56 SECRETS OF SHAMANISMThey often have someone present who can sit with them or
drum for them if they are undertaking a particularly long
journey. If they take a short journey, they make sure their
physical body is in a safe spot where intrusions are unlikely.
Even when they briefly check into the spirit world during a
meeting, they do so momentarily, making sure nothing is re-
quired of them at the time.
During travel into the spirit world, shamans make sure
that they carry protection with them at all times. They know
that they are not invulnerable. Their existence is interdepen-
dent with all creatures on all levels of reality, and they must
get along with these creatures and request their help often.
Shamans know that by becoming too arrogant they will ulti-
mately fail. Therefore, they humbly request the help or as-
sistance of guardian spirits to help them and protect them on
their journeys.
Therefore, we recommend that you always call up a
guardian spirit before embarking on a shamanic journey.
Your guide that meets you at the cave or entrance is a likely
candidate. Not only is your guide there to help you on your
way, but also capable as a guardian of protecting both your
physical and spirit bodies as well. You can ask that guardian
to take care of your body as you journey or you can ask it to
handle any situations that appear dangerous or frightening to
you on your journey. Guardian spirits are good at this; it's
their expertise and they enjoy it. When in doubt, let them do
the work.
Talismans and fetishes have been used by shamans for
centuries to protect them on their journeys. However, it is
not the physical object itself that protects or has the real
power. The energy behind the object is what's important. Its
physical form simply exists as a reminder that the power is
there and available. Therefore, successful shamans do not
confuse the object with the power. Some of their most pow-
erful talismans are invisible to the naked eye but offer them
enormous protection. A good shaman can perform powerful
feats stark naked because the physical form of his tools is not
necessary to get the job done.
It is a good idea to get into the habit of using some pro-
tective talismans in everyday life. However, these need not
be physical. Some of the best talismans are those that you
receive as gifts during your shamanic journeys. It does not
matter that when you open your eyes they appear not to be
there. Whenever you close your eyes, they are there and
they can help you.