Choosing the Right Shamanic Tools: A Guide to Drums, Rattles, and Beyond

Shamanic tools are more than just objects; they are bridges to spiritual realms, aids in healing, and companions on personal journeys. Selecting the right tools can deepen your practice and enhance your connection to the energies you work with. This guide explores popular shamanic instruments like drums and rattles, and offers practical advice on how to choose the ones that resonate with you.

Traditional shamanic drum with natural hide and wooden frame

Understanding the Role of Shamanic Tools

Shamanic tools serve as extensions of the practitioner’s intention and energy. They help focus the mind, alter consciousness, and communicate with spirits or guides. Each tool has a unique vibration and purpose:

• Drums create rhythmic beats that induce trance states and facilitate journeying.

• Rattles break up stagnant energy and call in protective spirits.

• Feathers, stones, and staffs can direct energy or symbolise elements and power.

  
  

Choosing tools that feel aligned with your spirit and practice is essential for effective work.

How to Choose a Shamanic Drum

Drums are often the centerpiece of shamanic practice. When selecting a drum, consider these factors:

• Size and weight: Smaller drums are easier to carry for traveling or ceremonies, while larger drums produce deeper, resonant sounds.

• Material: Look for natural materials like wood and animal hide. These materials carry organic energy and respond well to your touch.

• Sound quality: Test the drum’s tone. It should feel grounding and clear, not harsh or tinny.

• Craftsmanship: Handmade drums often carry more energy and intention than mass-produced ones.

  
  

For example, a frame drum with a 16-inch diameter made from elk hide offers a rich, warm sound and is popular among many practitioners.

Selecting the Right Rattle

Rattles come in many forms, from simple seed-filled gourds to elaborate bone or shell designs. Here’s how to find one that suits your needs:

• Sound: Choose a rattle with a sound that feels uplifting or cleansing to you. Some prefer sharp, crisp rattles; others like softer, rolling sounds.

• Materials: Natural materials like wood, seeds, shells, and bones connect you to the earth and ancestors.

• Size and grip: The rattle should feel comfortable in your hand and easy to shake during ceremonies.

• Symbolism: Some rattles incorporate symbols or carvings that add layers of meaning.

  
  

A cedar wood rattle filled with river seeds is a good example of a tool that combines natural sound with symbolic connection to water and growth.

Hand-crafted wooden rattle filled with seeds, close-up view

Exploring Other Essential Shamanic Tools

Beyond drums and rattles, many practitioners use additional tools to support their work:

• Feathers: Used to direct energy or cleanse spaces. Eagle or hawk feathers are common, but any feather that calls to you can work.

• Stones and crystals: These hold specific energies and can be carried or placed on altars.

• Staffs or wands: Represent power and authority, often used to channel energy during rituals.

• Smudge sticks: Bundles of herbs like sage or cedar used for cleansing and protection.

  
  

When choosing these tools, trust your intuition. The tool that feels right will often stand out by its energy or appearance.

Caring for Your Shamanic Tools

Once you have your tools, maintaining their energy is crucial. Here are some tips:

• Cleanse regularly with smoke, sunlight, or moonlight.

• Store respectfully in cloth bags or special boxes.

• Charge with intention before use by holding them and focusing on your purpose.

• Repair or replace worn parts to keep the tool functional and energetically strong.

  
  

Treat your tools as sacred partners in your spiritual work.

Shamanic altar with feathers, stones, and smudge sticks arranged neatly

Final Thoughts on Choosing Shamanic Tools

When I first choose a shamanic tool, I make sure that it 'feels' right. If a small unsettling feeling arises in my stomach, I put the tool down immediately. If I feel calm or even excited, such as feeling energy running up my spine, I know that I have found the right tool for me. I bring the tool home and put it in the windowsill overnight to soak in the moonlight energy. I often do that on full moon nights as well, to cleanse the energy in my tools and crystals.

Happy searching - with patience and connection!