Shamanism

Hey there everyone! I was interested in learning more about shamanism and wanted to see if anyone had any good suggestions? I have read "Psychedelic Shamanism", but that didn't really touch on it. Or atleast I didn't think so lol. I have watched a few movies on shamans that use the ayhuasca tea for healing. I also tried doing a google shearch, but there was a lot of places I had to pay to learn. So that has been the extent of my research.

Chicago Jedi Angelus/Gabriel Calderon happens to be a trained shaman. If you'd like for me to get you two in contact shoot me a PM with your facebook page and I'll direct you two to talk.

Yes, he and Mark Anjuu both are. I've let Mark know about your request

Hi, Dave

I was a practicing shaman for 8 years. There are many forms of shamanism, most of which bear little resemblance to ancient traditions. I personally don't think that's a bad thing, but some do.

Here are some books that I think might be decent places to start. Even if you don't agree with everything that's written in them (I don't), they may give you ideas on new directions you might want to look or other types of shamanism that might appeal to you.

The World of Shamanism by Roger Walsh
Shamanism from a psychiatrist's perspective. A little dry, but probably a good starting point. It discusses what shamanism is (in the past and present), what shamans do, and how they do it.

The Way of the Shaman by Michael Harner
Some people love this book, some hate it, but it's still a good resource for information on core shamanism.

The Archaic Revival by Terence McKenna
This one might seem a bit out there if you're not familiar with Terence's mind-altering ideas, but it's a fun book. Basically a collection of interviews.

Urban Shaman by Serge Kahili King
This is actually about Hawaiian shamanism and Huna, but contains some great techniques and helpful general info.

Secrets of Shamanism by Jose & Lena Stevens
I almost hesitated to suggest this one because it has a decidedly New Age bend, but it was the first book on shamanism I ever picked up and I have effectively used (and continue to use) many of the authors' techniques.

I'm sure there are many others that I can't think of at the moment, but hopefully those will offer you something of value.

Awesome guys, thank you so much! This will give me a lot of info to digest and people to ask questions

In addition to the other suggestions, it depends what form of shamanism you're interested in (as Arcade mentioned, there are many!!). These are all good books too:

Spirit in the City - Ross Heaven
By Oak, Ash and Thorn - D J Conway
The Serpent and the Circle - Namua Rahesha
Where Eagles Fly - Kenneth Meadows

Wolf Moondance also wrote an interesting selection of Native American based works.

Of course, you can also post any questions in this forum or in the Pagan section here: http://www.templeofthejediorder.org/forum/Pagan-studies

It's always good to discuss things!

I ordered a book a few months ago actually on Shamanism and its called The Shaman. It goes over their beliefs and histories from every culture. its a good read less than ten bucks

GrandMaster Mark and I discussed this briefly and agreed that Sandra Ingerman's works might also be a good place to look for information and inspiration. Her books on soul retrieval, journeying, and healing toxic thoughts are all well worth checking out.

Awesome awesome! Do you know if the library would happen to have these or if they are available online? That would be helpful, I am a little poor at the moment but who isnt lol, but not a big deal. Thanks again

The Denver Public Library has books by all of the authors except for Namua Rahesha, Kenneth Meadows, and Jose & Lena Stevens. The books mentioned by Serge King and DJ Conway aren't available there, but other titles by them are.

If you don't live near the Denver Library perhaps they could transfer books to your branch? I guess that depends on how your library system is set up.

You might also check out the Denver Theosophical Society. Such societies usually have lending libraries that contain books on all sorts of spiritual topics, often including shamanism.

The Denver Theosophical Society's website says it's free for non-members to borrow books, but you would have to speak with them to see if they have any of the books you're looking for.

There is a Metaphysical Library near Seattle that has many of the books listed. Maybe there's something like that somewhere in Colorado too?

I didnt really even think the local library would have this kind of stuff, good call! I requested three books, should be at the library starting tomorrow. Thank you so much for your help. I'll get back to you when I have more questions lol.

Is it possible to create some sort of lesson plan or give us some starting direction? I would like to see these alternative programs become a new Forum area within the TOTJO website.

Reiki, Shamanism, and other therapies would make a excellent part of the study program for physical and mental healing just as becoming a clergy member is for spiritual healing.

MtnDave303 wrote: Hey there everyone! I was interested in learning more about shamanism and wanted to see if anyone had any good suggestions? I have read "Psychedelic Shamanism", but that didn't really touch on it. Or atleast I didn't think so lol. I have watched a few movies on shamans that use the ayhuasca tea for healing. I also tried doing a google shearch, but there was a lot of places I had to pay to learn. So that has been the extent of my research.

There are many resources out there. Can't think of any specifics. Personally, I've found that the best way to learn about this sort of thing is through first-hand knowledge. Meditation and such and possibly the use of entheogens like ayahuasca (though that's hard to find outside South America unless its anahuasca)or shrooms can help for sure. Start simple and small to judge your reaction though. Good luck!