IN THIS ISSUE: What is Shamanism Inspirational Thoughts Interesting Links Season's Special

Welcome to the first issue!  I have wanted to publish my own newsletter for some time, and at last here it is!  In this and future issues, I will do my best to provide short, insightful articles on shamanism, self-healing techniques and ceremony for every day life.  I will also include inspiring quotes and a few web links to visit, and even the occasional book review.  I'll also let you know about upcoming workshops and other events of interest.

So what is shamanism? To me shamanism is a practical spirituality that can be incorporated into anyone's life regardless of religion, age, gender or race.  It reconnects us consciously to the Earth, the sun, moon and stars, to each other, our communities, to the rocks on the beach, the plants and trees and the animals that are our companions and those who provide us with food.  It reminds us that all is sacred and alive and that everything is part of a greater whole. 

In the shamanic view, everything has "spirit" and comes from the same source.  The plants and animals that we eat give their lives for us so that we may be nourished.  Our homes, our clothing, and all that we have has in one way or another been gifted to us by the Earth, the plants, animals and other humans because their energies have gone into providing these items for us.  In shamanism, it is important to remember to take nothing that is given for granted so that the the delicate balance of the universe, our world is maintained.  This is done by giving thanks and through reciprocity.

A simple ceremony for remembering our interconnectedness is to say thank you (pray) before eating a meal for all who helped bring food to your table.  Before I eat a meal, I usually say a prayer like this: 

"Great Spirit, thank you for providing me with this meal.  Thank you for all who have made it possible for me to be nourished today.  Thank you for all the animals, plants, and human beings who have brought this meal to my table.  Thank you for the Earth, sun, moon and stars, and for all that is." 

All these energies collectively nourish us when we eat.  When we consciously remember, acknowledge and thank the source of our food, we remember our interconnectedness.  This is the shamanic way of seeing: all truly is one.  Our lives really do depend on each other. This way of seeing changes us from takers to caretakers of our world, which is how we reciprocate for being nourished and nurtured. 

Reciprocity is active thanksgiving.  Ultimately, reciprocity is the energy of love actively expressed and given to the Earth, the animals and plants and to our fellow human beings in return for all that we receive.  How do we reciprocate? I believe each of us has within us loving gifts, that when expressed in our own unique and special way become simple acts of service and reciprocity: a kind word, a caring touch, heartfelt laughter,  respect for the Earth. It's really very simple. 

"Remember always that you not only have the right to be an individual, you have an obligation to be one." Eleanor Roosevelt

"When we feel love and kindness towards others, it not only makes others feel loved and cared for, but it helps us also to develop inner happiness and peace. And there are ways in which we can consciously work to develop feelings of love and kindness. For some of us, the most effective way to do so is through religious practice. For others it may be non-religious practices. What is important is that we each make a sincere effort to take our responsibility for each other and for the natural environment we live in seriously."  His Holiness the Dalai Lama

The World Peace Prayer Society
Native American Prayers and Blessings

Many more sites can be found here on my Links page.

Healing Sessions Details: Sessions take place in loving, sacred space and last about 1 1/2 hours.  The focus is always on the healing needs of the individual in the present moment.  We address what needs to be released and cleared, and what energy needs to return in order to bring back balance and harmony and peace.  Sessions help to provide powerful healing, profound insight and deep relaxation.  Please note that sessions are strictly confidential.  Click here for more information about sessions.

What Some of My Clients Have Said:

• "This healing session was excellent!"
• "I can feel that something really deep and powerful has taken place."
• "Thank you! I feel like myself again."