Shamanic Healing

Shamanism is an ancient Spiritual Path that explores a way of living in harmony with the world around us. It is possibly the oldest organized spiritual _expression, although it is unclear as to how it really began, be it as a set of ideas from scattered cultures, or whether a core of early humans carried its first forms with them during epic migrations. Whatever the case, the essential ideas of a living Spirit are found all over the world. Shamanism has been practiced in many forms all over the world for thousands of years, growing in some communities into more complicated faiths, being absorbed by or absorbing other religious movements. The common features relating to Shamanism lie in the underlying concept of a living, conscious world, where everything is alive and spirit (our sense of self and personality) can be found in every other worldly inhabitant. The expert in communication between humans and the non human worlds in these cultures is called the Shaman. These people serve their communities by finding paths to harmony for their people which will also contribute to the growth and survival of the whole world, rather than being a benefit at the expense of the world around them. A Shamanic harmony is an active state, a dynamic relationship between all that exists. The Shamans peace is a vibrant, thrilling pattern of connection wherein life and growth are celebrated and the world itself is a waking part of the equation. This brings the perceptions of animal, plant, stone and water to the shamans deliberations as their spirits are independent beings in their own rights, with their own agendas, quarrels, hopes and fears and the shaman must be able to meet and talk to those beings, facilitating their cooperation with the community. Shamans learn to separate themselves from everyday reality by learning long established techniques which involve song, music, dance, drugs, pain or stillness which draw them into trance. From this state they can enter realms where they can communicate directly with the Spirits, developing relationships with spiritual helpers and drawing upon initiation ceremonies, Vigil and VisionQuest, conduct healing and find those safe paths to peace with the world that they seek for both individuals and the community as a whole. There is no single philosophy or set of teachings that defines the practice of shamanism. It evolved in many cultures over the world as a tool for survival and it's forms are diverse and unpredictable. Being a shaman is more about following a vocation and fulfilling a role than pursuing any particular faith.


Shaman Meditation I


One of the most important parts of being a Shaman is meditation. For it is through this that a shaman gains access to the astral plane and all who dwell there. Sounds like fun huh? Well, it is. Though meditation is easy for some it takes practice for others.


The ability to meditate "properly" is an involved process. No, by properly I do not mean that there is only one way. Each Shaman must find their own path to the astral realm, but I do have a few suggestions that might make it easier. Most are common sense, but there has been a horrible lack in meditation development by people in the last several hundred years as Orthodox Religions have branded any form of spiritualism other than their "Way" as "Of the devil" and worse.


As you begin your journeys as a Shaman (and there will be many), it is important to know a few things about what you are doing and how. If you are a beginning Shaman or a person in search of their path, then I suggest you purchase a book or two. These books are not "The only way!" things should be done; However, I believe you will find it helpful on your journey to benefit from the experiences of others.


Here are a few basic Helpful Hints!


1). Choose a quiet and peaceful place.
Sounds easy enough but it is helpful to make sure that you will not be disturbed by ringing phones and annoying interruptions. Choose your place and be open to yourself as you begin your meditations.


2). Be comfortable
The purpose of your meditation is to break away from the physical body and soar into the astral worlds. If you are uncomfortable you will be more likely to be rapidly drawn back to the physical right about the time you are finding what you are looking for. Trust me on this it happens to everyone!


3). Relax!
"Relax!" he says. Yeah, I know. Relaxing is sometimes difficult in today's world. With all the hustle and bustle of the chaotic world, it can be difficult to let go of yourself and journey within and without. Some light calm music or nature sounds will help.


4). Let go of the self and look to your center of power
Just about every "spiritual" person has a center of power. It is that place within yourself that you will find your own spirit and power. In this place you are in control and peace is everywhere. Take in that peace as it will serve you well in your journeys to elsewhere.


5) Take a hold of your power!
Feel the brightness and serenity of your "being" and absorb the power that peace brings you. This power is yours and no one can take it away from you. Celebrate in it and find peace. As your get better, you will feel a sort of wavy and rippling in your skin Don't worry, it happens to everyone. Let go and begin your journey.


6). Visualize and again, RELAX!
For some people, the entrance to the astral plane is not pretty. It is horrifying to people because of the way they were indoctrinated as children. For most of us, spiritualism was equated with "Satan" and "evil". Let go of this and you will be better off.


Now these are just a few helpful hints. If you have found your path lies in Shamanism then your journeys have only begun.