What is a happy life? In our modern world, we are often taught to chase happiness as if it were a destination—a promotion, a new house, or the perfect relationship. We search for it outside of ourselves, only to find that these achievements bring fleeting satisfaction, not deep, lasting joy.
From a shamanic perspective, happiness is not something you chase; it is something you return to. It is our natural state of being when we are in alignment and wholeness. Shamanism teaches us that a happy life is an “inside job.” It is the result of nurturing our soul and living in harmony with the world around us.
But how do we find this path back to our soul’s joy? It begins with fundamental values that reconnect us to our true selves.
1. Connection to Nature is Connection to Self
In the shamanic worldview, everything is alive and interconnected. The trees, the animals, the rivers, and the stones all possess a spirit and a consciousness. We are not separate from nature; we are nature. When we feel disconnected, stressed, or lost, it is often because we have forgotten this fundamental truth.
When you walk barefoot on the earth, listen to the wind in the trees, or watch the moon rise, you are not just observing the “outside” world. You are communicating with parts of yourself.
This connection to nature is the first key to happiness. It quiets the noise of the everyday mind and allows you to hear your own inner voice. In shamanism, we work with spirit animals (also known as power animals) and the spirits of the natural world; they act as mirrors, showing us our own inner strength, wisdom, and intuition.
When you connect with nature, you connect with your deepest self. This harmony brings an immediate sense of peace and belonging. This is happiness.
2. Finding Your Purpose
A happy life is a life filled with meaning. So many of us feel unfulfilled, as if we are “functioning” in a life that doesn’t truly belong to us—a feeling I know well from my own past.
Shamanism teaches that every soul comes into this world with a unique purpose, a “calling” or “soul path.” This is your unique gift that you are here to share with the world.
Finding your purpose is not about finding the “perfect job.” It is about discovering what makes you feel truly alive and knowing why you are here. It is the feeling of doing something valuable—acting in alignment with your deepest values.
When your daily actions align with your soul path, you no longer need to search for happiness, because you are living it. You are “carrying your light to the outside.” This sense of purpose is a profound source of joy for life.
3. The Journey to Wholeness and Self-Love
You cannot be truly happy if you are at war with yourself. The shamanic path is ultimately a journey of healing and integration. From a shamanic perspective, difficult life events or trauma can cause parts of our soul to split off in a protective act known as “soul loss.” This can leave us feeling empty, disconnected, or unable to feel true joy.
The path to happiness, therefore, involves “soul retrieval”—a sacred practice of calling these lost parts of ourselves back home. By integrating these parts, we heal old wounds and release limiting beliefs. This journey back to wholeness is the foundation for deep self-love and self-acceptance. You realize you are already complete. As I always say, “The greatest love you will ever find is the love for yourself.”
From a shamanic point of view, a happy life is not an accident. It is a conscious choice to live in connection, alignment, and wholeness. It is the peace that comes from walking in nature and knowing you are home. It is the joy for life that bubbles up when you are living your soul’s truth. It is the deep, unwavering self-love that comes from being healed and whole. It is a beautiful journey back to who you were always meant to be.
Shamanism Training
Are you searching for your true path? Do you feel a call to connect deeper—with nature, with your soul, and with ancient, healing wisdom? My shamanic training is a transformative online and in-person journey designed to guide you back to your own inner power.
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