Why do a Shamanic Journey before Breathwork?

At my weekly Group Breathwork Journeys, I often begin by guiding participants through a shamanic journey before we move into the breathwork itself. This is a gentle yet powerful way to open the space, settle the nervous system, and invite a deeper connection to what’s about to unfold.

Why a shamanic journey first?

One of the main reasons I weave a shamanic journey into the beginning of each session is to help participants form a relationship with the drum.

The drum is a powerful ally during breathwork. Its steady rhythm supports the body and mind to soften, drop out of thinking, and move into deeper layers of awareness. When you connect with the drum beforehand, your system becomes more attuned to its frequency. This often allows you to surrender more easily and access deeper states once the breathwork begins.

Another reason is that what arises in the journey often flows directly into the breathwork.

So much of what we carry lives beneath the surface — held unconsciously in the body, breath, and nervous system. The shamanic journey can gently bring this material into awareness. From there, the breath becomes a powerful tool to meet it with presence, compassion, and release.

You don’t need any experience

No prior experience is necessary for these journeys.

While I may invite you to use your imagination, it’s not a requirement. Many people are surprised by how naturally images, emotions, sensations, or insights arise — often without trying at all. Others experience the journey more as a felt sense or an emotional knowing rather than vivid imagery.

There is no right or wrong way to journey. Whatever shows up is exactly what your system is ready for in that moment.

Examples of journeys I may guide

Each journey is different, but some themes I commonly work with include:

🌿 Meeting your feminine lineage or ancestral history
🌿 Connecting with a version of yourself who once felt unseen or unheard
🌿 Meeting a part of yourself that is ready to heal, and then bringing that part into the breathwork
🌿 Connecting with your higher self for guidance and clarity
🌿 Meeting your power animal or inner ally

These journeys can be deeply emotional, grounding, illuminating, or subtle — sometimes all at once.

A bridge back to yourself

What I love most about facilitating shamanic journeys alongside breathwork is witnessing the unique stories and insights that unfold. No two journeys are ever the same, yet each one offers an opportunity to reconnect with your body, your breath, and your inner wisdom.

Together, the journey and the breath create a bridge — from the mind into the body, from the unconscious into awareness, and from disconnection back to the heart.

✨ Interested to know more?
You’ll find the link to my weekly Group Breathwork Journeys below. I would love to support you on a journey back to your heart, your truth, and your inner knowing.

Blessings,

Shanie