Shamanic Journeys: altered states, indigenous perspective
Shamanic Journeys: altered states, indigenous perspective; Feb 4: 6:30 PM EST; Nanu Pagan (This is a one time live prerequisite class offered to take before further studies in shamanism at the school. Thereafter this class will be offered as a recording).
According to shamanic beliefs, our physical ordinary reality is not the only one — there is another ‘non-ordinary’ reality where our spirit dwells. Just as your body needs healing when you are sick, so does your spirit; just as a problem you’ve encountered needs you to take action in the ordinary world, so there is a need for action to be taken in non-ordinary reality. For thousands of years, shamans have journeyed into non-ordinary reality, seeking to help their kinsmen spirits in times of sickness and trouble.
Trance, traveling to different worlds and different “realities” and affecting material reality by spiritual action are some of the beliefs that define academic understanding of Shamanism. However, while we will find similarities, not all cultures will believe nor practice the same way. In this class we will discuss the academic use of the term “shaman”, we will cover some of the differences and similarities in beliefs and practices across cultures, and we will share some simple ways in which you can explore this possibility, further your own well-being and learn to "travel" and interact respectfully in the Spirit realm.