Secrets of Shamanism

208 SECRETS OF SHAMANISM

the rattle in front of you and let it lead you to a spot where it

does not want to leave. You can use one of die methods

described earlier on finding power spots as well. This, of

course, is all very subjective, but effective.

Invoke the six directions and create a power circle around

you using twigs, small stones, or pine cones. When you do

this, you transform the area into a natural doorway in which

the spirit world can manifest itself.

Make yourself a comfortable place to sit and, closing your

eyes, say hello to your surroundings: the local plants, trees,

insects, and any elements present. Ask for their help in offer-

ing you guidance and assistance on your quest. It is a good

idea to spend a lengthy period of time on this.

Feel freer to journey or use any of the methods in this

book during the vision quest. Sing, dance, sit quietly, listen,

look, and visit with nature.

Some people find the experience more meaningful if they

stay awake throughout the night(s), while others prefer to

sleep a few hours. Decide what is best for you.

WHAT to LOOK FOR

Spend your time getting to know the immediate area that

you are in. Small natural signs are gifts to you from the spirit

world and can be powerful messages related to your question

or issue: a feather, a visit from an animal or butterfly, a cloud

passing overhead, the cry of a coyote. These ordinary things

and events become significant in the nonordinary environ-

ment of the vision quest. Remember that the spirit world

often uses natural signs to communicate with you in response

to your requests. Don't expect the opening of the skies or

earth-shattering visitations and the like. The spirit world is

subtle, not overly dramatic. Learn to listen and hear with

refinement. You do not have to be hit over the head to learn

something.

OBSTACLES

Vision quests, while sometimes intense, are also filled
with boredom and mental and physical restlessness. You may
be distracted by memories, mental chatter, and worries
about the details of a thousand things you need to do when
you get home. You may get tired and wonder what you are
doing out here in the middle of the night when you could be
comfortable at home in bed. You might find that all you can