The work of a shaman

The work of a shaman

In indigenous cultures, one does not claim the title shaman; it is awarded by others out of respect to the healing received.

by Joey M. Joseph — 

Shamans work with Earth’s energy; they recognize the life force in nature and understand the essence of the powers they possess. Their developed spiritual sight has trained them to seek answers in the invisible world that interconnects all living things. They draw upon the relationships they spend lifetimes cultivating. The circle of life is elemental in nature. Shamans serve as intermediaries and divinators for all living things. They consciously and purposefully have the ability to traverse all realms, acquiring the knowledge, information and ceremonies needed.

Shamans’ work inevitably unifies Heaven to Earth, creating a portal for newly accessible information. The secret to their spiritual connection is the partnerships they develop on all planes of existence. They possess an inherent sense of “seeing” what the naked eye does not, utilizing power consciously for healing purposes.

Traditionally, shamans traverse alternative realities to seek healing and have learned how to understand the language that spirit speaks — a communication based in metaphors and steeped in symbolism, a practiced art. Deciphering what symbols represent in relationship to living is a tool of empowerment. A symbol may be interpreted one way for me, yet another for you.

I hear the term shaman used often, as all beings are born with shamanic capabilities. In indigenous cultures, one does not claim the title shaman; it is awarded by others out of respect to the healing received. Shamans are often born out of their own suffering, as it is something that is birthed into existence.

To be part of the collective voice, one takes a chance on letting go of the idea of “separateness,” trusting the work we do is a tandem act, proving the qualities of a shaman. Shamans spend their lives giving voice and purpose to the partnership they developed, to bring healing to all living things and work in union with the Creator of all life.

Joey M. Joseph is a Shamanic Reiki and Karuna™ master teacher. joeymjoseph.com or 623-698-6899.

Reprinted from AzNetNews, Volume 34, Number 6, December 2015/January 2016.