One of the greatest gifts I have received from living and walking this path of Animism is a deep knowing that I am indeed connected to everything around and within me in every moment and every breath. My existence plays a unique role in the never-ending song of life, and my unique energy in this time and place has a purpose.

It’s important to remember that if you are considering a psychedelic experience or plant medicine ceremony, you are going to get vulnerable, you won’t be in control, and that could lead to either profound healing or a potential nightmare. If approached well however, plant medicine ceremonies and psychedelic experiences can be life-changing – even if they are really difficult! And if you want those experiences to actually bring change into your life, then you are going to have to digest and integrate them effectively and that will require you having adequate support to do so.

A key practice on the spiritual path of Animism is Spirit Journeying. By grounding into a clear and steady intention, we can learn to navigate the unseen realms and receive guidance and wisdom. Journeying can be a powerful practice for spiritual healing, emotional support, ancestral healing, psychedelic integration, microdosing, and dream interpretation.

With shifting seasonal energies it’s important to consider the energy of your home and ensure you clear out stagnant energy to make space for the new. Here’s a simple Threshold Cleansing Ritual that when done regularly, say every 6-8 weeks, is a really efficient and powerful reset for your home’s energy, while bringing in protection, and placing intentions so your home remains fresh, refined, and sweet.

Here’s some ways you may encounter the darkness along with some spiritual salves and rituals to help you through:

You may notice layers or waves of grief and longing bubbling up. Gift yourself some time and space to allow the waves to move through. If it feels like the emotion is stuck, try journalling, listening to music, or watching a sentimental movie to get the tears flowing.

Although Westcoast Shamanic Services was a tried and true 22 years old, I knew it was time for a change.

I thought it might be helpful to share a bit of background behind the words shaman and shamanism, and why after 25 years, I’ve moved away from them.

When I first started my healing journey, I was alone. What I was healing from was so big, it took all my attention and I struggled with surface talk. It seemed impossible to feel connected in a way that was real. Then community landed in my life!

I wanted to say thank you to the HAWTHORN tree so I created this Earth Offering. She asked for salt and some honey, and so I knew I would be protected moving into the Fall and Winter, with also some sweetness in my world.

One of the first things I learned on the Shamanic path was the importance of intention. Whether it be heading into a Shamanic journey or ceremony, the Intention is the seed or beacon we plant so the Universe can respond. Here is an intention setting ceremony that can be used at any time of the year.

Deep Ancestral blessings to all your relations during this sacred Samhain season. At this time, I celebrate An Cailleach who is the Grandmother of the world and has appeared for thousands of years in many different cultures and many different forms.

As promised here’s some thoughts on microdosing if you have PTSD. Part 4 of a 4 part article.

It’s very easy to find all of the amazing reasons to microdose. Like anything though it may be for you, or it may not be for you yet. Here’s an overview of some of my experience both personally and in working with others in somatic and shamanic spaces. Part 3 of a 4 part article.

Here is an offering in response to questions on protocol regarding microdosing. Part 2 of 4 part article.

There are lots of protocols out there about how to microdose but here’s a few tips that may help. Part 1 of a 4 part article on conscious microdosing.