New Age Gathering

Vision Quest


Vision Quest
For this ceremony you will need:
Smudging herbs
a shell or fireproof dish
a fan or feather
matches
a rattle or drum if you have one
a blanket to sit on
a compass
a pen and notebook or journal
some water
herbs for give-away
any herbs, shells, feathers, or power objects that you resonate with for use during this ceremony
Preparation:
Determine whether the purpose of your Quest is to discover your direction in life or to find a solution to a major problem. Intention is vital in shamanic work so be very clear of your motive for your Quest.
Cut down on your food intake and alcohol a few days prior before your Vision Quest. Fasting is a traditional practice during the quest so take water or juice with you.
Choose a location where you will not be disturbed and arrive early in the morning. To locate the power spot, slowly rattle around the area until the rattle lingers in a particular spot. Use your compass to determine the four directions and mark them with stones or twigs. Rattle around your power spot in a clockwise circle.
Smudge yourself and the circle. Place the blanket in the center, sit, and make yourself comfortable.
Greet and thank the elements, stones, trees, plants, insects, and animals. Invite them to help you on your quest.
Stay alert, listen, look, and wait. And make a note of anything that seems significant so you can consider it later. The spiritual realm often communicates messages to us through ordinary things such as:
a visit by a particular bird, insect, or animal
a discarded feather nearby
shapes of clouds
changes in weather pattern
An insight may suddenly pop into your mind or you may have a vision.
At the end of your quest, thank your surroundings and look for some small token to take home such as a stone, feather, acorn, or stick. Sprinkle some herbs as a thank you offering and leave the area as you found it.
Take some time to write in your journal and reflect on your experience.
Adapted from "Shamanic Experience" by Kenneth Meadows

Posted by Cougar Sunday, November 12, 2006 (03:31:46)