“Soul loss can be defined as a type of fragmentation that can occur after some type of trauma. Psychologically, it can be explained as dissociation, but it’s a way we learn to survive traumatic events.”

This can happen at any time and can also build up gradually. When we become burnt out (physically, mentally, emotionally, and/or spiritually), have strayed from our purpose, or experience something traumatizing, any of these things can cause the soul to “disconnect.”

There are many reasons why soul loss occurs: trauma, unhealthy relationships, attachment issues, mental illness, addiction, or unresolved or repressed emotional states. It is important to note that trauma itself is subjective. On a soul level, even events that seem inconsequential or ordinary can cause soul loss, as it results from an inability of the soul to integrate a painful or emotional experience; instead, a ‘part’ chooses to split off and away from the soul. Similarly, parts can be disowned by the soul, if they are deemed too dangerous, frightening, or difficult to manage. An aspect of the self can be blamed for a negative experience or trauma, and cast off for this reason. A troubled relationship can also result in soul loss, as we are capable of holding onto energetic pieces of other people…and they are equally capable of taking parts of us with them. You have likely heard the terms “energy vampire” or “soul sucker.” When involved in interpersonal drama, it is easy to see how energies can be exchanged, given away, fractured, or stolen.

Around the world and across many cultures a person who deals with the spiritual aspect of illness is a shaman. A shaman diagnoses and treats illnesses, divines information, communicates and interacts with the spirit world…and helps souls cross over to the other world.” Because of their ability to navigate the spirit world, shamans can guide you through these realms to help retrieve the lost fragments of your soul. A shaman will enter trance states together with the affected person. Together, they will journey through the spirit worlds, accompanied by spirit helpers, setting the intention to retrieve the lost parts of the soul. The journey is narrated to the client or could also be visualized through active imagination.

These journeys may involve encounters with dark energies that may show themselves as dangerous beasts like monsters, reptiles or dragons. The beasts in question are the guardians of the soul, or known as defense mechanisms in psychotherapy. Successfully retrieving the fragmented parts of the soul means having to overcome these dark energies. Once the shaman and the client are able to retrieve the missing parts of the soul, the shaman will reintegrate these back together with the client. Reintegration can be done several ways such as by blowing the energy back into the body, through a ceremony.

You don’t have to go through life feeling lost or wondering why it feels like there is a missing part of you. With the help of soul retrieval, you can reintegrate your soul and get to experience what it feels like to be thriving and whole once again.

~ Sandra Ingerman “