Modern Shamanism: The Importation of Sacred Indigenous Practices in Western Centric Societies

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the implications, consequences, and benefits of the importation of sacred indigenous practices into Western centric societies. This objective was achieved through utilizing Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to examine the Westernization of shamanism and the romanticization of Indigenous culture by Westerners. I gave specific attention to both supportive and harmful experiences participants had with Western shamans, and aspects of Western shamanism which are either valued or reproached. Interview questions, follow-up questions, and the interpretation of answers allowed for an in-depth and multifaceted exploration into the phenomena of practicing sacred Indigenous practices within a Western context and its implications. The data revealed every participant healed childhood trauma, adult wounding, or mental health struggles through attending ayahuasca ceremonies with Western shamans. Paradoxically, four of the five participants reported experiencing abuse, manipulation, exploitation, neglect, disrespect, or a traumatic event under the care or at the hands of the Western shaman. The data and the literature would suggest that importing sacred Indigenous practices into Western centric societies is not sustainable nor render viability.