood illness -senses may seem muffled -blocks of memory loss covering days, months or years -alcoholic blackouts, surviving drug overdoses -continuous themes or patterns that repeat throughout life, -misfortune, feeling stuck in a rut Various addictions such as drugs and alcohol, entertainment or compulsive sex all mask underlying unmet needs. |
The effects of soul loss
are akin to playing the game of Solitaire. If we do not have all the cards in the deck present on the table while playing the game, we have no chance of moving past a certain point. Another person comes along, sees the missing cards (soul parts) under the table and hands them back to the player. Now the game changes and the odds of winning are at hand. To remedy this loss, a Shaman or Shamanic Practitioner can be petitioned to call back the missing soul parts. Soul parts can be held up by persons, places, things, organizations or situations in this world or the after-life. Cultures around the world have ceremonies for soul retrieval performed by a Medicine person or Shaman. The Shaman enters into a light trance or a lucid dreamlike state and travels into the past or alternate realities to find missing pieces of the spirit sick person and brings those pieces back to the patient.
Recurring dreams of childhood, encounters with younger versions of the self and the absence of dream recall are often strong indicators of soul loss. When a soul is fragmented one may no longer remember the details of the traumatic incidents that caused the fragmentation. The lost soul part has taken those memories with it. When a soul part leaves, it takes with it a measure of one's vitality. The more severe the trauma, the more life force is depleted. If fragmentation is severe enough illnesses such as schizophrenia may occur and the person may become host to negative entity attachments. There have been times when a client's unresolved issues from "past lives" need to be addressed in a soul retrieval. The root of a pattern can be found to originate in the past life experience.
In our Western culture it is the exception rather than the norm for people to feel whole. Because someone does not feel whole, they look outside themselves to be filled; with addictions, codependent or abusive relationships, workaholism or the endless pursuit of spiritual highs. How we treat ourselves is a reflection of how we treat the world around us.
Recurring dreams of childhood, encounters with younger versions of the self and the absence of dream recall are often strong indicators of soul loss. When a soul is fragmented one may no longer remember the details of the traumatic incidents that caused the fragmentation. The lost soul part has taken those memories with it. When a soul part leaves, it takes with it a measure of one's vitality. The more severe the trauma, the more life force is depleted. If fragmentation is severe enough illnesses such as schizophrenia may occur and the person may become host to negative entity attachments. There have been times when a client's unresolved issues from "past lives" need to be addressed in a soul retrieval. The root of a pattern can be found to originate in the past life experience.
In our Western culture it is the exception rather than the norm for people to feel whole. Because someone does not feel whole, they look outside themselves to be filled; with addictions, codependent or abusive relationships, workaholism or the endless pursuit of spiritual highs. How we treat ourselves is a reflection of how we treat the world around us.
Was it lost, stolen or given away?
Specific clues about lost soul parts can be heard in people's language... "My sense of security has gone out the window", "I lost my innocence", "He stole my heart", "She had me by the balls", "My allegiance is still with the company", "I have no memory of those years at all", "I loved that place, I wish we had never moved". Soul Retrieval is the recovery of those parts that a person left behind, lost somewhere or stole from someone else.
Soul stealing is rampant in western society as one person takes power from another and tries to use it for their own purpose. When you want closure from a relationship but can't seem to get it and that relationship feels like you're on a merry go round, that other person is probably holding your some of your energy. If you find yourself mired in the essential pain of anger, grief, sadness or depression, the relationship still has you in it's grip and you haven't let go. If you cannot forgive and move on then you become the weakest link as your power is directed to another place, another time and another being. This kind of situation serves neither party. So the question may be asked, "whose soul might you have a piece of"?
Sexual abuse often involves a web of soul loss and theft. A mother or father, uncle or grandparent may have been the predator or the thief. A soul retrieval can help you return stolen soul parts. If the part was stolen or is in someone else's possession unawares, the Shaman can negotiate terms for it's return. It is preferable to work out a mutually agreeable exchange but sometimes just retrieving it is necessary.
Soul stealing is rampant in western society as one person takes power from another and tries to use it for their own purpose. When you want closure from a relationship but can't seem to get it and that relationship feels like you're on a merry go round, that other person is probably holding your some of your energy. If you find yourself mired in the essential pain of anger, grief, sadness or depression, the relationship still has you in it's grip and you haven't let go. If you cannot forgive and move on then you become the weakest link as your power is directed to another place, another time and another being. This kind of situation serves neither party. So the question may be asked, "whose soul might you have a piece of"?
Sexual abuse often involves a web of soul loss and theft. A mother or father, uncle or grandparent may have been the predator or the thief. A soul retrieval can help you return stolen soul parts. If the part was stolen or is in someone else's possession unawares, the Shaman can negotiate terms for it's return. It is preferable to work out a mutually agreeable exchange but sometimes just retrieving it is necessary.
"I once worked with a sixteen year old boy that was labelled a sexual predator. During his soul retrieval we discovered that he was hanging onto a piece of a little girl that he had raped. He sent that piece back to her. In the journey he also stood up to his father who had raped him as a young child and took that child part back to himself. His power animal came to him as an Orca Whale. Suddenly, he understood the cycle of abuse and was able to break it. He forgave himself and his father their transgressions while crying. He was moved from a detention center to a specialized facility for boys a few days later. Six months down the road he was well on his way to recovery, able to reclaim a healthier life style."
Another phenomenon that occurs is the "soul gift". Someone has given the client a part of themselves or the other way around. A client might have given a piece of their soul away to a boyfriend, an adult, a teacher, etc. A child will often think they must give a piece of themselves away to a parent in order to make that parent feel better. This type of giving away one's power happens in relationships when neither the recipient nor the giver are consciously aware of the agreement. It becomes imperative to restore that which has been given away to help the client feel whole and present again.
Ultimately it comes around to forgiveness. If you cannot forgive another person for their transgressions, you are ignoring or giving away your power. The worst pain is the "blessed wound", it offers the greatest gift.
Ultimately it comes around to forgiveness. If you cannot forgive another person for their transgressions, you are ignoring or giving away your power. The worst pain is the "blessed wound", it offers the greatest gift.
Can I do my own soul retrieval?
Mostly No... but sometimes Yes.
You can to the degree that you are able to set your intention to "I want all my energy back, now!" This jump starts the process into motion. You can start to call back your power with the help of a new moon process. The cyclic energy of the New Moon is that of beginning anew. Follow the new moon energy for three consecutive cycles while tracking and recording your dreams and writing in a journal. Read the New Moon Journal written by Sandra Ingerman as a guide. There is a bond between the Moon and the Earth (which includes the human body). This bond is important to understand, it is active, not passive, it emits a driving energy that seeks to maintain connection. This dynamic actively seeks to reach out to, connect with and create an extended reality beyond that which it would have experienced had it remained isolated. Attuning to the moon helps us to expand and experience a broader reality of ourselves. |
Mostly No, because a person in a weakened state cannot muster the energetic strength necessary to defend or carry themselves into the Spirit Realms safely and return unscathed. It's a catch-22 situation. If you leave your house for a vacation with the lights on and the front door wide open, doesn't that look like an invitation? Someone is bound to be drawn to the warmth of the light and be curious. It is the same in the spirit world. A wandering spirit will be attracted to the light, find no one home and take up residence. Then the person returning from vacation enters the house and finds a bigger problem to deal with. The problem originated in the fact that an uneducated person went traveling without a Spirit Guide or some form of protection in the first place.
Soul loss and children?When a child experiences trauma, they might not have the vocabulary
to communicate to parents the essence of what has happened to them. Divorce, moving from a childhood home to a strange new place, loss of a pet or best friend, severe nightmares and chronic illness can cause soul loss in a child... |
The youngest person I shared a Soul Retrieval with was six years old. This little boy was incredibly receptive to meeting his Power Animal, a big male Lion. A few days later he reported to me that his lion had scared off the bad guys. His mother gave him a stuffed lion to sleep with. The Lion was accepted as a protector while he slept and he suffered no more nightmares after that.
During one of my "flashbacks" I found myself pushing my forehead into the mattress along with my behind raised in the air. My mother used to tell me how she would find me in that position in my crib. There was a brilliant flash of white light and suddenly I was free! I could hear Angels singing amongst vibrant swirling pastel colors. The feeling was glorious yet indescribable! I wanted to stay with them! I wanted to go home! But they bade me return to my little body. How I resisted the thought...
Before the soul retrieval I had very few memories of my childhood, I blocked out the memories and the emotions of the traumas. I suffered through bouts of tonsillitis and fevers seven times before the age of two until I finally had them removed in the hospital. I used to have nightmares about houses consumed by flames. (And I named my wolf, Phoenix - no coincidence there...) After my soul retrieval I endured horrendous flashbacks as my memories surfaced to be released. Unfortunately, remembering moments of chronic illness as well as later sexual abuse is never pleasant or easy but the emotional releases eventually brought peace. It was during one of these flashbacks that I realized that I had "died in the crib" that day but had also lived even though I wasn't happy about it. When the soul parts returned I was able to fully grieve their loss. The memories tied to that time in my life came back and were restored. They weren't all bad. Years later I met a client who had also died as a child and remembered her own experience. I was able to bring her "some energy from that place" along with her soul part so she could always remember what is was like to feel loved and completely safe anytime she wanted. Because I resonated with her soul loss, I now carry the lovely body memory of that place inside myself too.
During one of my "flashbacks" I found myself pushing my forehead into the mattress along with my behind raised in the air. My mother used to tell me how she would find me in that position in my crib. There was a brilliant flash of white light and suddenly I was free! I could hear Angels singing amongst vibrant swirling pastel colors. The feeling was glorious yet indescribable! I wanted to stay with them! I wanted to go home! But they bade me return to my little body. How I resisted the thought...
Before the soul retrieval I had very few memories of my childhood, I blocked out the memories and the emotions of the traumas. I suffered through bouts of tonsillitis and fevers seven times before the age of two until I finally had them removed in the hospital. I used to have nightmares about houses consumed by flames. (And I named my wolf, Phoenix - no coincidence there...) After my soul retrieval I endured horrendous flashbacks as my memories surfaced to be released. Unfortunately, remembering moments of chronic illness as well as later sexual abuse is never pleasant or easy but the emotional releases eventually brought peace. It was during one of these flashbacks that I realized that I had "died in the crib" that day but had also lived even though I wasn't happy about it. When the soul parts returned I was able to fully grieve their loss. The memories tied to that time in my life came back and were restored. They weren't all bad. Years later I met a client who had also died as a child and remembered her own experience. I was able to bring her "some energy from that place" along with her soul part so she could always remember what is was like to feel loved and completely safe anytime she wanted. Because I resonated with her soul loss, I now carry the lovely body memory of that place inside myself too.
Adults with returning childlike soul parts find that creative spark has returned as well. Writing or artistic endeavors take off in new, exciting directions as they begin to balance their lives with a sense of wonder and play again.
Asking the soul part to return...
Working with their Spirit Helpers in non-ordinary reality, the Shaman calls the client's power to return. A Soul retrieval may restore power, energy and vitality to the client but it is not a given that a particular soul part is willing to return. There are reasons for the disconnect. Once the client grasps the reality of the situation, the grief of having lost a soul part or the happiness of the reunion will come into full awareness. Each soul part is another version of the client with different qualities, likes and dislikes, maybe even a younger or thinner body than what the client has at present. Communication is encouraged. The client and their soul parts must exchange information to become familiar with each other again or agree to spend time to simply be with each other in order to reintegrate. The client can have any kind of conversation with the soul part that feels right. Soul retrievals bring change, healing and emotions that need to be acknowledged and processed. Sometimes it is necessary to take the soul part through a change during the retrieval. If it is a child, it might need to grow up. The soul part can be guided through a process of transformation and brought forward into present time. Retrieved parts may need to encounter a different sequence of actions. Some events can be "rewoven" to accommodate a different body memory for the purpose of self-empowerment. Connecting to the divine, radiant energy of the Higher Self and bringing it into a fuller embodiment of clarity and purpose is also possible.
There are times when a soul part will return by itself. Can you recall a time when something frightened or startled you? Remember how you felt... shaky, wary, cautious and or your heart was pounding in your chest? What did you feel as you made the return to a calm, normal state again? In mild instances, Soul energy does return on it's own. Soul Retrieval is recommended when the effects of shock are lingering or last a long time.
There are times when a soul part will return by itself. Can you recall a time when something frightened or startled you? Remember how you felt... shaky, wary, cautious and or your heart was pounding in your chest? What did you feel as you made the return to a calm, normal state again? In mild instances, Soul energy does return on it's own. Soul Retrieval is recommended when the effects of shock are lingering or last a long time.
Would more than one session be necessary?
Soul retrieval is not something to be done many times. It is a major action that changes a person's life. Although we all probably have missing soul parts due to some kind of shock or trauma, not every person wants or needs a soul retrieval. If you feel that your life is functioning well and you don’t have any of the symptoms mentioned above there's no need to fix something that isn't broken.
A drumming journey to non-ordinary reality reveals one to three missing soul parts per session. Usually only one or maybe two sessions are required to bring back the significant soul parts that a client needs to move into wholeness. Results are varied and depend on the individual. It's like an energizer bunny, how long can you hold the charge? Some feel instantaneous change but for others the change is slow and subtle. Destructive family patterns that have repeated over generations may finally come to an end. When we are totally present in our bodies, we can no longer tolerate behaviors that were self-destructive. Addictions can be replaced with satisfaction and balance. Past survival skills are no longer supportive and new methods can take their place. Self care is important. If a Client is facing a greater life challenge such as recovery from sexual abuse or drug addiction they could make a commitment to working with a therapist or practitioner for at least two months. This will help to effect the changes necessary to ground and anchor the newly established energies.
Some clients require a second soul retrieval. The need for the return of four or five soul parts would be knowledge revealed at the beginning of a soul retrieval session or in discussions with the client. If there are more soul fragments, another session may be scheduled a few months later to allow for a period of integration. Too much, too soon is not a good thing and overwhelming feelings can cause a soul part to run for the hills.
A drumming journey to non-ordinary reality reveals one to three missing soul parts per session. Usually only one or maybe two sessions are required to bring back the significant soul parts that a client needs to move into wholeness. Results are varied and depend on the individual. It's like an energizer bunny, how long can you hold the charge? Some feel instantaneous change but for others the change is slow and subtle. Destructive family patterns that have repeated over generations may finally come to an end. When we are totally present in our bodies, we can no longer tolerate behaviors that were self-destructive. Addictions can be replaced with satisfaction and balance. Past survival skills are no longer supportive and new methods can take their place. Self care is important. If a Client is facing a greater life challenge such as recovery from sexual abuse or drug addiction they could make a commitment to working with a therapist or practitioner for at least two months. This will help to effect the changes necessary to ground and anchor the newly established energies.
Some clients require a second soul retrieval. The need for the return of four or five soul parts would be knowledge revealed at the beginning of a soul retrieval session or in discussions with the client. If there are more soul fragments, another session may be scheduled a few months later to allow for a period of integration. Too much, too soon is not a good thing and overwhelming feelings can cause a soul part to run for the hills.
As the Client, how do I prepare for my soul retrieval?
If you yearn for a fuller sense of vitality and connection to life, a soul retrieval can put you back on the path to healing your connections to yourself, your loved ones and to Nature. Once you make the decision and say yes to the Helping Spirits, you are already engaged in the energy of the healing so it is important to pay attention. Three days prior to your soul retrieval appointment, before going to sleep you can state out loud the following intention ---
"Tonight I ask for a dream to help me receive and support my soul's return."
Abstaining from alcohol or other addictive substances 24 hours before and after the soul retrieval is a good idea unless the Spirits offer information that an emergency procedure is necessary.All you need to do is show up with a willingness to do the work that will be asked of you. Your role during the session is to relax and observe what is happening while you await the return of your soul parts.
A trusted friend or family member can be a sacred witness and a valuable part of the process, so let the Shaman know if you want them to support you with their presence.
"Tonight I ask for a dream to help me receive and support my soul's return."
Abstaining from alcohol or other addictive substances 24 hours before and after the soul retrieval is a good idea unless the Spirits offer information that an emergency procedure is necessary.All you need to do is show up with a willingness to do the work that will be asked of you. Your role during the session is to relax and observe what is happening while you await the return of your soul parts.
A trusted friend or family member can be a sacred witness and a valuable part of the process, so let the Shaman know if you want them to support you with their presence.
How do I find the right person to work with me?
When interviewing a Shaman or Shamanic Practitioner, Ask questions, trust your instincts:
How long have they been a practitioner? Were they called by their Ancestors or did they just take courses? Who did they train with? How long have they been working with issues of soul loss and extraction? Listen to their history and their client's feedback. If someone tells you outright "I am a Shaman"... this is a red flag... the truth is always revealed in some way, shape or form.
A real Shaman will have a presence. A Shamanic Practitioner will also know where they stand. |
Read more here at Sandra Ingerman's website for shamanic teachers: http://www.shamanicteachers.com
Be wary if someone tries to "sell" you a healing because a soul retrieval sounds good to them. You might find someone who only claims to know how to do the work. Look for a shamanic practitioner who knows how walk between the worlds yet remain grounded. A practitioner will not only be trained in soul retrieval but also some other aspects of shamanism such as past life healing, extraction, curse unraveling and pattern reweaving, compassionate spirit release, depossession, clearing, balancing and stabilizing among other things. A real Shaman or Medicine Person will have a reputation for being able to perform certain healing ceremonies. Something will give you a strong intuitive hit to help you find the right person to work with. Remember to be practical and proactive, don't be afraid to question the shamanic practitioner or Shaman you've chosen.
Be wary if someone tries to "sell" you a healing because a soul retrieval sounds good to them. You might find someone who only claims to know how to do the work. Look for a shamanic practitioner who knows how walk between the worlds yet remain grounded. A practitioner will not only be trained in soul retrieval but also some other aspects of shamanism such as past life healing, extraction, curse unraveling and pattern reweaving, compassionate spirit release, depossession, clearing, balancing and stabilizing among other things. A real Shaman or Medicine Person will have a reputation for being able to perform certain healing ceremonies. Something will give you a strong intuitive hit to help you find the right person to work with. Remember to be practical and proactive, don't be afraid to question the shamanic practitioner or Shaman you've chosen.
After my Soul Retrieval ... How do I continue to reintegrate my soul parts?
The effects of the soul retrieval can be profound or subtle and will unfold over time. The re-integration process can continue over the coming days, weeks or even years. People are basically whole and inherently have all the qualities they need yet something has been blocking the expression of those qualities. A Soul retrieval is one of the most powerful healings a person can experience. Upon the return of lost soul parts most clients feel a sense of well being and wholeness, childlike joy, exuberance and vitality. These qualities are most often held by the Core Self or what some refer to as the happy child. Many clients experience a dramatic shift in consciousness, a sense of personal power balanced at a new level of spirit to heart connection. After soul retrieval, abilities and talents previously inhibited or blocked begin to fully express themselves. Some Power Animals bring awareness of much needed predatory skills to counterbalance low self-esteem. Other Power Animals bring gentleness to soften the understanding of harsh reality. There is always an adjustment period. What was uncomfortably familiar is now different. Taking flower essences afterwards, stabilizes and minimizes the adjustment period. Some clients may feel disoriented, kind of in a daze or euphoric after their session. Allowing extra time to sit quietly to ground before driving home or bringing a designated driver are good ideas. A client's Guides will continue to work with them after the Soul Retrieval because the most critical soul fragments have returned and their resonance has changed. This has occasionally been known to create a "domino effect" and can attract any outstanding soul fragments wanting to come back.
A client might also seek the help of another practitioner when they feel ready or engage in complimentary medicines such as acupuncture, reiki or bodywork. Equine Facilitative Therapy is fantastic for helping people work on bringing spiritual qualities and feelings into greater awareness.
Ask..."what do I need to do to keep you from leaving again?" or "What makes you want to stay with me?" What the soul part might suggest is valid and generally something very positive. It could be a simple request such as "I want to wear a flowered dress once in a while", "feed me a special comfort food occasionally"
like ice-cream or "show me that you will protect me and stand up for me"- something that shows the soul part they will be taken care of and that their needs will be met. Are you willing to do that? Voice Dialogue is a helpful technique to learn for supporting yourself. Let them know how glad you are to have them back. Reach out your arms, give them a hug and take them into your body. Tell them "Welcome Home" !
A client might also seek the help of another practitioner when they feel ready or engage in complimentary medicines such as acupuncture, reiki or bodywork. Equine Facilitative Therapy is fantastic for helping people work on bringing spiritual qualities and feelings into greater awareness.
Ask..."what do I need to do to keep you from leaving again?" or "What makes you want to stay with me?" What the soul part might suggest is valid and generally something very positive. It could be a simple request such as "I want to wear a flowered dress once in a while", "feed me a special comfort food occasionally"
like ice-cream or "show me that you will protect me and stand up for me"- something that shows the soul part they will be taken care of and that their needs will be met. Are you willing to do that? Voice Dialogue is a helpful technique to learn for supporting yourself. Let them know how glad you are to have them back. Reach out your arms, give them a hug and take them into your body. Tell them "Welcome Home" !
What is my responsibility after my soul retrieval session?
On the day of the soul retrieval give yourself plenty of time after the session to be with yourself and the reunited energies. It is wise to plan an easy day, maybe go to the beach, to the park or just rest. Take a day off from work, stay off the computer - this is your day of coming home to your self. You are responsible for making the changes in your life that support this healing. Review the notes from the session on a regular basis so that the energies may stay grounded. A ritual may be given to you that honors the gifts returned, perform it. Apathy and boredom set in when you allow your illness, trauma and or drama to have more passion for life than you do. With your vitality restored, how do you plan on taking care of this new power? This vitality needs a creative outlet. What can you do to use the new energy in an inspiring way? How do you choose to create a positive present and future for yourself?
Post positive affirmations where you can see them. Take your soul part on a Date. Buy yourself a special reminder of the healing that has taken place.
Find a stuffed animal or amazing photo of your Power Animal as a visual reminder. Do something fun!
Find a stuffed animal or amazing photo of your Power Animal as a visual reminder. Do something fun!
What about therapy?
For all clients there is a reintegration period that needs to take place with the information given. A soul retrieval can come at the beginning, middle or end of the therapeutic process. If a client is already working with a therapist the information can be integrated into their work together. The Therapist should be welcome in the session if the client desires their participation. The therapist can hold an intention of sacred healing for the client during a soul retrieval. This often speeds up the therapeutic process. The Shaman or Practitioner experiences or sees what is spiritually out of balance in the client while journeying in the spirit realms during the session.
When greater life challenges are to be faced such as issues and memories resurfacing from rape, incest, prolonged drug use and or combat, working with a therapist or counselor for at least two months afterwards, will help to ground and anchor the new awareness of self. This becomes a collaborative effort. Working with a good psychotherapist and or body worker can aid in the facilitation of your personal growth and healing. Sometimes the journey to meet the Shaman is just as important as the actual soul retrieval itself and has much information to impart. Many other tools can be suggested for the client's use after the soul retrieval. Once the client makes their intention known, the energies of the Universe come forward in supportive ways.
When greater life challenges are to be faced such as issues and memories resurfacing from rape, incest, prolonged drug use and or combat, working with a therapist or counselor for at least two months afterwards, will help to ground and anchor the new awareness of self. This becomes a collaborative effort. Working with a good psychotherapist and or body worker can aid in the facilitation of your personal growth and healing. Sometimes the journey to meet the Shaman is just as important as the actual soul retrieval itself and has much information to impart. Many other tools can be suggested for the client's use after the soul retrieval. Once the client makes their intention known, the energies of the Universe come forward in supportive ways.
Will a Soul Retrieval help my therapy?
Yes. Soul retrieval is beneficial to both the therapist and their clients. By having the fragmented parts of the soul brought together, the client has a stronger foundation to build upon in therapy. Many times the therapist could be talking to someone who isn't really present because of soul loss caused by the trauma, abuse and or PTSD issues. Many hours can be spent trying to ferret out a cause or memory that is locked away as though the key is missing and can't be found. A soul retrieval is the key that opens the lock.
Shamanic healing is a spiritual cure for dis-ease and will naturally compliment the practice of psychology and other Western healing modalities. It is not derived from one specific cultural or ethnic tradition but is based on core principles and adapts well for use in contemporary society. This method of spiritual healing is a problem solving system for discovering one’s own spiritual power and the wisdom to successfully deal with daily life.
When needed, the Shaman may act as an adjunct practitioner alongside the client's regular ongoing medical or therapeutic program during sessions. In such cases the Therapist or Doctor is regarded as the primary Healer. The Shaman should never interfere but seeks only to enhance the healing process. It is the client's responsibility to inform the Doctor or Therapist of their work with a Shaman or Shamanic Practitioner.
After the soul retrieval the client can share a written account or taped recording of the session with the Therapist who can then witness and support the necessary reintegration. As a Therapist, you may wish to attend the client's soul retrieval session or schedule an appointment to discuss adding this method to your own practice.
Note on medications: The client's medication needs can change drastically after a soul retrieval.
Shamanic healing is a spiritual cure for dis-ease and will naturally compliment the practice of psychology and other Western healing modalities. It is not derived from one specific cultural or ethnic tradition but is based on core principles and adapts well for use in contemporary society. This method of spiritual healing is a problem solving system for discovering one’s own spiritual power and the wisdom to successfully deal with daily life.
When needed, the Shaman may act as an adjunct practitioner alongside the client's regular ongoing medical or therapeutic program during sessions. In such cases the Therapist or Doctor is regarded as the primary Healer. The Shaman should never interfere but seeks only to enhance the healing process. It is the client's responsibility to inform the Doctor or Therapist of their work with a Shaman or Shamanic Practitioner.
After the soul retrieval the client can share a written account or taped recording of the session with the Therapist who can then witness and support the necessary reintegration. As a Therapist, you may wish to attend the client's soul retrieval session or schedule an appointment to discuss adding this method to your own practice.
Note on medications: The client's medication needs can change drastically after a soul retrieval.
"As a survivor of sexual abuse, I had no memories. After my own soul retrieval whatever memories that needed to come back did so. Later, I was able to leave them be on the condition that if something was important for me to know then I would look at it. But for the most part, I was finished with the painful ones and could put the past to rest."
When I agree to do a soul retrieval for a Client
I first consult with my Spirit Helpers for permission, is this work that I can do? At the session I'll discuss what's actually going to happen with the client. The client must be ready to change because changes will happen. I listen to the problem my client presents and then I journey with my Guides, Power Animals and Healing Spirits for the diagnosis and procedure. When we all work together, seemingly miraculous changes occur. This is very rewarding work to do and I love it.
I prefer to do long distance work from my own home. I'll create the sacred space, do the work, deconstruct the healing space, debrief and celebrate with you afterwards. If you decide you want to work with me, I need to talk with you by phone or via Skype to discuss the results of the healing session.
Email me "Sonara" to make the appointment.
[email protected]
I prefer to do long distance work from my own home. I'll create the sacred space, do the work, deconstruct the healing space, debrief and celebrate with you afterwards. If you decide you want to work with me, I need to talk with you by phone or via Skype to discuss the results of the healing session.
Email me "Sonara" to make the appointment.
[email protected]
What typically happens in a session, how is it done?
My method of returning soul parts is usually very easy and gentle. The key for me in doing soul retrievals is in working according to Spirits' direction. My Spirit Helpers range from my Power Animals, Nature Spirits and Sidhe, Celtic and Native American Ancestors, Spirit Guides and Angels to the Masters of the White Brotherhoood. My Spirit Helpers are in charge. They know what is to be done and what is best for the client. I move my ego, my personal identity out of the way. My intention to be of service is as compassionate, non-judgmental and truthful as I can be within a specified amount of time for a session. Shamanic work always happens easily for me when my intention is clear and the work is done to help another person. I am very careful. I have strong boundaries and the safety of my client is a priority.
All my sessions start with physically and spiritually cleansing my space as well as smudging. I am pretty quiet when it comes to praying and creating sacred space. Accompanied by burning sage or tobacco and maybe an Eagle feather, my Spirit Helpers work through me to remove blockages, stagnant, ungrounded or negative energies from the Client. I journey with my drum to ask for guidance and healing on the Client's behalf. I talk with my Client on and off throughout the session if they are there in person. I may do some singing and or rattling for some extraction work outside the body or inside the tunnel. We might run into having to remove what I call a "roommate or a rider", another energetic entity that has taken up residence in the Client's body. This situation is not the norm but does happen and a depossession or clearing takes place before the soul parts can come back to a "clean house". I can communicate with the entity if possible, find out what it's intention is if that is important and my Helper's remove it. My Spirit Helpers escort or send it off for clearing and then on to it's appropriate destination and next level of evolution.
While drumming, I ask to be taken to where where the client has lost power and or soul parts to retrieve them. Sometimes my Helpers will bring the soul parts to me. This work requires absolute trust on my part that my spiritual assistance will show me the way to go. I ask the returning soul parts and or power animals if they have any messages to share with my client. I am able to stop drumming and talk to my client and their soul part in a three way conversation and then pick up drumming again right where I left off. Clients can sometimes feel the shift or opening and release long held, buried emotions. The returning soul parts, power animals and or energetic gifts are blown into the client's heart center and the top of their head. Rattling is done to seal the deal.
Once the soul parts are returned, the person may immediately feel a new physical presence or sensations in the body, a sense of fullness or see their surroundings as brighter than before. Lost memories and emotions may return fast or slow. It is important that my client understand how to reintegrate the lost soul parts into the whole of their being. Typically, a power animal or teacher returns together with the core self as well as the power or energy that has been restored to help support continued growth. The ways that I see or experience the power animal are representative of the powers or gifts they share with the client. It is up to the client to trust their own process. I encourage clients to work in tandem with a counselor or body worker to move through any overwhelming or painful memories. It is critical that the person makes behavioral changes that support the return of their soul parts. I suggest having a support system in place such as caring family members and friends or a therapist. Sometimes a form of individual "homework" is given to the client to be completed later.
I recommend that my clients have some free time the next day with no obligations so they may rest and process their experience. Once in a while the whole thing can not be completed at once. Sometimes it may take another session. The client and reunited parts might need to work something out between themselves during a period of integration. That is quite alright, work is done as far as possible in the session as the process will continue to unfold for the client. I can easily perform a Soul Retrieval by phone or long distance healing. The only difference is that in person, the client is able to respond and ask questions in the moment while I am sitting beside him or her. The outcome is the same.
All my sessions start with physically and spiritually cleansing my space as well as smudging. I am pretty quiet when it comes to praying and creating sacred space. Accompanied by burning sage or tobacco and maybe an Eagle feather, my Spirit Helpers work through me to remove blockages, stagnant, ungrounded or negative energies from the Client. I journey with my drum to ask for guidance and healing on the Client's behalf. I talk with my Client on and off throughout the session if they are there in person. I may do some singing and or rattling for some extraction work outside the body or inside the tunnel. We might run into having to remove what I call a "roommate or a rider", another energetic entity that has taken up residence in the Client's body. This situation is not the norm but does happen and a depossession or clearing takes place before the soul parts can come back to a "clean house". I can communicate with the entity if possible, find out what it's intention is if that is important and my Helper's remove it. My Spirit Helpers escort or send it off for clearing and then on to it's appropriate destination and next level of evolution.
While drumming, I ask to be taken to where where the client has lost power and or soul parts to retrieve them. Sometimes my Helpers will bring the soul parts to me. This work requires absolute trust on my part that my spiritual assistance will show me the way to go. I ask the returning soul parts and or power animals if they have any messages to share with my client. I am able to stop drumming and talk to my client and their soul part in a three way conversation and then pick up drumming again right where I left off. Clients can sometimes feel the shift or opening and release long held, buried emotions. The returning soul parts, power animals and or energetic gifts are blown into the client's heart center and the top of their head. Rattling is done to seal the deal.
Once the soul parts are returned, the person may immediately feel a new physical presence or sensations in the body, a sense of fullness or see their surroundings as brighter than before. Lost memories and emotions may return fast or slow. It is important that my client understand how to reintegrate the lost soul parts into the whole of their being. Typically, a power animal or teacher returns together with the core self as well as the power or energy that has been restored to help support continued growth. The ways that I see or experience the power animal are representative of the powers or gifts they share with the client. It is up to the client to trust their own process. I encourage clients to work in tandem with a counselor or body worker to move through any overwhelming or painful memories. It is critical that the person makes behavioral changes that support the return of their soul parts. I suggest having a support system in place such as caring family members and friends or a therapist. Sometimes a form of individual "homework" is given to the client to be completed later.
I recommend that my clients have some free time the next day with no obligations so they may rest and process their experience. Once in a while the whole thing can not be completed at once. Sometimes it may take another session. The client and reunited parts might need to work something out between themselves during a period of integration. That is quite alright, work is done as far as possible in the session as the process will continue to unfold for the client. I can easily perform a Soul Retrieval by phone or long distance healing. The only difference is that in person, the client is able to respond and ask questions in the moment while I am sitting beside him or her. The outcome is the same.
It usually takes a full workday, about 8 hours to complete a Soul Retrieval session.
I limit the number of soul parts that I will bring back to a maximum of three per session but this often includes one or more power animals and maybe a gift of a specific energy, a past life healing and or curse unravelling. A second session could be scheduled about three months later if needed. The exchange that I ask in return for a session in person is $320 cash in an envelope or payment via PayPal. If you are thinking of having a soul retrieval, I recommend bringing someone who will take the time to honor the process and agree to be a sacred witness. I offer the added optional support of three consecutive monthly shamanic counseling sessions as needed. Each additional ninety minute session is $75. Contact -
Sonara's Email at [email protected] |