Calling on the Allies: Introducing Shamanic Healings
Many years ago, I was asked to teach yoga in Mexico. My first thought was Mexico, Maine, which would have entailed a long, icy commute. When I learned the classes were in Puerto Morelos on the Yucatan peninsula, I leapt at the opportunity.Â
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After morning yoga, we had lots of time to explore. I walked the ruins of Tulum and felt my clenched muscles relax in the earth’s warm embrace. I was so moved by nature’s transformative power that I wrote a song about it. (Click on the photo to watch the music video).Â
Since then, I have sought a more conscious relationship with the world around me. To that end, I have studied and travelled with Jose and Lena Stevens, and their daughter, Anna Stevens Harrington at The Power Path School of Shamanism in Santa Fe. They have devoted their lives to learning and helping to preserve indigenous peoples’ traditions. Here’s a link to their website, the Center for Shamanic Education and Exchange: http://www.shamaniceducation.org/
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While proponents of major religions wage wars to prove they have the one and only way to salvation, I am grateful that these indigenous ways are still with us, and that I have had the opportunity to learn from their gentle, skillful adherents. Â
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Shamans are trained to have a foot in the material world and a foot in the spirit world. I have learned through experience that something as delicate as a feather remains infused with the power of the bird who wore it.Â
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Shamans speak to nature as a child might, talking with trees and animals and drawing strength from the environment. Shamanic healings use a variety of natural tools including stones and feathers to invoke the forces of nature on our behalf. A session may include song, and some hands-on work as well.
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Each time I use shamanic methods, I reinforce my wonder at the latent wisdom and support all around us. We are never alone. Come schedule a shamanic healing session and remember. They are available in person, by phone, or Skype.