What the Hell is Shamanism Anyway? A Few Basics.

I've posted a few pics here from my shamanic workshop last weekend, and thought I'd share a few basics on what modern shamanism is all about.

The first photo at left is my favorite. Last Sunday our class went to a nearby state park for some activities. Our instruction focused on getting grounded with the earth, so what better place to go than a mountain, to observe nature and reconnect with our place in nature. Sunday was fairly clear and you can see two neighboring mountains in the distance.

Modern shamans are inspired by ancient, indigenous traditions, but we don't copy. We form our own path based on modern needs and situations. Do we drum by a fire, dance naked under the moon, go into trances and see visions? Maybe and maybe not.

But that isn't the point.

Here are a couple of contemporary shamanism basics. And if you're a shaman yourself and see some basics I've overlooked, feel free to share. I'm just beginning on my path.

What does shamanism contain, affirm, encompass?

• Sacred reciprocity and balance in living with other humans, with nature, with the Earth.

• An enhanced understanding of the harmony of mind-body-spirit.

• All space is sacred.

• Any rituals and ceremonies simply help manage our spiritual energy and life's changes.

• There are no rules, hierarchy or order--only passion, zeal and effectiveness.
  

• Everything is alive, aware and responsive, and we can establish a relationship with it.
  

There are more specific principles that I'll post later, but here's a parting thought on what modern shamans do and how they live from writer Tom Cowan, also known as Riverdrum:

"Immerse yourself in nature, observe the seasons, live consciously beneath the night sky, study the habits of birds and animals. Explore your dreams and take them seriously. Find places and ways to see and enter the Other, and remember what you do and find there. And when you have done these things, if there is time, read books."

This last photo is of me with my legs dangling over an outcrop, still wearing those favorite boots of mine.

Peace and blessings, ya'll.