Books › The Way of the Shaman
The Way of the Shaman
248 pages
A grounded, practical bridge into the mystical realms of ancient healing and altered consciousness.
What it feels like
Reading this book feels like sitting by a fire with a wise, patient elder who is equally comfortable in a university lecture hall and a deep trance. The pace is steady and deliberate, guiding you step-by-step from the mundane world into the profound depths of the shamanic journey. It balances a grounded, academic tone with an atmosphere of deep reverence for ancient wisdom, creating a mood that is both mystical and highly practical. The prose is clear and accessible, stripping away esoteric jargon to offer a direct, experiential path to spiritual healing. It will deeply resonate with seekers, aspiring healers, and anyone yearning to reconnect with the earth and explore the hidden landscapes of their own consciousness.
- Mood
- mystical
- grounded
- introspective
- reverent
- Tone
- authoritative
- earnest
- instructive
- respectful
- experiential
- Pace
- steady
- Themes
- altered states of consciousness · spiritual healing · ancient wisdom in modern life · connection to nature · inner exploration
- The writing
- Clear, accessible, and grounded, blending academic rigor with the warmth of a personal guide.
- The arc
- Moves from academic curiosity to profound, hands-on spiritual awakening and empowerment.
- Who it's for
- Seekers, healers, and the spiritually curious looking for practical, grounded methods to explore altered states and ancient traditions.
Content notes
- descriptions of altered states
- references to indigenous spiritual practices
- animal imagery
About the book
This classic on shamanism pioneered the modern shamanic renaissance. It is the foremost resource and reference on shamanism. Now, with a new introduction and a guide to current resources, anthropologist Michael Harner provides the definitive handbook on practical shamanism – what it is, where it came from, how you can participate.
"Wonderful, fascinating... Harner really knows what he's talking about." CARLOS CASTANEDA
"An intimate and practical guide to the art of shamanic healing and the technology of the sacred. Michael Harner is not just an anthropologist who has studied shamanism; he is an authentic white shaman." STANILAV GROF, author of 'The Adventure Of Self Discovery'
"Harner has impeccable credentials, both as an academic and as a practising shaman. Without doubt (since the recent death of Mircea Eliade) the world's leading authority on shamanism." NEVILL DRURY, author of 'The Elements of Shamanism'
Michael Harner, Ph.D., has practised shamanism and shamanic healing for more than a quarter of a century. He is the founder and director of the Foundation for Shamanic Studies in Norwalk, Connecticut.
Description from Open Library.
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