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Shamanism and The Problem of Consciousness

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Shamanism is an ancient magical ecstasy and religious practice that can be found in different parts of the world. Although paraphernalia and rituals may differ at different stages of development and from one place to another, shamanism is considered one of the oldest religious experiences. This practice is predominant in the religious system, especially among the people of Ural-Atlaic and Siberia. It has also played an important role in the cultures of North America.

 

The traditional shaman can be a woman or man and they serve as priest, healers, or guide for the departed souls. The spiritual knowledge reveals that many diseases can be caused just because of the presence of evil. Therefore, shamans take the responsibility to restore and intercede the equilibrium in the patient’s health and well-being. If we go deeper into the concept, the word dis-ease basically means to be ill at ease. Whenever a certain kind of disease is present in the human body, it is mainly because of the imbalance between the equilibrium state of the body and the mind. This state can further cause pains and troubles to the patient. The shamans try to enter the mystical trance so that they can travel to the world of spirits to find out the lost soul of the specific patient. The main purpose of these practices is to bring the mind and body again into a state of equilibrium.

 

Shamans & Shamanism can use different kinds of paraphernalia; for example, sacred prayer arrows and other powerful magical objects. For instance, in Mexico, the traditional sweat bath is still being used as a curative and ritualistic means of freeing up the spirit and mind from the body. In this temescal practice, participants also avail experience similar to the shaman by chanting and praying within the sweat lodge. Shamanism leaves a considerable impact on the consciousness of the human brain.

 

While performing these practices, the shaman receives various instructions from the world of spirits and it may happen through visions, dreams, and trances. Certain drugs like peyote can also be used to ensure desired results for the disease treatment. Many unique classes of shamans and healers are still being practiced in many parts of the world. Healers use a wide range of herbal remedies, sometimes with or without the famous magical accouterments. Witches and wizards may play important role in these healing practices and it may work either with black or white magic. The shaman priests are trained to heal a variety of diseases through sacred prayers.

 

Neuroscience is the study of the typical relationship between brain and mind. Using modern age brain imaging techniques, the scientists map out different areas of the brain that play important role in leading subjective experiences such as love, sadness, and joy. Shamanism practices are also based on creating a balance between body and mind. They have the power to heal a variety of diseases with spiritual practices and sacred practices. The shamans have huge experience to lead potential results in this field. It also helps to control the conscious and physical functions of the brain.