Courses and Workshops
An Introduction to Shamanism
One Day Workshop
Date: Saturday 31st January 2026
Time: 10am - 4.30pm (ish)
Place: The Sanctuary, St Ethelwolds, Abingdon
Cost: Donation - suggested £45 for the day (lower donation spaces are available if needed)
Introduction to Shamanic Practice: A Journey of Connection & Healing
Step out of the ordinary and into a deeper relationship with yourself, spirit and the web of life.
Shamanism is one of the world’s oldest spiritual healing practices—not as a religion, but as a way of life that honors the Earth as a conscious being. This immersive, one-day workshop offers a grounded introduction to shamanism as both an ancient wisdom and a practical tool for modern living.
Whether you are looking for personal healing, deeper wisdom, or a stronger connection to the mystery of life, this day provides a safe, supportive, and small-group environment to explore your inner world.
What to Expect
This is an experiential and reflective day. We weave together individual practice, group sharing, and discussion to help you integrate your experiences.
Small Group Setting: Limited to just 8 participants to ensure a safe, intimate, and supportive space.
The Shamanic Journey: Learn the core practice of shamanic journeying, also sometimes known as "dreaming" or "active imagination." You will receive clear, safe guidance on how to enter journey states to seek insight and healing.
Guided Practices: We will engage in 3 or 4 journeys, focusing on connecting with non-ordinary reality and gaining personal metaphors for insight and healing.
Integration: Learn how to translate "inner" experiences into "outer" reality. Gentle coaching on how to weave shamanic practices into your everyday life.
Who is this for?
No previous experience is required. This workshop is open to anyone, regardless of cultural or spiritual background. All you need is:
An open mind and a sense of curiosity.
A willingness to explore the interconnectedness of nature, body, and spirit.
The Details
A Relational Path: We explore shamanism as a spiritual practice and a way of listening—to nature, to the intuitive body, and to the imagination.
Safe & Grounded: The day is held with care, ensuring that every participant feels safe and grounded as they also explore these deep spiritual realms.
Lasting Tools: You will leave with a clear understanding of how to continue journey work on your own.
"Shamanic practices adapt naturally to individual beliefs, recognizing that reality extends far beyond the physical world."
What to Bring
To make the most of your experience and stay comfortable during the journey work, please bring the following:
Comfortable Clothing: Wear layers so you can adjust to your temperature while sitting or lying down.For the Journey: A yoga mat, a warm blanket, and a small cushion or pillow.Eye Covering: A dedicated eye mask or a soft scarf to help deepen your focus during guided journeys.Journal & Pen: To record your insights, images, and reflections throughout the day.Lunch: Please bring a packed lunch. Light refreshments (tea and snacks) will be provided.An Object for the Altar (Optional): You are welcome to bring a small natural object (a stone, feather, or crystal) to place on our shared central space during the workshop.
What’s Included
Expert Facilitation: Guided sessions led by Mia, integrating therapeutic safety with shamanic depth.Small Group Focus: Personalized attention within a maximum group size of 8.Teaching Materials: Handouts or guidance on how to continue your journey practice at home.Refreshments: A selection of herbal teas and light snacks provided during breaks.
A Glimpse into the Day
While we move with the rhythm of the group, our flow typically follows this path:
Morning: Opening circle and introduction to shamanic cosmology.The Foundation: Talk on shamanism, and the "how-to" of the shamanic journey and practice. Midday: Lunch Afternoon: Shamanism and healing Talk, and two healing-focused journey practices. Closing: Practical coaching on integrating these experiences into your daily life, next steps, meditation and a closing circle.
About Your Facilitator: Mia Sarosi
Mia Sarosi is a therapist and coach whose work sits at the intersection of creative expression, trauma-informed therapy, and shamanic practice. With a professional background in the creative arts (ceramics and illustration) and a full-time practice in Internal Family Systems (IFS) psychotherapy and transformative coaching, Mia brings a grounded, relational approach to the spiritual path.
Her work is deeply informed by the nervous system and the psyche’s innate capacity for healing when met with safety and compassion. She views shamanism not as a separate pursuit, but as a vital way of remembering our place within the interconnected web of life.
Training & Lineage
Mia is currently in training as a shamanic teacher and has spent years immersing herself in core shamanic approaches. Her path has been shaped by many respected teachers and organizations, including:
The Sacred Trust
Christa Mackinnon
Two Birds Cunningham (Embracing Shamanism)
Betsy Bergstrom
Animate Earth and other contemporary practitioners.
Her Approach
As a facilitator, Mia holds space with humility and ethics. She does not position herself as a "guru," but as a guide who tends the space where your own inner wisdom can arise. Her goal is to help you bridge the gap between "non-ordinary" experiences and the textures of everyday life, supporting a deepening relationship with yourself and the Earth.
