What Actually Happens in a Shamanic Meditation Journey
When people hear the words shamanic meditation, they often picture something exotic, esoteric or difficult to access. They imagine it requires years of spiritual training, or that it is only for people with particular beliefs, or that it involves something intense and unfamiliar.
The truth is quite different. Shamanic meditation is one of the most natural, accessible and profoundly grounding practices I have ever encountered — and in my experience, most people who try it wonder why they waited so long.
In this post I want to demystify it completely. No jargon, no mystique. Just an honest account of what a shamanic meditation journey involves, what people typically experience, and how you can try it for yourself.
What is shamanic meditation?
Shamanic meditation is a guided inner journey that draws on ancient wisdom traditions from cultures around the world. At its heart, it is simply a way of moving your attention deliberately inward — away from the noise of the thinking mind and into a deeper layer of awareness — in order to receive insight, release what is heavy, or reconnect with your own inner wisdom.
It uses guided visualisation and intentional focus to help you enter a relaxed, receptive state. From there, your inner world becomes accessible in a way that is not always available in ordinary waking consciousness.
It is not hypnosis. It is not trance in the dramatic sense. It is closer to a very deep, purposeful relaxation — one in which you remain fully aware and in control at all times.
What happens in a session
The opening
Every journey begins with a period of settling. Tracey guides you into a comfortable, supported position — lying down or seated — and gently invites you to close your eyes and begin to slow the breath. This opening phase helps the nervous system release the busyness of the day and creates a sense of safety and presence.
The journey itself
Once you are settled, Tracey begins to guide the journey using her voice and intention. She may invite you into a natural landscape — a forest, a cave, a body of water — or take you through a specific inner process depending on what you are coming to work on.
The experience is different for everyone. Some people see vivid imagery — colours, landscapes, figures, symbols. Others experience it more as a felt sense — warmth, movement, emotion, a quality of stillness. Some receive clear insights or messages. Others simply rest deeply and feel profoundly restored. All of these are valid. There is no right way to journey.
What people often experience
• A sense of deep physical relaxation — often deeper than in ordinary sleep
• Emotional release — tears, relief, a sense of something lifting
• Clarity on something that has been confusing or stuck
• A feeling of reconnection — to yourself, to something greater, to a sense of meaning
• Insights or images that feel significant, even if they are not immediately understood
• Simply — rest. Deep, genuine, restorative rest.
The closing
Tracey gently guides you back from the journey, helping you to integrate what you have experienced and return fully to ordinary awareness. There is always time to share what came up if you wish — or simply to sit with it quietly.
"The answers you are looking for are already inside you. The journey simply gets you quiet enough to hear them."
— Tracey Bonanno, Sacred Earth Healings
Is shamanic meditation safe?
Yes. Shamanic meditation as facilitated by Tracey is a gentle, non-invasive practice. You are in control at all times. You can open your eyes, speak, or bring yourself back to the room whenever you choose.
It is not recommended for people currently experiencing acute psychosis or certain other mental health conditions where the boundary between inner and outer reality may be unclear. If you have concerns, please speak with your GP or mental health provider before attending.
The Women's Shamanic Meditation Circle
In addition to one-on-one sessions, Tracey facilitates a monthly Women's Shamanic Meditation Circle in Pampoolah. This is a small group gathering — held on the first Wednesday of each month at 1pm — for women who want to experience the journey in a supported group setting.
Numbers are intentionally small to ensure a safe, intimate space. The cost is $20 per session. No previous experience with meditation or spiritual practice is needed. Many women come for the first time not knowing what to expect — and leave wondering how they managed without it.
To join the circle, simply call or text Tracey on 0493 961 398 to express your interest and reserve your spot.
Key takeaways
• Shamanic meditation is a guided inner journey using visualisation and intentional focus
• You remain fully aware and in control throughout — it is not hypnosis or trance
• Experiences vary: imagery, felt sensations, emotional release, insight or deep rest are all common
• It is particularly powerful for processing grief, loss and disconnection from self
• The monthly Women's Circle in Pampoolah is open to all women — no experience required
Frequently asked questions
Do I need any spiritual beliefs to try shamanic meditation?
No. Shamanic meditation does not require you to hold any particular beliefs. It is a practical tool for accessing your own inner wisdom. What matters is simple openness — a willingness to get quiet and see what is there.
What if I don't see anything during the journey?
This is very common, especially for first-timers. Not everyone experiences vivid imagery — and that is completely fine. Many people receive their experience as a felt sense rather than as something visual. Others simply rest deeply, which is equally valuable. There is no wrong way to journey.
How is this different from regular guided meditation?
Regular guided meditation tends to focus on relaxation and mindfulness — observing thoughts and returning attention to the breath. Shamanic meditation has a more specific, intentional purpose — it actively uses the inner landscape as a space for healing, insight and release. It goes deeper, and the results tend to feel more personal and specific.
Can I do shamanic meditation online?
Yes. One-on-one shamanic meditation sessions are available online via phone or video — and many clients find this format just as powerful as in-person. Tracey will guide you through everything you need to do to prepare your space.
Experience a shamanic meditation journey with Tracey
Whether you are drawn to the one-on-one session or the monthly Women's Circle, Tracey would love to guide you on your first journey within.
Sessions are available in-person at Anandamaya Wellness Centre in Taree (Tuesdays, 9am–1pm), at Tracey's home practice in Pampoolah, or online across Australia. The Women's Circle meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 1pm in Pampoolah — $20 per session.
Call or text Tracey on 0493 961 398 to book your spot.