How long is the actual workshop, and what's the balance between instruction and hands-on journeying?

While specific timing depends on the final schedule, introductory shamanism workshops at this length typically run 2–3 hours, with the first 30–45 minutes spent on background, safety, and technique, and the remaining time devoted to one or two guided journeys plus integration discussion. This FAQ doesn't include the exact start/end times, so check your confirmation email for that detail.

Will I need to lie down or sit in a particular way during the journey, and is the space physically comfortable for people with mobility issues?

Journeying is typically done lying down on a yoga mat or blanket in a relaxed position, which allows deeper access to the state; Kripalu's studios are generally accessible, but you should reach out to them directly about specific accommodations (props, seating alternatives, accessible facilities) if you have mobility concerns so they can prepare in advance.

What should I do to prepare mentally before arriving, and is there anything I shouldn't do that day?

Coming with genuine curiosity and a light, open mind is most helpful; avoid heavy alcohol or recreational drugs the night before, and eat a light meal an hour or two before the workshop (a full stomach can make lying down uncomfortable). There's no need to 'study up' beforehand—the facilitator will teach you what you need to know.

shamanic

An Introduction to Shamanism: Learn to Journey

Name: An Introduction to Shamanism: Learn to Journey
Location: Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health

For millennia, cultures across the world have sustained themselves through relationship with the spirit realms, the essential practice at the heart of

Hosted on kripalu

Date

Nov 8 – Nov 13, 2026

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Location

Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health

Stockbridge, MA

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At a Glance

Duration

6 days

Start time

2:00 PM

Descripción

Imagine stepping beyond the veil of ordinary consciousness into realms where helping spirits await your arrival, where power animals carry wisdom unique to your soul's path, and where the boundaries between inner and outer worlds dissolve. This five-day residential program at Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health in Stockbridge, MA invites you to discover the transformative practice of shamanic journeying—a sacred skill that cultures worldwide have relied upon for millennia to heal, connect, and find meaning.

Led by experienced shamanic teachers Nancy MacPhee and Kathleen Duggan, An Introduction to Shamanism: Learn to Journey is designed for spiritual seekers ready to explore the foundational principles and ethics of core shamanism. Whether you're new to this ancient practice or looking to deepen an existing connection, this workshop creates a safe, supportive container where you'll develop practical skills to travel into non-ordinary realms, meet your own spiritual allies, and strengthen your relationship with the natural world both in journey work and in daily life.

Over five days, you'll move beyond theory into direct experience. Through guided practice, instruction, and community ceremony, you'll learn the techniques that shamans have used for thousands of years to access wisdom, healing, and spiritual guidance. This is not cultural appropriation—it's respectful engagement with core shamanism rooted in universal human capacity for spiritual connection.

What to Expect

Expect a blend of teaching, hands-on practice, and sacred ceremony designed to support both healing and personal expansion. Each day includes guided shamanic journey sessions where you'll learn to access non-ordinary consciousness, meet power animals and helping spirits unique to your practice, and receive their gifts. You'll also participate in group ceremonies that amplify the transformative potential of the work and create community among fellow seekers.

The program emphasizes creating and maintaining sacred space—essential to safe, ethical shamanic practice. Nancy MacPhee and Kathleen Duggan bring years of experience and deep respect for this lineage, ensuring the teaching honors both the ancient roots and contemporary applications of shamanism. You'll leave with practical skills you can integrate into your spiritual life immediately, plus a foundation for continued exploration and deepening.

Venue & Logistics

This five-day residential retreat takes place at Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, November 8–12, 2026. Kripalu is a welcoming retreat sanctuary nestled in the Berkshires, offering comfortable accommodations, nourishing vegetarian meals, and a contemplative atmosphere ideal for inner work. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for sitting and gentle movement. No prior shamanic experience is necessary—only an open heart and genuine curiosity.

Dónde Te Hospedarás

Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health

57 Interlaken Rd, Stockbridge, MA 01262

Stockbridge, MA, United States

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Preguntas Frecuentes

Journeying is a guided meditative practice where you enter a light trance state using rhythmic drumming to access inner visions and wisdom—it's distinct from visualization because the images and insights arise spontaneously rather than being directed. Yes, this workshop is designed for you to experience your first journey live, typically lasting 15–20 minutes, with the facilitator using drum patterns to guide you into and back out of the state.

This is explicitly an introductory workshop, so no background is assumed; you'll receive clear instruction on how to relax, set an intention, and allow imagery to emerge without forcing or judging it. Journeying is a natural human capacity (not a special skill), and 'failure' isn't really possible—even subtle images, sensations, or feelings count as valid experiences.

Kripalu's approach integrates shamanic practice within their yoga and holistic wellness framework, emphasizing ethical, grounded technique rather than cultural appropriation or theatrical elements. This particular format is structured as a single focused session (rather than a multi-day training) designed to give you a direct, accessible first experience rather than extensive theory.

You should contact Kripalu directly before registering, as the guided trance state involved in journeying can be contraindicated for some trauma responses; they have experience working with sensitive populations and can advise whether modifications are possible or whether a different offering suits you better. The facilitator will likely offer grounding options, but pre-event communication is important.

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Descripción

What to Expect

Venue & Logistics

Preguntas Frecuentes

An Introduction to Shamanism: Learn to Journey

Descripción

What to Expect

Venue & Logistics

Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health

Preguntas Frecuentes

There's more where this came from.

Discover More Artists

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An Introduction to Shamanism: Learn to Journey

Descripción

What to Expect

Venue & Logistics

Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health

Preguntas Frecuentes

There's more where this came from.

Discover More Artists

Find More Events

List Your Own Event