COURSE 38B
THE SHAMANIC PATH

Shamanism is the oldest spiritual path on planet Earth; it is a path of healing, of maintaining balance and harmony in society and the individual, and of keeping our connection with Mother Earth and all Creation.

However this week is not about making you a Shaman, but instead, to discover the Shamanic principles with your own spiritual nature. Therefore making the inner wisdom that is as much an aspect of the soul as it is the mind, accessible to our consciousness.

Shamanism is a spiritual way toward a mystery we cannot understand. Its roots date back as far as 40,000 years in Australia and 30,000 years in Siberia. Today we can find it in every part of the world, age, gender, cultural back ground does not prelude us from obtaining this knowledge. It is not a cure, technique or method. You cannot read about it, though you may read about others' experiences of it. Shamanism is not a religion; by its nature it is based in individual expression. Some people have found their healing on this way, and others have found a way to live.

It is a path of honour and integrity towards ourselves and all those whom we find ourselves in contact with. When we search for keys to open our spirituality we may sometimes become confused and misguided in our spiritual path. The path of service is one we give to ourselves as well as others. It is not a path based only on mediumship, but embraces all aspects of self development that make us a happier, healthier person.

During this week we will also look at the world of the Celtic Shaman which is a part of our British / European heritage. We will work with ceremony and spirituality to link with the energy of nature and the animal world. The Shaman was considered to be many things to the people or tribe, he/she was a communicator between the world of the living and the world of spirit, they were healers, teachers, philosophers and friend to all.

Creativity has always been connected to our soul expression; it is our intuitive, inspirational essence in motion. Symbolic images from the ancient world tell stories of the peoples and their way of life. Mandalas play a significant spiritual role in many tribal societies.

During the week we will look at: Many aspects of Shamanism including -

• The Shamanic self
• Ceremony and service
• Nature teachers
• Celtic Shamanism
• The Drum to Heal and Journey