There’s incredible power in taking a moment to connect with those who came before us—whether they’re loved ones we’ve known or ancestors we’ve never met who paved the way for our lives today. Picture your roots stretching back through time, how many lives intertwined, how many choices and moments aligned, just so you could be right here, reading this now.
Take a moment to feel that connection. Feel the warmth and healing that come from sending love and gratitude to those who came before us. Remember the good and the bad, offer forgiveness where it’s needed, and honor their journey. This simple act of remembering and sending love can bring profound peace and a deep sense of belonging.
A Time to Honor
We’ve been loving the fire ceremonies we’ve started recently, and we plan to keep them going every month. Alongside these, we want to offer other shamanic healing events throughout the month, like community circles and online shamanic energy healing sessions to ensure everyone is included. If you want to stay in the loop, make sure you’re signed up for our mailing list or join our WhatsApp community here.
This week, we’re holding a circle for the New Moon in Scorpio and Samhain. Come join us for a sacred evening of renewal and connection as we celebrate Samhain—the ancient Celtic festival marking the transition into the darker half of the year. With the veil between worlds growing thin, Samhain gives us a powerful chance to honor our ancestors, release what no longer serves us, and set new intentions with the Scorpio New Moon. It’s a time to reflect deeply, connect with the wisdom of spirit guides, and plant seeds of transformation for the months ahead.
Shamanic Traditions from Around the World
When I was in South America studying Andean shamanic traditions, I took part in a dinner where we prepared a meal, setting aside a special plate for our ancestors and loved ones who weren’t physically there. Each dish represented abundance and gratitude for those who paved the way for us. As I set the plate aside, I felt a deep connection—a sense of presence that was almost tangible. It was humbling and beautiful, as if the energy of my ancestors filled the space.
In Andean shamanism, we honor our ancestors through offerings called despachos—beautifully arranged bundles of food, flowers, and sacred items. These bundles are offered to Pachamama (Mother Earth), the spirits of the land, and our ancestors. It’s a way of saying, “Thank you,” and giving back to those who have given us so much. It’s about ayni, the sacred balance of giving and receiving that keeps energy flowing.
In Mexico, Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) captures this spirit of honoring those who have passed. Families build ofrendas—altars—with photos, food, and drinks that their loved ones enjoyed. It’s believed that the souls of the departed return to visit, and through these offerings, we welcome them back and let them know they’re still part of our lives. It’s a reminder that death isn’t the end, but a continuation, a weaving of their presence into our daily lives.
Samhain, in Celtic tradition, is another time when the veil between worlds is thin, making it easier to connect with our ancestors. Families would set a place at the table for the spirits, leave offerings of bread or fruit, and invite their presence into the home. These small gestures ensured that the spirits felt recognized and respected—inviting their blessings and keeping balance between worlds.
There are many more examples from around the world and it's amazing how cultures, disconnected by geography, were all doing similar things at the same time of year. There’s something universal about this practice—a shared reverence for those who came before us, for the roots that ground us.
If you’re feeling called to connect, we’d love to have you join our upcoming shamanic healing ceremony. Save your space here and join us online in honoring those who came before us.
Why Do We Honor Our Ancestors?
Reciprocity and Gratitude: Setting out a plate for our ancestors is a simple yet profound act. It acknowledges that we are still in relationship with them, that their influence and presence continue. It’s about giving thanks, nurturing that bond with love and gratitude.
Connection and Communion: Food is life force, and offering it invites our ancestors to share in this moment. We let them know they’re remembered and still part of our lives. By inviting them in, we recognize their wisdom and guidance, and we welcome their protection.
Spiritual Nourishment: While our ancestors may no longer need physical food, energy flows through intention. Offering them food sends a message of love and respect, and in return, we receive their blessings and insights. It’s an exchange of energy that nourishes both sides.
Healing Ancestral Patterns: Honoring our ancestors can also be deeply healing. It’s a way of releasing patterns and wounds that have been passed down through generations. By making an offering, we create space for forgiveness, healing, and transformation—for ourselves and for those who came before us.
Spirit Guides and Signs
During this time of year, as the veil thins, we’ll be going on shamanic journeys to connect with our ancestors, loved ones, and spirit guides. Just last week in Sedona, Paula asked for a sign—something undeniable to prove that her spirit guides were there. As she opened her eyes, there was a deer standing right in front of her, staring at her. It stayed for what felt like an eternity. Moments like that are powerful reminders that our guides are always close, always listening.
Creating Your Own Offering
If you want to connect with your ancestors or spirit guides, here’s a simple way to create an offering:
Create a Simple Plate: It doesn’t have to be elaborate. A piece of bread, some fruit, tea, or even a favorite treat of your loved one is enough.
Add Personal Elements: Include a photo, a small memento, or write a note of gratitude to your ancestor. Make it personal.
Light a Candle: The light of a candle acts as a beacon, guiding their spirits to your space.
Say a Silent Blessing or Prayer: Take a moment to reflect on your relationship with the ancestor you’re honoring. Express gratitude or let go of anything you’ve been holding onto.
Share the Offering: Once you’ve finished, eat or share the food with family. It’s a way to complete the circle of giving and receiving, to bring the connection back into the present moment.
These small rituals may seem simple, but they carry deep meaning. They remind us that we are never alone, that our ancestors walk with us, and that every step we take is part of a greater journey—one that began long before us and will continue long after.
Thank you for taking this journey with us. If you feel called, join our next event or take a moment today to honor those who came before you. Stay connected—we’d love to hear your stories and experiences. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions. Let’s continue growing, healing, and honoring together.
With love and gratitude,
Matt & Paula
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