TUVAN KAM
PRACTICES
The main tools used in the work of the Tuvan shaman, in addition to the divination stones "Khuvaanak", are also horse juniper, shaman's drum, traditional Tuvan whip, traditional bells "Kyngyraash" and a shaman's mirror. There are also additional attributes and rituals that were passed on to him from his ancestors.
Khuvaanak
Divination stones are collected at nine mountain passes and in the waters of nine rivers. They serve to diagnose problems, identify their causes, identify ill-wishers, search for things and people, predict the future. Since the placement of Khuvaanak can symbolize the paths of fate, an experienced shaman using stones can open the way, remove life's obstacles, ill-wishers, and reduce the influence of evil forces.
Khuvaanak fortune-telling represented by throwing stones.
Khuvaanak fortune-telling represented by the division of stones
Algysh
A chant that is a request-prayer to the protective forces of the Eternal Blue Sky and the ancestors, calling them allies. Allows you to get their protection, strength and patronage.
Singing algysh during the solstice ritual in the place Aldyn Bulak, Tuva.
Shamanic Tuvan drum
The Tuvan shaman drum is part of the soul of a traditional shaman. The drum itself represents the Universe, and its sound is the pulse of the Universe. Depending on the skin of which animal the tambourine is made of, it can be used for different purposes.
Solar energized drum at the ancestral site of Ailygbai, Tuva.
Eeren is the keeper inside the drum.
Artysh
If you kindle an artysh (Tuvan high-mountain horse juniper) in the world of people, its smoke immediately enters the world of spirits. Thus, artysh smoke is the main shamanic tool used to interact with various spirits.
Dried artysh for rituals.
Artysh in the natural environment in the mountainous area.
Tuvan whip
The lash is made from a special kind of redwood meadowsweet and symbolizes the rider's lash. It serves to exorcise evil spirits, who are very afraid of her blows.
Kymchy made of red tavolga and horsehide.
Kyngyraash
It is made from meadowsweet and ritual bells. It serves to cleanse the space and drive out evil spirits. The sound of the shamanic kyngyraash bells is unbearable for evil beings.
Spirit helper kyngyraash
Kuzungu
Shaman mirror "Kuzungu" contains the power of the Sun. It reflects other worlds and spirits. In addition, reflecting evil entities, the mirror serves as a shield for the shaman.
Kuzungu amulet in the shaman's office in Adyg Eeren.
Ritual bonfires
A ritual bonfire, like fire in general, has a lot of meanings in shamanism. It is used to transfer gifts to spirits, attract allied spirits, and for funeral rites. A shamanic rite with a fire is the most important ritual that allows you to invite spirits, ask them for help or thank them.
An offering to ancestors by means of a bonfire in the place of Ailygbai, Tuva.
Preparing a ritual bonfire for nature spirits.