The directions are much discussed in shamanism and form a fundamental idea that recurs throughout shamanic cultures. People speak of four and seven directions, and some also include nine.
In the Sami tradition we speak of the four winds, and in the Norse tradition of the four dwarves Austri, Sydri, Nordri and Vestri. These directions hold power, and together they form a circle that represents wholeness. When we call in the seven directions, we also call in Mother Earth, Father Sky and the center, or the heart, so that the whole is represented. We call in all the good forces and ask for protection from each direction. Each direction has its own power and its own symbolism. In the East we have the child, and the sun also begins in the east. That is why we light the fire in the east. In the South we have youth, in the West adulthood, and in the North old age and wisdom.
The directions will form the foundation for most of the shamanic work you do, whether it concerns yourself or whether you are helping others. Learning about the directions is a lifelong path. Everything is connected, everything is ensouled.
