Sjamanistisk Forbund offers funeral rituals that are deeply rooted in shamanic traditions, with a focus on nature and the spiritual. These ceremonies are designed to reflect the deceased's outlook on life and their wishes, and they are tailored to provide a meaningful farewell.
Elements of the funeral ritual
Closeness to nature: The ceremonies are often held in nature to strengthen the connection to Mother Earth. This may be in the forest, by a river, or at another place that held meaning for the deceased.
Drums and music: Drums are often used in the ceremony to create a meditative state. Music and song may also be included to honour the deceased's life and spirit.
Personal adaptation: The ritual is tailored to the deceased's wishes. This may include specific songs, poems, or other elements that were important to the deceased.
Spiritual journey: The ceremony may include rituals that symbolise the deceased's transition to another state of being. This may involve the use of shamanic drums or other shamanic techniques.
Community: The funeral is an occasion for the bereaved to gather, share memories, and support one another in their grief.
Preparation and the calling of spirits
The ceremony often begins with a calling of the spirits and the forces of nature. This may include lighting a fire, which symbolises the presence of the Fire Spirit, and calling in the four directions, which represent different aspects of life and nature.
The heart of the ceremony
Drums and music play a central role in creating a meditative state and a connection to the spirit world. The drums help participants synchronise with the rhythms of nature and underscore the eternal circle of life.
Personal elements such as songs, poems, or other rituals may be included to honour the deceased's life and spirit. These elements are tailored to the deceased's wishes and outlook on life.
Spiritual transition
Rituals that symbolise the deceased's transition to another state of being are an important part of the ceremony. This may include the use of shamanic drums or other shamanic techniques to guide the deceased on their spiritual journey.
Closing and community:
The ceremony concludes with thanks to the spirits and the forces of nature. The participants gather to share memories and support one another in their grief, which is an important part of the healing process.
Rituals at the end of life
At the end of life, Sjamanistisk Forbund also offers rituals that help the dying prepare for the transition. This may include spiritual care and transition rituals that bring peace and acceptance for both the dying person and their loved ones.
Spiritual care: The forbund provides spiritual care to those who wish for it, whether in hospital, in the military, or in prison. This can help the dying person and their loved ones find peace and acceptance.
Transition rituals: These rituals can help the dying person prepare for the transition to another state of being, and may include conversations, song, and the use of drums to ease the transition.
These ceremonies are deeply rooted in shamanism's belief that everything is ensouled, and that all creatures are part of a larger circular cycle of life. This perspective provides a meaningful framework for navigating life's transitions and endings.
Read more about the ceremony and practical advice here.
