Exploring Norse Shamanism: History, Creation Myths, Goddesses, and Practices

Norse shamanism offers a fascinating glimpse into the spiritual world of the ancient Norse people. Rooted in deep connections with nature, gods, and the cosmos, this tradition blends ritual, myth, and reverence for powerful deities. Understanding Norse shamanism means exploring its origins, the creation stories that shaped its worldview, the important roles of Norse goddesses, and the practices that allowed shamans to bridge worlds.

Ancient Norse ritual site with standing stones

The Origins and History of Norse Shamanism

Norse shamanism developed among the early Scandinavian peoples before and during the Viking Age in roughly the 8th to 11th centuries AD. It is a spiritual system centred on the shaman, a mediator between the human world and the spirit realm. Shamans used trance, drumming, and ritual to communicate with gods, ancestors, and nature spirits.

This tradition predates the Christianisation of Scandinavia and reflects a worldview where everything is alive and interconnected. The Norse believed in multiple realms, including Midgard (the human world), Asgard (home of the gods), and Jotunheim (land of giants). Shamans acted as guides, healers, and protectors, often called völvas or seiðkonas in Old Norse texts.

The practice was closely tied to animism, where natural elements like trees, rivers, and animals held spiritual significance. Shamans would enter altered states to seek wisdom, healing, or prophecy, often using tools such as staffs, drums, and runes.

Creation Myths in Norse Shamanism

Norse creation myths provide the foundation for understanding the cosmos and humanity’s place within it. One of the central stories begins with the void called Ginnungagap, bordered by the fiery realm of Muspelheim and the icy realm of Niflheim. From this void emerged Ymir, the primordial giant, and the cosmic cow Audhumla.

Ymir’s body became the building blocks of the world after he was slain by the gods Odin, Vili, and Ve. His flesh formed the earth, his blood the seas, his bones the mountains, and his skull the sky. This myth reflects the Norse belief in transformation and cycles of life and death.

Another key figure is Odin, the Allfather, who sacrificed himself on the World Tree, Yggdrasil, to gain knowledge of the runes. This act symbolizes the shamanic journey of death and rebirth, a core theme in Norse shamanism.

The Role of Norse Goddesses in Spiritual Practice

Norse goddesses hold vital roles in the spiritual landscape, often embodying natural forces, fertility, wisdom, and protection. They are central to many rituals and myths, influencing daily life and the shaman’s work.

Among the sun goddesses, Sól stands out as the personification of the sun, riding her chariot across the sky to bring light and warmth. Her journey is essential for life and the balance of nature.

The moon goddesses also play important roles. Máni, though often depicted as male, is associated with the moon’s cycles, which influence tides, agriculture, and magic. Some traditions honour female lunar figures connected to intuition and the subconscious.

Other prominent Norse goddesses include:

• Freyja, goddess of love, fertility, and war, who also guides souls to the afterlife.

• Frigg, Odin’s wife, associated with marriage, motherhood, and prophecy.

• Skadi, a goddess of winter and the mountains, representing resilience and independence.

  
  

Shamans often called upon these goddesses for guidance, healing, and protection during rituals.

Carved wooden figure of Norse goddess Freyja

Practices and Rituals in Norse Shamanism

Norse shamanism involves a variety of practices designed to connect with the spiritual world and harness its power. These include:

• Seiðr: A form of magic and divination practiced by shamans, often involving chanting, trance, and the use of staffs or wands. Seiðr was used to influence fate, heal, or communicate with spirits.

• Runic divination: Using runes carved on wood or stone, shamans interpreted symbols to gain insight or predict outcomes.

• Spirit journeys: Shamans entered trance states to travel between worlds, seeking knowledge or healing for individuals or the community.

• Offerings and sacrifices: Rituals often included offerings to gods and spirits, such as food, drink, or crafted items, to gain favour or express gratitude.

• Nature worship: Sacred groves, springs, and stones were common sites for rituals, emphasising the connection between humans and the natural world.

  
  

These practices required deep knowledge of mythology, natural cycles, and spiritual etiquette. Shamans were respected figures who maintained balance between the seen and unseen worlds.

Norse ritual tools including drum, runes, and staff

Embracing Norse Shamanism Today

Interest in Norse shamanism has grown in modern times among spiritual seekers and historians alike. Its emphasis on nature, personal connection to the divine, and respect for ancient wisdom resonates with those looking for meaningful spiritual paths.

Practicing Norse shamanism today involves studying the myths, learning about the goddesses and gods, and engaging in rituals that honour the old ways. Many find value in connecting with the cycles of the sun and moon, using runes for guidance, and cultivating a relationship with the natural world.

This tradition offers a rich spiritual framework that blends history, myth, and practice. It invites individuals to explore their own inner worlds while honouring the powerful forces that shaped the Norse cosmos.