Shamanism And Related Studies

Shamanism and related studies

A shaman is a medicine man or woman. Shaman are spiritual beings with the ability to heal, work with energies and 'see' visions. The essential characteristics of shaman are mastery of energy and fire as a medium of transformation.

Shamanism is a range of traditional beliefs and practices that involve the ability to diagnose, cure, and sometimes cause human suffering by traversing the axis mundi and forming a special relationship with, or gaining control over, spirits. Shamans have been credited with the ability to control the weather, divination, the interpretation of dreams, astral projection, and traveling to upper and lower worlds. Shamanistic traditions have existed throughout the world since prehistoric times. Shamanism is based on the premise that the visible world is pervaded by invisible forces or spirits that affect the lives of the living. In contrast to animism and animatism, which any and usually all members of a society practice, shamanism requires specialized knowledge or abilities. Shamans are not, however, organized into full-time ritual or spiritual associations, as are priests. Etymology The word shaman originated among the Siberian Tungus (Evenks) and literally means he (or she) who knows; the belief that the word may be derived from Sanskrit is perhaps due to a confusion of the words 'shamanism' and 'shramanism', from the sanskrit shramana, Pali and Prakrit samana; but the samanas were ascetics, not shamans. It has replaced the older English language term witch doctor, a term which unites the two stereotypical functions of the shaman: knowledge of magical and other lore, and the ability to cure a person and mend a situation. However, at the present time this term is generally considered to be pejorative and anthropologically inaccurate. Medicine man is preferred, especially as not all traditional peoples approve of the use of shaman as a generic term, given that the word comes from a specific place and people. History Shamanistic practices are thought to predate all organized religions, and certainly date back to the neolithic period. Aspects of shamanism are encountered in later, organized religions, generally in their mystic and symbolic practices. Greek paganism was influenced by shamanism, as reflected in the stories of Tantalus, Prometheus, Medea, Calypso among others, as well as in the Eleusinian Mysteries, and other mysteries. Some of the shamanic practices of the Greek religion were later adopted into the Roman religion. There is a strong shamanistic influence in the Bön religion of central Asia, and in Tibetan Buddhism. Buddhism became popular with shamanic peoples such as the Tibetans, Mongols and Manchu beginning with the eighth century. Forms of shamanistic ritual combined with Tibetan Buddhism became institutionalized as the state religion under the Chinese Yuan dynasty and Qing dynasty. One common element of shamanism and Buddhism is the attainment of spiritual realization, at times mediated by entheogenic (psychedelic) substances. The shamanic practices of many cultures were virtually wiped out with the spread of Christianity. In Europe, starting around 400 CE, the Christian church was instrumental in the collapse of the Greek and Roman religions. Temples were systematically destroyed and key ceremonies were outlawed. Beginning with the middle ages and continuing into the Renaissance, remnants of European shamanism were wiped out by campaigns against witches. These campaigns were often orchestrated by the Catholic Inquisition. The repression of shamanism continued as Christian influence spread with Spanish colonization. In the Caribbean, and Central and South America, Catholic priests followed in the footsteps of the Conquistadors and were instrumental in the destruction of the local traditions, denouncing practitioners as "devil worshippers" and having them executed. In North America, the English Puritans conducted periodic campaigns against individuals perceived as witches. More recently, attacks on shamanic practitioners have been carried out at the hands of Christian missionaries to third world countries. As recently as the nineteen seventies, historic petroglyphs were being defaced by missionaries in the Amazon.

It has been postulated that modern state campaigns against the use of psychedelic substances are the offshoot of previous religious campaigns against shamanism.Today, shamanism, once universal, survives primarily among indigenous peoples. Shamanic practice continues today in the tundras, jungles, deserts, and other rural areas, and also in cities, towns, suburbs and shantytowns all over the world. This is especially widespread in Africa as well as South America, where "mestizo shamanism" is widespread. Many recent efforts have been made trying to link shamanic practice and knowledge with Western, scientific beliefs. Anthropologist Jeremy Narby has proposed that shamans take their consciousness down to the molecular level, working with DNA and viruses that they see as the twin serpents or malicious "darts". The holomovement theory proposed by David Bohm is often seen as an approach to create a scientific foundation for concepts such as parallel worlds and alternative ways to traverse time and space. Aspects of the Practice Different forms of shamanism are found around the world, and practitioners are also known as medicine men or women, as well as witch doctors. Initiation and Learning In Shamanic cultures, the shaman plays a priest like role; however, there is an essential difference between the two, as Joseph Campbell describes: The priest is the socially initiated, ceremonially inducted member of a recognized religious organization, where he holds a certain rank and functions as the tenant of an office that was held by others before him, while the shaman is one who, as a consequence of a personal psychological crisis, has gained a certain power of his own. A shaman may be initiated via a serious illness, by being struck by lightning, or by a near-death experience (e.g. the shaman Black Elk), and there usually is a set of cultural imagery expected to be experienced during shamanic initiation regardless of method. According to Mircea Eliade, such imagery often includes being transported to the spirit world and interacting with beings inhabiting it, meeting a spiritual guide, being devoured by some being and emerging transformed, and/or being "dismantled" and "reassembled" again, often with implanted amulets such as magical crystals. The imagery of initiation generally speaks of transformation and granting powers, and often entails themes of death and rebirth. In some societies shamanic powers are considered to be inherited whereas in others shamans are considered to have been "called" - Among the Siberian Chukchis one may behave in ways that Western clinicians would characterize as psychotic, but which Siberian culture interprets as possession by a spirit who demands that one assume the shamanic vocation. Among the South American Tapirape shamans are called in their dreams. In other societies shamans choose their career: First Nations would seek communion with spirits through a "vision quest"; South American Shuar, seeking the power to defend their family against enemies, apprentice themselves to accomplished shamans. Practice and method The shaman plays the role of healer in shamanic societies; shamans gain knowledge and power by traversing the axis mundi and bringing back knowledge from the heavens. Even in western society, this ancient practice of healing is referenced by the use of the caduceus as the symbol of medicine. Oftentimes the shaman has, or acquires, one or more familiar helping entities in the spirit world; these are often spirits in animal form, spirits of healing plants, or (sometimes) those of departed shamans. In many

shamanic societies, magic, magical force, and knowledge are all denoted by one word, such as the Quechua term yachay. While the causes of disease are considered to lie in the realm of the spiritual, being effected by malicious spirits or Witchcraft, spiritual methods as well as what we would consider physical methods are used to heal. The shaman often will enter the body of their patient to find the spirit making the patient sick, and heal by removing the infectious spirit by the patient. However, many shamans have expert knowledge of the plant life in their area, and an herbal regimine is often perscribed as treatment. In many places, the shamans claim to learn from the plants directly, only being able to determine the effects of a plant and use it to heal after meeting the spirit of the plant and getting permission. In South America, individual spirits are called through singing icaros; to call the spirit, the spirit must teach you their song. The use of totem items such as rocks is common; these items are believed to have special powers and an animating spirit. Such practices are presumably very ancient; in circa 368 bc, Plato wrote in the Phaedrus that the "first prophecies were the words of an oak", and that everyone who lived at that time found it rewarding enough to "listen to an oak or a stone, so long as it was telling the truth". The belief in witchcraft and sorcery, known as brujeria in South America, is prevalent in many shamanic societies. Some societies distinguish shamans who cure from sorcerers who harm; others believe that all shamans have the power to both cure and kill; that is, shamans are in some societies also thought of as being capable of harm. The shaman usually enjoys great power and prestige in the community, renowned for their powers and knowledge; but they may also be suspected of harming others and thus feared. In engaging in this work the shaman exposes himself to significant personal risk, from the spirit world, from any enemy shamans, as well as from the means employed to alter his state of consciousness. Certain of the plant materials used can kill, and the out-of-body journey itself can lead to non-returning and physical death; spells of protection are common, and the use of more dangerous plants is usually very highly ritualized. Shamanic technology Generally, the shaman traverses the axis mundi and enters the spirit world by effecting a change of consciousness in himself, entering into an ecstatic trance, either autohypnotically or through the use of entheogens. The methods used are diverse, and often are used in conjunction with each other. Some of the methods for effecting such altered states of consciousness are: • • • • • •

Drumming Singing Fasting Sweat lodge Vision quests /or vigils, Dancing or Spinning Games

Power Plants • • • • • • •

Tobacco Fly Agaric Psychedelic Mushrooms Alluded to euphemistically as "holy children" by Mazatec shamans such as Maria Sabina Peyote San Pedro Named thus (St. Peter) by Andean natives because he's the guardian of Gates of Heaven Ayahuasca Quechua for "Vine of the Dead" Iboga

Shamans often observe special diets or fasts and taboos particular to their vocation. Sometimes these have physical purposes beyond effecting a change in brain state or taboo; for example, the diet followed by shamans and apprentices when drinking Ayahuasca includes eating foods rich in serotonin as well as avoiding foods rich in tyramine, which could cause a hypertensive crisis if ingested with an MAOI such as Ayahuasca. Gender and Sexuality Most shamans are men, but there are societies in which women may be shamans. In Old Norse Religion, shamanism was seen as un-manly and practiced mainly by women. However, in Old Norse mythology, the supreme god Odin was also seen as the foremost shaman. In some societies shamans exhibit a two-spirit identity, assuming the dress and attributes of the opposite sex from a young age, this may include a man taking on the role of a wife in an otherwise ordinary marriage; this practice is common, and found among the Chukchee, Sea Dyak, Patagonians, Aruacanians, Arapaho, Cheyenne, Navaho, Pawnee, Lakota, and Ute, as well as many other Native American tribes. Such two-spirit shamans are thought to be especially powerful. They are highly respected and sought out in their tribes, as they will bring high status to their mates. Shamanism and New Age The New Age movement imported some ideas from shamanism as well as Eastern religions. As in other such imports, the original users of these ideas frequently condemn New Age use as misunderstood and superficial. At the same time, there is an endeavor in occult and esoteric circles to re-invent shamanism in a modern form drawing from core shamanism, a set of beliefs and practices synthesized by Michael Harner and often revolving around the use of ritual drumming and dance; various indigenous forms of shamanism, often focusing on the ritual use of entheogens, as well as chaos magic. Much of this is focused upon in Europe, where ancient shamanic traditions was suppressed by the Christian church and where people compelled to be shamans often find it improper to use shamanic systems rooted in other parts of the earth. Various traditional shamans express respect for this endeavor and in this, separate it sharply from "light" New Age shamanism. Sometimes people from Western cultures claim to be shamans. This is considered offensive by many indigenous medicine men, who view these new age, western "shamans" as hucksters out for money or affirmation of self. Many shamanistic cultures feel there is a danger that their voices will be drowned out

by self-styled "shamans"; citing, for example, the fact that Lynn Andrews has sold more books than all Native American authors put together. Shamanism Wikipedia

Israel: Oldest Shaman Grave Found; Includes Foot, Animal Parts National Geographic - November 5, 2008

A 12,000-year-old burial site in Israel contains offerings that include 50 tortoise shells and a human foot, and appears to be one of the earliest known graves of a female shaman.

Peru: Hell and Back National Geographic - May 30, 2006

Deep in the Amazon jungle, writer Kira Salak tests ayahuasca, a shamanistic medicinal ritual, and finds a terrifying but enlightening world within.

Vision Quest

A vision quest is a rite of passage, similiar to an initiation, in some Native American cultures. It is a turning point in life taken before puberty to find oneself and the intended spiritual and life direction. When an older child is ready, he or she will go on a personal, spiritual quest alone in the wilderness, often in conjunction with a period of fasting. This usually lasts for a number of days while the child is tuned into the spirit world. Usually, a Guardian animal will come in a vision or dream, and the child's life direction will appear at some point. The child returns to the tribe, and once the child has grown, will pursue that direction in life.

After a vision quest, the child may apprentice an adult in the tribe of the shown direction (Medicine Man, boatmaker, etc). The vision quest may be a part of shamanism, more exactly, the learning and initiation process of the apprentice for achieving the ability for shamanizing, mostly under the guidance of an older shaman. A vision quest may include long walks in uninhabited, monotonous areas (tundra, inland, mountain); fasting; sleep deprivation; being closed in a small room (e.g. igloo). The technique may be similar to sensory deprivation to a rite of cleansing and purification. One objective is to commune with the other side. In traditional Lakota culture the Hanblecheyapi (vision quest, literally "crying for a vision") is one of seven main rites. Vision quest preparations involve a time of fasting, the guidance of a tribal Medicine Man and sometimes ingestion of natural entheogens; this quest is undertaken for the first time in the early teenage years. The quest itself is usually a journey alone into the wilderness seeking personal growth and spiritual guidance from the spirit, sometimes Wakan Tanka. Traditionally, the seeker finds a place that they feel is special, and sits in a 10 foot circle and brings nothing in from society with the exception of water. A normal Vision Quest usually lasts two to four days within this circle, in which time the seeker is forced to look into his soul. It is said that a strong urge to leave the quest area will come to the seeker and a feeling of insanity may set in. However, the seeker normally overcomes this by reminding him or herself of the overall outcome of the quest, causing the mind to stop wandering on random thoughts. The individual can generally find solace in the fact that he or she will not die in just two to four days. Some have claimed grand visions on their first Vision Quest while others have not. It is an individual experience and often subject to the emotional, spiritual, and physical make-up of the person. Native American totems are said to be capable of speaking through all things, including messages or instructions in the form of an animal or bird. Generally a physical representation of the vision or message such as a feather, fur or a rock is collected and placed in the seeker's medicine bag to ensure the power of the vision will stay with the individual to remind, protect or guide him. Since the beginning of this cycle of time, humanity has returned to nature to connect with spirit and to seek answers to problems of the physical realms, especially in this timeline when the messages of prophecy reveal themselves to the seeker. There is something about being alone in the wilderness that brings us closer and more aware of the 4 elements and our connection to a creational source. We go to seek truths and divine realization, just as many of the ancient prophets did in their time. In its own way, the vision quest is an Initiation not unlike the days of the ancient mystery school teachings where one learns about themselves and the mysteries of the universe are often revealed to them. It is a time of internal transformation and renewal. Who am I? Why am I here? Physical surroundings allow the soul to move into the grid or the collective unconsciousness. Though the Vision Quest is associated with Native Americans traditions - it is practiced all over the world. As an expression of the archetypical "Heroic Journey," the vision quest has been enacted in religious pilgrimages, mythological tales (including the story of the search for the Holy Grail), and our own daily pursuit of truth and purpose. Today, there are companies that sponsor these journeys. They provide a wilderness area in which it is to occur, and they give instructions and guidance before and after the event. It might take a day, a week, a month - whatever is necessary to complete the transformation and get the answer one seeks.

Preparation: - able to fast - able to camp out for long periods of time - knowledge of first aid - prepare sleeping equipment - or sleep on the ground. - knowledge of spiritual things like meditation - bring a spiritual instrument so you can play or chant - be comfortable with the solitude - if the weather permits you may wish to remove all clothing or cover yourself in a blanket - create a sacred stone circle on the ground in which the person sits - a journal to record your experiences Now you are ready to go out alone in nature to spend the time seeking greater truths through dreams, meditations or hallucinations. This transformational experience has been sometimes been done with the use of hallucinogens such as peyote, mescaline, and the South American Iawaska plant during sacred initiation rites. These plants were held as sacred teachers from the plant kingdom. The insights during the sacred space allowed the veils between this world and the next to be pulled back and for the individual voyager to

transcend himself and this dimension. You may, or may not, understand the messages received. It may take time for you to process affecting dreams, synchronicities and more in your life.

The benefits of a vision quest Curing emotional, physical, spiritual illnesses Discover your mission here Commune with nature, spirit, your spirit guides or deceased ancestors Move beyond outmoded paradigms Find truth, balance and peace

Vision Quest by Black Elk

A Vision Quest is an experience of deeper understanding of Nature and Spirit. It is a ceremony practiced by American Indians. To prepare for this "insight" one must first cleanse the body and mind by going through a Inipi or sweat lodge. Then with the help of a Holy Man is told certain things and must go to a spot, usually on a holy mountain, and stay 2 or 3 days During this time no food is eaten and one does not sleep but spends the time in deep prayer and observation. Many times, but not always, there is a vision. This vision is then shared with the Holy Man to help learn of its meaning. Sometimes the meaning is not shown for several years afterward. This is part of a vision quest I was told to share with all who may be interested. Once, I went to pray at the top of the sacred mountain of my ancestors. As I climbed to the top I heard voices singing as the wind blew the leaves. At the top I saw, made from many stones, a large circle with a cross inside. I knew from my teachings that this represented the circle of life and the four directions.

I sat down by the edge of this circle to pray. I thought this is only a symbol of the universe. "True," a very soft voice said. "Look and you will see the Center of the Universe. Look at every created thing." As I looked around I saw that every created thing had a thread of smoke or light going from it. The voice whispered, "This cord that every created thing has is what connects it to the Creator. Without this cord it would not exist." As I watched I saw that all these threads, coming from everything, went to the center of the circle where the four directions were one place (the center of the cross). I saw that all these threads were tied together or joined here at this spot. The voice spoke again, "This is the Center of the Universe. The place where all things join together and all things become one. The place where everything begins and ends. The place inside everything created." That's when I understood that all of creation, the seen and the unseen, was all related. The voice spoke one last time, "Yes, now you know the Center of the Universe." I pray to the four directions.....hear me. I pray to the West which gives us rest and reflection. I thank you for these gifts for without them we could not live. I pray to the North which gives us patience and purity. I thank you for these gifts for without them we could not live. I pray to the East which gives us energy and emotions. I thank you for these gifts for without them we could not live. I pray to the South which gives us discipline and direction. I thank you for these gifts for without them we could not live. Grandmother, share with me your wisdom, and I thank you for this gift. Grandfather, share with me your strength, and I thank you for this gift.

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, The courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.

The vision quest, like an initiation, has many purposes, the most important being, balance, clarity and focus from your higher mind, or spirits who join you during this rite of passage. Today we will do simple meditation to achieve some sort of connection with that which is attained in a vision quest over many days. This can be done prior to the actual vision quest. It is all about your readiness to accept changes and messages that align with your personal grid matrix during this experience that is the goal. You can do this in your home, outdoors, or anywhere that calls to your soul. As with a true vision quest, surrounding yourself in a circle of stones, crystals, shells, or candles, may add to the experience.

Vision Quest - A Meditation Envision yourself alone and relaxed in an open field of grass and trees.

Feel the sun's warmth and light bathing your body creating a feeling of peace and tranquility.

As you open up your senses the fragrances of natural surround you ... the grass and the flowers.

Listen to the sounds of nature, water rippling over stones, the birds and animals.

A Spirit comes forth to take you on a journey in which your spiritual mission will be shown.

This spirit may be human, or other, in form.

Go with the spirit on foot, by flight, or something else.

Take your time and return when a message is given.

Write down what you have experienced.

You may want to do further research to understand who you are why you are here and what you have to do.

Power Animals

Power animals most often come to us in dreams, meditations, initiations, and visions. You can have more than one power animal. Your power animal at a given time can change depending on your lifepath at that time. Power animals are often attracted by one's emotional needs of the person - viewed as protectors wh help overcome fears and empower us. The concept of a Power Animal is universal to all cultures. Tribal cultures will recognize a Totem for the tribe, one for the clan one belongs to, and one for the family that one is born into. In the United States, and in other countries, the Tribal and Clan Totem still exists, although it is thought of in a slightly different manner. There are also totems for our adopted cultures, such as clubs or societies which we may belong to, such as the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Loyal Order of Moose, and the Lions Club. Even Christianity, the prevalent religion of this country, has maintained two Totem animals, these being the Fish and the Lamb. Specialized Totems are also seen in organized sports, their names being reflected in the team names. Example: Chicago Bulls, Atlanta Falcons The next type of Power Animal or Totem is that which is personal for the individual. These Totems are protective spirits which help us in our everyday life. Everyone has such a Totem. Even today most parents give a special protective Power Animal to their children and tell the child that it will be protected over night by that Power Animal. They don't realize that is what they are doing when they give a teddy bear to their little one. We often unconsciously recognize the Power Animal affecting someone, and use terms which give away our unconscious recognition. Our heavens/zodiac include animal references (Leo -- Scorpio -- Cancer -- Taurus).

Totem or Power Animal in Shamanism The first item of business for a potential Shaman is to learn to travel in the other worlds, then to discover his Totem or Power Animal. That knowledge is necessary in order to start the long process of learning. Power Animals are usually a reflection of your deepest self and also represent qualities which you need in this world, but which are often hidden or obscured. A mistake that people often make is to be dissatisfied when they find that their Power Animal is some non-ferocious animal like a mouse. We tend to think that a mouse is not very powerful - that it is meek and afraid. What they forget is that spirits are not limited to physical reality and that size is irrelevant. Your Power Animal may be a tiny mouse, but in times of need this mouse can and will change its size and deportment to that which is appropriate to the occasion. There is nothing weak of meek about a 500-foot tall mouse! Your personal Power Animal (as opposed to your family, clan, or tribal spirit) may change several times in your lifetime, depending upon your specific needs. If you are dispirited, your animal is far away from you and needs to be brought back, or a replacement found.

When you make your first exploratory journey you are likely to encounter spirits which may represent themselves as being your Totem or Power Animal. If you are already aware of your spirit that spirit may greet you and give you additional power. All mammals and birds are positive spirits. Any positive spirit may be your Power Animal. Your Power Animal may also be a mythical animal, such as a unicorn or Pegasus, or even one which does not exist in myth or legend.

LESSON 1 - Meeting Your Power Animal We all have power animals - spirit animals - that are connected to us as protectors. Many power animals are our spirit guardians that exist in other realms. Some animals were with us from past lives but may have been another physical form. Example: We might have had a wolf or other wild animal as a friend or protector. In this timeline the animal incarnates as a dog.

Time to find your power animal. Find or quiet place or just relax at your computer. . . Relax your mind . . . Feel the muscles in your body relaxing . . . your head . . . your shoulders . . . your neck . . . your jaw . . . the torso of your body . . . your arms . . .

Close your eyes . . . Take 2 long slow deep breaths . . . breathing in through your nose . . . holding the breath as is comfortable for you . . . exhaling slowly through your mouth . . Still your thoughts. You are going to watch the screen just behind your eyes . . . You may see a pretty color . . . or shape . . . coming into view . . . Telepathically ask your power animal to show itself to you on the screen in your mind. Be patient! Your third eye (pineal gland) must open before you can see images. Soon the image of an animal will appear. It may - or may not - be the animal you are expecting - so have no expectations.

The image may come all at once or appear to move towards you. You may see the front view of the animal or see it at another angle. The animal may not be your favorite animal! Just allow the image to manifest before you! Once you see the animal - watch it carefully to see what it does. Listen with your thoughts to get a telepathic message from the animal. It may seem funny to get a message in a human language - from an animal - but it can happen. Your animal may appear in a scene that is significant for you. Focus as best you can . . . Note the colors around the animal - colors have significance. When the image fades . . . slowly open your eyes and write - or draw what you have seen. You may see more than one animal. You may see an animal that seems mythological vs. animals in our reality. You may find that another day brings a different animal with a different message. Things to consider: Have you ever dreamed about this type of animal? What happened in the dream? Ask the animal to come to you in tonight's dream time and interact with you. Why would such an animal appear to you? Perhaps you must seek the meaning of this animal.

LESSON 2 - Working with your Power Animal Prepare to meet your power animal - as you did in the first lesson.

You can try this while at your computer - or in a place you meditate. Out in nature might give the best results! Relax your mind and body. Now close you eyes and take two long deep breaths - breathing slowly in through your nose - holding the breath as is comfortable for you - and breathing out slowly through your mouth! Connect with your power animal as your third eye begins to open and shows you images . . . If you can see the animal in movement - follow the animal to see where it takes you and what messages it wishes you to learn. If you are having trouble following the animal - first visualize the animal - then see it moving away perhaps through time and space - perhaps on the Earth plane . . . Once you have connected with the animal - mentally tell the animal that you wish it to take you on a spirit journey so you can learn more about your soul journey at this time. It will take you on a journey . . . Make notes about your journey when you return.

LESSON 3 - Meditating with your Power Animal Shaman are spiritual beings with the ability to heal, work with Earth energies and 'see' visions. The ability to consciously move beyond the physical body is the particular specialty of the traditional shaman. These journeys of Soul may take the shaman into the nether realms, higher levels of existence or to parallel physical worlds or other regions of this world. Shamanic Flight, is in most instances, an experience not of an inner imaginary landscape, but is reported to be the shamans flight beyond the limitations of the physical body. Today you are going to become a Shaman - in the sense that you will connect with your power animal to heal and bring light to the planet. Please take your time . . . As you are now seated at a computer - begin by calling your power animal to you and establishing a connection. 'Tell' the animal you wish it to remain with you today so that you can connect at various times to experience.

If you can physically go into nature - or even make contact with a tree (indoors or outdoors) - this would enhance your experience. You may use music to enhance your experience. The use of any kind of mind altering drugs is your option - preferably not to be used today. Once you are ready - close your eyes. Take two long, slow breaths (inhaling through the nose and - exhaling slowly through the mouth). Feel totally relaxed. Disconnected from your physical environment. See yourself slowly shape-shifting from your physical form - to that of a Shaman Healer. (Shamans sometimes have the ability to shape shift). Experience your physical body - its age, skin color, 'make-up' you may have applied, your geographic location, your confidence to heal, your personal power returned, the secrets you possess from the ages Become one with that person - and experience. Slowly shape shift again - this time into your power animal. . . Feel each cell in your body changing . . . Go into nature - physically or telepathically! Move through nature as your power animal would. Listen to the sounds. Experience all of the sensations of nature - on a higher level. Listen to the animals communicating with each other. Sense portals that open to other realms. Observe how they open and close. You stop near a tree. Make a connection - physical or telepathic. Pull in the energy of the 'white light' from Source. Feel the 'white light' surging through all that you are - the power animal, the shaman, your physical expression. Allow yourself as a shaman/power animal - to see what needs to be healed today. Heal by illuminating what you 'see' in 'white light'.

As you heal with the 'white light' - send the energy out to the planet. Connect with the healing of the shaman energies of the indigenous people around the world. Allow the other shaman to show you how they heal. This may result in your initiation into higher realms of spirit and healing.

Hallucinogens

We are a race that relies more on more on drugs whether recreational or clinical. We like to get high to let go of fear and pain. Our drugs are pharmaceutical - natural - or created illegally. There are have always been drugs use. Humaity has always sought to get higher while in altered states of mind. It is here ne hopes to see the the truth and experience beyond the physical - which is generally limited and flawed. Though I have never done drugs in any form - I have met many people - and have read clients who have been addicted and just like to get high. In the realms of metaphysics and shamanism - I have met people who do drugs supposedly to heighten their awareness - or what term they use meanng the same thing. Individuals may use hallucinogens for the mind-altering effects, the visions, and feelings of well-being. They may also seek the approval of their peers, stress reduction, or rebellion against authority. Some may use hallucinogens to achieve so-called states of heightened mental awareness. Hallucinogens or psychedelics are mind-altering drugs which affect the mind's perceptions, causing bizarre, unpredictable behavior and severe, sensory disturbances that may place users at risk of serious injuries or death. The combination of hallucinogens with other substances, like alcohol or marijuana, can increase the chances of adverse effects and risk of overdose as well. Some hallucinogens can be found in plants. Mescaline comes from a cactus called peyote. And certain mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms, are hallucinogens. But many hallucinogens are chemicals that don't occur in nature. The effects of hallucinogens are widely unpredictable depending on the potency, dose, the user's mood, surroundings, and personality. The first effects may be felt within 30-90 minutes, and last 12 hours depending on the type and amount of drug taken. Individuals under the influence may have dilated pupils, increased heart rate and blood pressure, incoherent speech, sweating, loss of appetite, sleeplessness, dry mouth, and tremors. Users that combine drugs or overdose can go into convulsions, coma, or experience heart and lung failure. They may even die.

Hallucinogens have a profound effect on the mind by altering sensations and emotions. Users may feel several different emotions at once or experience dramatic mood swings. These drugs can cause sensory disturbances, such as delusions and hallucinations. They may also allow users to "hear" colors and "see" sounds. Users may even experience flashbacks up to a year thereafter, where they feel the drug's effects without taking more of the drug. Although most hallucinogens do not normally cause addiction, they do build tolerance quickly, requiring larger amounts of the drug to get "high." The risks of adverse reactions and overdose increase as users take larger amounts of the drug to get high. LSD (lysergic acid diethylamid) - acid - is a potent hallucinogen derived from lysergic acid and is a powerful semisynthetic psychedelic drug. Ecstasy is a hallucinogenic stimulant related to methamphetamine and Mescaline. Ectasty is a category of trance or trancelike states in which an individual transcends ordinary consciousness and as a result has a heightened capacity for exceptional thought or experience. PCP (phencyclidine), often called angel dust. The effects of hallucinogens are widely unpredictable depending on the potency, dose, the user¹s mood,surroundings, and personality. The first effects may be felt within 30-90 minutes, and last 12 hours depending on the type and amount of drug taken. Individuals under the influence may have dilated pupils, increased heart rate and blood pressure, incoherent speech, sweating, loss of appetite, sleeplessness, dry mouth, and tremors. Users that combine drugs or overdose can go into convulsions, coma, or experience heart and lung failure. They may even die. Hallucinogens have a profound effect on the mind by alteringsensations and emotions. Users may feel several different emotions at once or experience dramatic mood swings. These drugs can cause sensory disturbances, such as delusions and hallucinations. They may also allow users to "hear" colors and "see" sounds. Users may even experience flashbacks up to ayear thereafter, where they feel the drug*s effects withouttaking more of the drug. Although most hallucinogens do not normally cause addiction, they build tolerance quickly, requiring larger amounts of the drug to get "high." The risks of adverse reactions and overdose increase as users take larger amounts of a drug. PCP or Ketamine, on the other hand, may cause dependence, an intense craving for more of the drug.

Terrence McKenna

Researchers such as Terrence McKenna found that using hallucinogens helped increased their awareness of other realities. McKenna books include his theory on Time Wave Zero which was triggered by a 1971 shamanic-like experiment conducted by Terrence and his brother Dennis in the rainforest of the Columbian Amazon. Terence was told by alien voices (what he called 'Logos') that the I Ching was part of an ancient machine of time and a way to understand the future. Later using a transformation of the King Wen sequence of the I Ching hexagrams, Terence in collaboration with programmer Peter Meyer, developed a rigorous mathematical algorithm for the Time wave. This algorithm correlates time and history with the ebb an flow of experiential connectedness which McKenna finds intrinsic to the structure of the temporal universe. On the Winter Solstice December 21, 2012 the Time Wave reaches a Zero Point which will create a radical and complete transformation of our conceptions of the world. This date corresponds to the winter soltice of that year and is also the end of the current era in the Mayan calendar. From an astronomical point of view the sun will rise in a position that will eclipse the galactic center, which occurs every 26,000 years. Terence McKenna (November 16, 1946 - April 3, 2000) was a writer and philosopher. He was notable for his many speculations on subjects ranging from the Voynich Manuscript to the origins of the human species to Novelty Theory, which claims time to be a fractal wave of increasing novelty, which ends abruptly in 2012. McKenna's theory is related to the theory of the technological singularity, except that McKenna advocated what he called an Archaic Revival as the antidote to what he saw as the selfdestructive nature of unchecked, technological development. This concept appeared to involve a combination of hallucinogenic drugs, Gaianism, and shamanism.

Terrence McKenna

Timothy Leary

Dr. Timothy Leary was a guest on my television talk show, "The Metaphysical Experience" in 1990. Leary believed that these drugs can help lift you into a higher reality space to have better understanding of other realities. When I looked in his eyes, all I could see was a lost soul still searching. Shortly after that he became ill. He has since passed over. I do not chose to speak with him over there. Timothy Francis Leary (October 22, 1920 May 31, 1996) was an American writer, psychologist, campaigner for psychedelic drug research and use, 60s counterculture icon and computer software designer. He is most famous as a proponent of the therapeutic and spiritual benefits of LSD. During the 1960s, he coined and popularized the catch phrase "Turn on, tune in, drop out." Along with Dr. Leary, Dr. Ralph Minzer, and Dr. Richard Alpert explored these domains from a scientific perspective linking them with books like the Tibetan Book of the Dead.

Dr. Richard Alpert was born April 6, 1931. He later known as Baba Ram Dass Alpert was a professor of psychology at Harvard University who became well known for his controversial research program which studied the effects of LSD. He later converted to Hinduism and is currently one of the most prominent American Hindus. He was born to a prominent Jewish family in Boston, Massachusetts. Alpert worked closely with Dr. Timothy Leary at Harvard, where the two conducted many experiments on the effects of LSD. The pair was dismissed from the university in 1963 due to their controversial research on the Harvard Psilocybin Project. They relocated, and continued their experiments at a private mansion in New York. In 1967, Alpert traveled to India, where he became heavily involved in meditative practice and yoga. After meeting and becoming a devotee of Neem Karoli Baba, a Hindu guru in Uttar Pradesh, he changed his name to Ram Dass, meaning servant of God. Upon his return to the United States, Alpert founded several organizations dedicated to expanding spiritual awareness and promoting spiritual growth. In February 1997, he suffered a stroke which left him with expressive aphasia, but he continues to give lectures at a variety of places.

Carlos Castaneda

Carlos Castaneda was born in Peru on December 25, 1925 and died in Los Angeles on April 27, 1998. In the US, he wrote a controversial series of books that claimed to describe his training in traditional Native American Shamanism. Castaneda met the Yaqui shaman Don Juan Matus in 1960, which inspired the partly autobiographical works for which he is known. He inherited from this figure the position of nagual, or leader of a party of seers. Castaneda's works contain descriptions of paranormal experiences, several psychological techniques, Toltec magic rituals, shamanism and experiences with psychoactive drugs (e.g. peyote). Carlos Castaneda's works have sold more than 8 million copies in 17 languages.

Don Juan Teachings