Slow is fast
One of the best things about being a shamanic practitioner is witnessing the growth of clients and students. When I ask what positive shifts they’ve seen since the last session, their response may be “not much.” When they start to share, it’s clear the seemingly little changes are pointing to something much greater such as a newfound sense of peace and openness, clarity around a vexing issue, or a change in perspective leading to a deep transformation. I love mirroring for clients because the changes may not be in their awareness yet. Through...
Core soul needs
Several months ago, I was weepy and emotional, doing some deep catharsis. I did my best to be present with the pain so it would move through rather than lingering. My soul began whispering in its quiet voice that a hug would help me put my pieces back together. Human contact and connection are known as “core needs of the soul.” Every soul desires these energies – and in fact needs them to survive and flourish. There are many core needs of the soul. Other examples are empowerment, respect, confidence, balance, and rest and relaxation. (In her...
The impermanence of nature and life
Today was a crisp, sunny fall day. The change of seasons was evident in the brisk breeze and the rustle of leaves underneath my feet. As I walked in nature, I meditated on impermanence, something that’s been on my mind lately as I go through transitions in my life. I have been walking regularly at Steinke Basin for fifteen years. Even this place that is written on my soul has undergone change. Areas that used to be clear meadow are now filled with young trees and taller brush, providing a home for different species of birds, animals, and...
Small animal encounters
Once at Steinke Basin I did a double-take. On the path ahead of me was a small brown creature that looked like a lobster. The sight was so unexpected that it flustered me. I had just started my walk, and I was on the gravel road the emergency vehicles use to get to the top of the bluffs when there’s been a hiking accident. The first part of the gravel road has a low marshy area on both sides. It’s easy to forget there’s water because it’s mostly obscured by vegetation. On this particular day, I was in the right place at the right time to see...
Meeting spirit guides
Twenty years ago when I first stepped out onto my path, I desperately wanted to meet my spirit guides. I was alert and eagerly awaited signs of their presence. I looked forward to having immediate connection upon introduction. It did not work that way for me, at least not initially. One day during a meditation, I sensed a protective, loving energy nearby. I understood this might be one of my helping spirits but was frustrated when they didn’t materialize in front of me. Weeks went by, and I got a sense that the loving presence was male. Weeks...
The benefits of ancestral healing
When we honor our ancestors in sacred space, we learn from their wisdom and hear their stories. We also gain awareness around the origins of the dysfunctional patterns and how that pain has impacted our lineage. This insight brings understanding and compassion. As we offer ourselves as a channel of transformation for our family, the ancestors open to receive the support and healing they wanted but never got during their lifetime. It is empowering to feel the heavy energy lifting out of our body. As we experience the ancestors shifting into a...