Steven “TwoSkies” Garrett
Shamanic practices have been gaining recognition in modern times for their profound ability to address emotional, spiritual, and even physical imbalances. Among these practices, one technique that stands out for me and my work is soul retrieval, a transformative method aimed at restoring wholeness by addressing spiritual fragmentation. Popularized by Sandra Ingerman and rooted in the teachings of her mentor, Michael Harner, soul retrieval offers a pathway to healing and integration in a world that often feels fragmented and disconnected.
The Concept of Soul Loss
In shamanic traditions, it is believed that a person’s soul is their essence, their life force, and the source of their vitality. However, traumatic events, prolonged stress, or emotional pain can cause parts of the soul to fragment and detach as a form of self-protection. This phenomenon, known as “soul loss,” is understood to be a survival mechanism, preventing a person from fully experiencing overwhelming pain. While this may offer short-term relief, soul loss can result in long-term issues, including feelings of emptiness, depression, disconnection, or chronic illness.
Traditional shamans perceive soul loss not as a metaphor but as a literal energetic disconnection. Without these vital soul parts, individuals may struggle to find fulfillment, repeating patterns of unhelpful behavior or feeling a pervasive sense of incompleteness. I have found that people with soul loss often feel emotionally stuck and lacking in energy, joy and childlike awe and wonder.
Soul Retrieval: The Path to Wholeness
Soul retrieval is the process of locating and reintegrating these lost soul parts, restoring balance and vitality to the individual. In this practice, a shaman or trained practitioner enters an altered state of consciousness, often through drumming, rattling, or other rhythmic techniques, to journey into the spiritual realms. Guided by helping spirits or power animals, the practitioner seeks out the missing soul fragments, retrieves them, and returns them to the individual.
The process is both symbolic and deeply transformative. Clients often report immediate emotional shifts, heightened clarity, and a renewed sense of purpose after a soul retrieval session. However, integration—the process of fully embodying and working with the returned soul parts—is a vital aspect of the healing journey. To that end, I help clients create a space in their heart that is child friendly through such techniques as inner-child work and remembering a favorite childhood memory.
Sandra Ingerman: A Pioneer in Modern Shamanism
Sandra Ingerman, a world-renowned shamanic practitioner and teacher, has been instrumental in bringing the ancient practice of soul retrieval to contemporary audiences. A licensed therapist as well as a shamanic healer, Ingerman bridges the gap between traditional shamanic wisdom and modern psychology. Her groundbreaking book, Soul Retrieval: Mending the Fragmented Self, has become a cornerstone text for those exploring shamanic healing practices. It was certainly a formative text for me when I started on this path back in 2012.
Ingerman’s work emphasizes the importance of addressing trauma and soul loss within a compassionate, non-judgmental framework. She believes that soul retrieval is not just about reclaiming what was lost but also about rediscovering one’s inner light and potential. Through her teachings, workshops, and writings, Ingerman has helped thousands of individuals worldwide reconnect with their spiritual essence and step into lives of greater empowerment.
The Process of Soul Retrieval
A typical soul retrieval session begins with the practitioner creating a sacred and safe space. Using rhythmic drumming or other methods, the practitioner enters a trance state and journeys to the spiritual realms. Guided by helping spirits, they locate the lost soul fragments and gently bring them back to the individual.
Upon returning, the practitioner “blows” the retrieved soul parts into the client’s body, often focusing on the heart or crown chakra. This act symbolizes the reintegration of lost vitality and essence. The client is then encouraged to reflect on their experience and engage in practices that support the integration process, such as journaling, meditation, or ritual.
The Importance of Integration
While the retrieval itself can be a powerful and immediate experience, integration is where the deeper healing unfolds. Ingerman often emphasizes the need for clients to consciously welcome back their soul parts, honor their return, and make lifestyle adjustments to support their wholeness. This might involve setting boundaries, engaging in creative expression, or cultivating a spiritual practice. With my clients, I have them engage in childhood activities for a few days after the soul retrieval, all the while talking with the newly returned child soul part to make them feel welcome. Such activities may include going out for treats, playing with pets or small children, watching kids movies, etc.
A Timeless Practice for Modern Times
Soul retrieval is not just an ancient practice; it is a relevant and necessary tool for becoming whole in an increasingly fragmented world. As more people seek healing that addresses the root causes of their struggles, shamanic practices like soul retrieval offer a unique and immediate pathway to reconnect with one’s true essence.
If soul retrieval sounds like it resonates with you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I will check in with Spirit to see if this practice would be of benefit to you.