healing as being

Being back in this class with Sandra Ingerman is a much anticipated return home. Being amidst our community, our circle, and our work is a welcome homecoming. 

starting 2024 with the best intentions

I was first introduced to shamanic work back in 1985 when the Foundation for Shamanic Studies created by Michael Harner was still called something else and not known to many. 

I experienced my first few journeys and eventually learned how to journey for myself as well as others. Then there was a few years of apprenticeship with my teacher before I started monthly shamanic circles for our different communities in the Philippines and the United States. 

I am eternally grateful to Sandra for her workshops through the years that have sustained and supported me in my personal path and practice. Shamanism is a way of life that feeds Spirit through direct revelation. Keeping the vessel cleansed and clear as best as possible is key to this ever evolving process. 

wisdom & ignorance

The Buddhist scholar monk Bhikkhu Bodhi explains that ignorance is not just an absence of knowledge - “It is an insidious and volatile mental factor incessantly at work inserting itself into every compartment of our inner life. It distorts cognition, dominates volition, and determines the entire tone of our existence.”

Whereas ignorance obscures the true nature of things, wisdom removes the veils of distortion - enabling us to witness a situation in its essential mode of being - through our direct perception and not clouded over by filters and bias. 

burned out utility pole - photo © Igor Podgorny

Training in wisdom is rooted in the development of insight (vipassana-bhavana) - a deep and comprehensive seeing into the nature of existence which fathoms the truth of our being - from our own experience. 

21 days to a new you

Research states that it takes about 21 days to develop a habit. What follows is a list of new habits you could develop into your daily life. Start by picking your favorite one and see how that encourages you on to the next one.

1. Read for at least 15 minutes daily from a positive or inspirational book.

2. Listen for at least 15 minutes daily to a positive or inspirational CD.

3. Write in a journal for at least 15 minutes daily, noting what you have done to progress toward your goal and what you need to do in the days ahead.

4. Meditate for at least 15 minutes daily. Meditation is the art of doing nothing. Close your eyes and let go. When thoughts creep in your mind, simply acknowledge them and quickly let them pass.

5. Eliminate negatives from your day. As soon as a negative thought or word creeps in, acknowledge it and let it pass. Replace it quickly with a positive thought or word.

6. Be in good company. Hang around those who are where you want to be in life. Surround yourself with positive, goal-oriented people.
Learn from your experience each day, whether you are having a good day or not. Stay in the game no matter how challenging the next 21 days turn out. Success belongs to those who do not quit.

If you experience a setback, pause and take a deep breath. Start again. If you are struggling, keep pressing on. Every experience is an opportunity to learn more about yourself – get excited and remain eager!

Excerpted from Preston Pratt Jr. and his blog, theunstucklife.com - an inspirational and practical roadmap to a happier, more peaceful and fulfilling life with greater possibilities.