Fantazie, nebo realita? Dlouhodobé změny v kategorizaci zkušeností u praktikujících neo-šamanů

Practicing neo-shamans in the Czech Republic gradually shift how they categorize experiences along the fantasy-reality spectrum. Novices initially regard shamanic journeys as fantasies, but with sustained practice these come to be perceived as real. Concurrently, everyday events take on symbolic meaning, becoming viewed primarily as signs. Over time, spiritual engagement becomes interwoven with mundane reality, potentially exerting significant influence on daily life.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Fantasy or reality? Long-term shifts in experience categorization among practicing neo-shamans This study explores neo-shamanism within the contemporary alternative spirituality landscape. Drawing on extensive qualitative research conducted in the Czech Republic, employing methodologies such as participant observation and semi-structured interviews, it delves into the experiential aspect of this phenomenon. The primary objective of the study is to investigate how practitioners categorize their neo-shamanic experiences and perceptions, examining where they position them along the spectrum of real and imaginary. Furthermore, the study seeks to elucidate the shifts in categorization that occur over time with sustained practice. The findings reveal that neo-shamanic teachings challenge the conventional boundaries between fantasy and reality. In the practice of neo-shamanism, what are initially regarded as mere fantasies, particularly the experiences of shamanic journeys by novices, gradually transform into perceived realities for seasoned practitioners. Conversely, events from everyday life begin to take on symbolic significance, viewed primarily assigns. Consequently, the spiritual engagement of neo-shamans becomes closely interwoven with their mundane reality, potentially exerting a significant influence therein.