Shamanic Otherworlds

In shamanic traditions worldwide, the Otherworld is the realm of spirits, ancestors, guides and gods. Shamans enter altered states of consciousness to access these hidden realities and interact with the beings that inhabit them, often for purposes of divination, healing, and spiritual guidance.

Common Shamanic Otherworlds:
  • Upper World - celestial realm of spirits & light beings
  • Middle World - earthly realm of nature spirits & elementals
  • Lower World - chthonic underworld of power animals & ancestors
  • Dream Time - timeless creative source of Aboriginal lore
  • Nagual - alternate reality of Toltec & Mexica shamanism
  • Faerie - enchanted land of Celtic folklore

The Otherworlds are said to be accessed through portals at sacred sites, such as caves, mountains, lakes, and burial mounds. Specific plants, such as ayahuasca, psilocybin mushrooms, iboga, and salvia, are also used to facilitate passage between worlds.

"The other world is not so much a place as it is a different state of being. It is the realm of myth, magic and dream. It is a place of power, where the ancestors and spirits dwell. It is the source of all life and all creativity."
- Michael Harner, The Way of the Shaman

Upper World Journeys - Lower World Descents - Spirit Guides & Allies