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Shamanism

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May 1, 2024 4 minute read

Shamanism is a spiritual practice that involves the interaction with the spirit world. Shamans are intermediaries between the physical and spiritual worlds, and they use their abilities to heal, divine the future, and perform other rituals. Shamanism is found in many cultures around the world, and it has been practiced for thousands of years.

History of Shamanism

The origins of shamanism are unknown, but it is believed to have developed independently in different cultures around the world. The earliest evidence of shamanism dates back to the Upper Paleolithic period, and it is thought that shamanism was a common practice among hunter-gatherer societies.

As societies became more complex, shamanism began to decline in some cultures. However, it continued to be practiced in many indigenous cultures, and it is still practiced today by many people around the world.

Shamanistic Practices

Shamanism is a diverse practice, and there is no one right way to practice it. However, there are some common elements that are found in most shamanistic traditions.

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Reading list

We've selected nine books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Shamanism.
Comprehensive overview of shamanism from a cross-cultural perspective. It is written by Barbara Tedlock, a renowned anthropologist and scholar of shamanism.
Comprehensive overview of the anthropology of shamanism. It is written by Michael Winkelman, a renowned anthropologist and scholar of shamanism.
Practical guide to shamanic journeying, including step-by-step instructions for performing shamanic rituals. It is written by Sandra Ingerman, a renowned shamanic teacher and author.
Explores the relationship between shamanism and the origins of religion. It is written by Mircea Eliade, a renowned historian of religion and mythologist.
Practical guide to shamanic journeying, a technique that allows shamans to enter the spirit world and communicate with spirits. It is written by Michael Harner, a renowned anthropologist and shamanic practitioner.
Provides a comprehensive overview of shamanism from a cross-cultural perspective. It is written by Sandra Ingerman, a renowned shamanic teacher and author.
Memoir of Farley Mowat's experiences living with a shaman in the Canadian Arctic. It provides a firsthand account of shamanic practices and beliefs.
Collection of stories about Mark J. Plotkin's experiences as a shaman's apprentice in the Amazon rainforest. It provides a glimpse into the day-to-day life of a shaman.
Personal account of John Matthews' experiences as a shamanic practitioner. It provides insights into the shamanic worldview and the role of shamans in society.
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