In a time
of transition, when prophecies of a new humanity are playing out, it is said
that the simple act of living a conscious life can support the transformation
of all humanity.
The call to
consciousness comes through a vast range of traditions and techniques, but one,
a visionary and mystical path, emerging from the mists of pre-history, speaks
to the longing for a more authentic life among modern, urban seekers. This is
Shamanism.
What am I doing here, an
ordinary, Western, city-raised woman, lying on a narrow ledge in the Blue
Mountains beside a collection of stones, feathers, candles and bowls of water
that I have arranged in a circle?
I am undertaking a ceremony of
transformation through one of the most ancient initiatory rituals known to
humans; a Vision Quest. The circle of objects is my Medicine Wheel, an
energetic portal through which I hope to travel in altered consciousness, to
call in & balance the energies of other worlds.
I am invoking the power of the
circle and of all the circles, spirals and curves of nature to help me enter
‘shamanic space,’ the place from which my soul expands towards ecstasy. Two
currawongs and a goanna watch as I call to Sprit to give me a vision of the
mystery that I both long for & fear.
A traditional tribal shaman
is a master of transformation who enters altered consciousness or trance states
to explore and interact with the worlds of souls, nature and Spirit. He or she
seeks wisdom, healing and empowerment for all. Although the word ‘shaman’ comes
from Siberia, similar practices are found among original peoples in North and
South America, many parts of Asia, Tibet, Australia, Africa and Northern and
Southern Europe. The shaman is a master of ecstatic states that give direct
connection to these worlds.
Traditionally, these shamans
were chosen by ‘the spirits’ for the difficult and demanding task of service to
their communities. Sometimes they endured a serious illness followed by a
remarkable healing. By their results shamans gained the recognition of their
people. Tribal peoples have always had ambivalent relationships with the shaman
who is essential to their wellbeing but also feared for his or her powers.
So, what is the relevance of
this ancient, esoteric practice to the modern world?
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