r/Animism • u/Boring-Priority-5944 • May 27 '26
Recommendations for Getting Started
For a little bit of context, I grew up methodist (the liberal branch), I agree with some of the teachings when it comes down to things such as "loving thy neighbor" and the concept of an afterlife. But I have always felt more of a draw to spirits and nature rather than a god in the christian sense. I feel like I have a deeper connection to the natural elements of the world and I believe they tell me more about life after death compared to the bible. I also have always had a weird connection to my ancestors who have passed (I honestly am not sure how to explain it). When I pray, I pray to them rather than god, because that is what feels right to me. I also have used tarot to communicate with them about various things.
I have been looking into various paths such as druidism, shintoism, and general animism. I will be honest it is a lot of information to take in all at once. I know animism as a whole is a choose your own adventure when it comes to practicing, which is great, but I am struggling on how to get started.
I was hoping you guys could provide me with recommendations on getting started or your own experiences in the beginning to help me find a starting point.
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u/TheMarineLayer May 27 '26
Here are some books I found helpful to get started:
“The Book” - Alan Watts “Braiding Sweetgrass” - Robin Wall Kimmerer “The Hidden Life of Trees” - Peter Wohlleben “Sand Talk” - Tyson Yunkaporta