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Nature Spirits in Shamanism: Guardians and Guides of the Natural World

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Engagement with the Element of Nature at BEZA’s Zen Academy in Cape Town, Western Cape, highlighting mindfulness and spiritual growth through outdoor meditation practices and natural connection.

Nature - Way of Medicine

– Composed by Letitia Webber, and edited by Ekan Nangaku Leisching

Part 1 of a 4-Part Journey

This is an invitation to awaken the medicine within you, to listen deeply to the voice of Nature, and to discover what it means to live in harmony with your truest authentic self.

Across the vast tapestry of shamanic traditions worldwide, the natural world pulses with life, spirit, and intelligence. These nature spirits—often called elementals, fairies, or guardian beings—are recognized as conscious entities that inhabit forests, rivers, mountains, animals, and plants. Far from mere myth, these spirits are active participants in the spiritual journeys of shamans and seekers alike. They serve as guides, protectors, and teachers, inviting us to reconnect with the Earth’s living medicine wheel and discover our own authentic path.

In this blog, we explore the rich diversity of nature spirits across shamanic cultures, their roles, and how you can begin to build your own relationship with these sacred beings.

What Are Nature Spirits?

Nature spirits are the living essence of the natural world, embodying the energies of earth, air, fire, water, and all living creatures. Central to the shamanic worldview is animism—the belief that all things are alive and imbued with spirit. Shamans journey between worlds to communicate with these spirits, seeking healing, wisdom, and balance.

These beings may appear as animals, plants, elemental forces, or ancestral presences, each with its own personality and purpose. They are often described as:

  • Guardians of specific places or ecosystems

  • Messengers of the spirit world

  • Allies in healing and transformation

  • Keepers of ancient wisdom and natural law

Siberian Shamanism: Animal and Tree Spirits

Siberian shamanism is often considered the foundational root of many contemporary shamanic practices. In this tradition, nature spirits are deeply intertwined with the landscape—especially the vast forests and tundra that define Siberia. Shamans here view animals and trees not as separate from humans but as kin, each possessing their own consciousness and wisdom. The world tree—a cosmic axis connecting the underworld, earth, and heavens—is a central symbol, with tree spirits acting as guardians of this axis and mediators between realms.

The shaman’s trance journey often involves ascending or descending the world tree to meet these spirits, who provide healing knowledge, protection, and guidance. Animal spirits such as the bear, wolf, and eagle are especially revered, each symbolizing different strengths and lessons. For example, the bear represents courage and introspection, while the eagle embodies vision and spiritual clarity.

The shamanic relationship with these spirits is reciprocal and respectful. Offerings, songs, and rituals honor the spirits, inviting their cooperation in healing ceremonies and community rites. This connection supports not only individual healing but also the wellbeing of the entire ecosystem, reflecting a holistic worldview where all beings are interconnected.

Learn more about Siberian Shamanism.

Siberian Shamanism: Animal and Tree Spirits

Native American Traditions: Animal Totems and Spirit Guides

Across the diverse Native American cultures, the concept of animal totems and spirit guides plays a vital role in spiritual life. Totems are not merely symbolic but are living spiritual allies that provide guidance, protection, and teachings. These animal spirits are often discovered through personal quests such as vision quests, dreams, or ceremonies, revealing a unique spiritual relationship tailored to the individual or tribe.

Ceremonies and rituals serve to honor these spirits and maintain harmony with the land and ancestors. The animal totems embody qualities that individuals are encouraged to develop—such as the wisdom of the owl, the strength of the buffalo, or the adaptability of the coyote. These spirits also act as messengers between the human and spirit worlds, facilitating communication and spiritual growth.

In many tribes, the natural world itself is considered sacred, and every element—from rivers to mountains—is alive with spirit. This animistic perspective fosters a deep respect for nature and a sense of responsibility to protect it. The teachings of the animal spirits are often passed down through oral traditions, songs, and dances, ensuring the continuity of this sacred knowledge.

Explore Native American spirit animals and totems

Native American Traditions: Animal Totems and Spirit Guides

Amazonian Shamanism: Forest Spirits and Plant Guardians

Amazonian shamanism is renowned for its intimate relationship with the rainforest and its myriad spirits. The forest spirits here are understood as conscious beings that inhabit every tree, river, and creature. Central to Amazonian practice is the relationship with plant guardians, especially those connected to sacred plants like ayahuasca, tobacco, and chacruna. These plants are considered teachers and healers, offering visionary experiences and profound spiritual insights.

Shamans, or curanderos, cultivate deep, reciprocal relationships with these plant spirits through ritual preparation, offerings, and ceremonial use. The ayahuasca ceremony, for example, is a sacred journey guided by the plant spirits, allowing participants to confront inner wounds, receive guidance, and experience transformation. These spirits are not passive; they actively communicate through visions, songs (icaros), and symbolic imagery.

Beyond individual healing, Amazonian shamans see themselves as guardians of the forest, working to maintain the balance between humans and nature. They honor the spirits with offerings and rituals that acknowledge the forest’s sovereignty and power. The relationship with nature spirits here is one of mutual respect, humility, and deep spiritual connection.

More on Amazonian plant spirits and shamanism

Amazonian Shamanism- Forest Spirits and Plant Guardians

Mongolian Shamanism: Ancestral and Natural Spirits (Boo/Böö)

Mongolian shamanism features a rich pantheon of spirits known as boo or böö, encompassing ancestral spirits, animal guardians, and natural forces. These spirits are integral to Mongolian cosmology and daily life, where shamans act as intermediaries between humans and the spirit world. The spirits are believed to inhabit mountains, rivers, animals, and even household objects, each requiring respect and offerings.

Shamans conduct rituals involving drumming, chanting, and offerings to communicate with these spirits, seeking their blessings for health, protection, and success. The ancestral spirits hold a particularly revered place, as they maintain the lineage’s wellbeing and connection to the land. The natural spirits embody the power of the Mongolian steppe, reflecting the harsh but sacred environment.

The shaman’s role includes maintaining balance between humans and spirits, mediating conflicts, and ensuring that the spirits’ needs are met. This relationship is based on reciprocity, respect, and ongoing communication, emphasizing harmony with nature and the ancestors.

Read about Mongolian nature spirits

African Shamanism: Ancestral and Nature Spirits

In many African spiritual traditions, including those practiced by sangomas and other traditional healers, the spirit world is populated by both ancestral spirits and nature beings. These spirits are central to healing, divination (Read: The Ancient Art of Divination), and community wellbeing. Ancestral spirits are revered as wise guides who continue to influence the living, while nature spirits inhabit rivers, forests, mountains, and animals.

Rituals often involve drumming, dancing, and trance possession, allowing the healer to become a vessel for the spirits’ wisdom and power. These ceremonies not only restore health but also strengthen the social fabric by reaffirming connections to lineage and land. The spirits are called upon to protect the community from harm, provide guidance, and ensure fertility and prosperity.

Nature spirits in African traditions are diverse and can be specific to particular places or natural features. For example, river spirits might be honored with offerings to ensure safe passage or abundant fish. The relationship with these spirits is deeply embedded in everyday life, reflecting a worldview where the spiritual and physical realms are inseparable.

Read about African ancestral and nature spirits

African Shamanism

The Role of Nature Spirits in Shamanic Practice

Nature spirits are essential to the core functions of shamanism:

  • Healing: They assist in removing spiritual blockages and restoring balance to body, mind, and soul.

  • Guidance: They provide wisdom for life decisions, community wellbeing, and spiritual growth.

  • Protection: Rituals honor these spirits to safeguard individuals and communities from harm.

  • Transformation: Through practices like shapeshifting and spirit journeying, shamans embody these spirits’ powers, facilitating personal and collective transformation.

How to Connect with Nature Spirits Today

Building a relationship with nature spirits is a deeply personal and evolving journey. Here are expanded ways to begin:

1. Mindful Presence in Nature

Spend intentional time in natural settings—forests, riversides, gardens—observing without distraction. Notice the subtle movements, sounds, and energies around you. This openness invites nature spirits to reveal themselves in their own time and way. Try to engage all your senses, feeling the texture of leaves, hearing bird songs, smelling earth and flowers. This deep presence fosters connection.

2. Offerings and Reciprocity

Offerings are a traditional way of honoring nature spirits and inviting their presence. These can be simple—water, herbs, tobacco, flowers—or more elaborate depending on your tradition. The key is sincerity and respect, recognizing that this is a two-way relationship. Before leaving a natural space, you might leave a small gift or say a prayer of gratitude, acknowledging the spirit’s presence.

3. Shamanic Journeying and Meditation

Guided meditations or shamanic journeying practices help you enter altered states of consciousness where you can meet and communicate with nature spirits directly. To support this connection, Born as the Earth Zen Academy offers Zen Elemental Meditation—a unique practice that helps you attune to the energies of Fire, Water, Earth, Nature, and Stone. These meditation practices are designed to deepen your relationship with each element.

4. Listening and Symbol Recognition

Pay attention to recurring symbols in dreams, daily life, or encounters with animals and plants. These may be messages or invitations from nature spirits guiding your path. Keeping a journal of these experiences can help you discern patterns and deepen your understanding.

5. Creating Sacred Spaces

Designate a small altar or garden space where you can place offerings, meditate, and connect regularly with the spirits. This physical space serves as a focal point for your relationship with nature’s beings. Incorporate natural objects like stones, feathers, or plants that resonate with you.

A Call to the Seekers

Awaken your authentic spiritual path by joining Born as the Earth Zen Academy’s Apprentice training programs. Our training offers guided journeys, teachings, and community support to help you build meaningful relationships with nature spirits and your own inner medicine.

Sign up for our newsletter to receive regular insights, guided practices, and invitations to upcoming workshops.

Explore our Apprentice Training to deepen your journey into shamanic wisdom and authentic expression.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are nature spirits?
Nature spirits are conscious beings inhabiting the natural world, including animals, plants, and elemental forces.

Q: How do shamans communicate with nature spirits?
Through trance journeys, rituals, offerings, and meditation.

Q: Can anyone connect with nature spirits?
Yes, with respect and practice, anyone can develop this connection.

Q: What is the difference between a spirit animal and a nature spirit?
A spirit animal is a specific type of nature spirit that serves as a personal guide or ally, while nature spirits include a broader range of beings connected to all elements of the natural world.

Q: How can I start connecting with nature spirits?
Begin by spending mindful time in nature, offering gratitude, and exploring guided shamanic journeying practices.

Medicine of NATURE Module

Way of Medicine

21 August - 5 October 2025

Born as the Earth Zen Academy | BEZA | Elemental | Zen | Mentoring | Meditation | Generational Healing | Ancestors | Divination | Shamanic | Shamanism | Gatekeeper | DANA | Community Council | Buddhism | Spirituality | Nature | Mindfulness | Enlightenment | Awakening | Daido Roshi | Consciousness | Holistic | True Self | Wisdom | Medicine

Read the signs around you. Meet unpredictability with authenticity and curiosity. Trust your medicine to meet revolutionary moments with truth. In this Module we study medicine gifts; transformation; the trickster; authentic expression; transformation; shapeshifting and truth.

Shamanic Training Sessions

These private training sessions are a unique opportunity to learn various shamanic practices. It is recommended for you to plan for ongoing weekly or monthly personalized training sessions. The first session would engaged to discern where your particular inclination lies in the realm of shamanic practices: Dreamwork; Divination; Rituals; Healing; Intuition; The Medicine Wheel; Myths; Spirit Work etc..

Once on your path of self-exploration, individualized training and practices will be offered to you in which you will be guided to acknowledge, affirm and nurture your unique gifts on your path to becoming a healer.

Engagement with the Element of Nature at BEZA’s Zen Academy in Cape Town, Western Cape, highlighting mindfulness and spiritual growth through outdoor meditation practices and natural connection.

Why explore Shamanism?

I want to learn various shamanic practices

I want to expand my consciousness 

I want to access my inner wisdom

I want to know what my unique spiritual gifts are

PERSONAL SHAMANIC TRAINING

R900 per session (Africans)

€135 per session (Internationals)

Live training sessions with Ekan Nangaku (50min session)

Tues – Thurs  1-5pm SAST

NATURE-BASED WISDOM TALKS

2 x R1000 monthly payments (Africans)

2 x €150 monthly payments (Internationals)

Listen in live to 4 x online Nature-Based Wisdom talks delivered in the Advanced Training Modules (12 hrs of Elemental Teachings)

Create and perform your own customised transformational rituals alongside Apprentice and Student Gatekeepers