About Austin Shamanism

Shamanic techniques and practices have been used since prehistoric times for healing, teaching, guidance, and to affect the physical world with spiritual intervention. Some of the earliest rock art depicts figures displaying dramatic powers of flying, calling herds, and exuding what appears to be darts and balls of spirit.

We know that shamans have been practicing trance, through dance and spirit journeys, for at least 40,000 years. Through experience, they learn about the landscapes and topography of the spirit world. And their journeys are consistent enough that they can discuss them cross-culturally and communicate intelligently about what to look for in which locations in the spirit world.

The vast majority of shamanic cultures worldwide are primary level societies, not far removed from the land and their ancestors. Our contemporary culture, on the other hand, seems far removed from spirit. We have so completely removed ourselves from the "food chain" that we are effectively no longer part of the natural world. Surrounded by asphalt, concrete, glass, and steel, many of us have lost that primordial connection. But not all.

Contemporary shamanism offers the way to bring ancient practices into our current social context, and we have the opportunity to incorporate them directly into everyday life. People have been practicing contemporary (or core) shamanism for decades. Participating in the Austin Shamanism Group is one way you can find a supportive environment to learn and experience the power of shamanic practice in your own life.

This group is primarily experiential. While there will be dialog and discussion online and in our group meetings, as with all shamanic teaching, it is about experiencing practices rather than talking about them. The group organizer, Gerry Starnes (Falcon), has been actively practicing and teaching shamanic work since the late 1990s, with previous experience in traditional healing modalities and energy work. You are invited to visit his website www.ShamanicPassages.com for more information.