The Internet, television and other news sources are sounding the alarm by announcing new protocols for the treatment of diseases. These diseases range from Alzheimer’s, cancer, diabetes, MS to Parkinson’s. Within this cry is a close condemnation of pharmaceuticals and praise for other approaches. The intention here is not to list these approaches or specifically discuss them all. One among many requires attention.
There is a proliferation of healers and shamanic practitioners within the United States. Dozens of organizations offering counseling, membership, seminars, and certification abound. A bulging gold mine illuminates the horizon of potential healing candidates.
At this point, it is useful to define shamanism. There is no need to trace the etymological history of the word. Shamanism is not a cult nor is it a religion, although there is abundant evidence to suggest a belief in a divine power that circumnavigates the universe. Shamanism is an ancient form of healing. A shaman, despite some attempts to label them as priests, is simply a healer, that is, someone who knows remedies for certain physical problems.
One of several significant markers that distinguishes a shaman from a physician is the recognition that illness may not be just physical, but emotional. Treating the whole patient is a 40,000-year-old approach that is taking hold in the 21st century. Another difference between a shaman and a modern doctor is the division of reality into three realms: upper, middle, and lower. And that leads to a third difference: a shaman uses spirit guides when he treats a client.
The shaman has extensive knowledge of herbs; while the modern doctor has a depth in which drugs to use. Shaman is nature based and medic is probably man made chemical based. There is a strong movement to make more naturally based “drugs”, which from some quarters is commendable.
A fundamental issue arises from a cleverly dressed advertisement or testimonials extolling the wondrous wonder of shamanic healing. Whenever a practitioner proposes a “cure”, be very cautious. If you have pain in your side, a shaman may not know that it is appendicitis, indigestion, intestinal obstruction, or cancer. Accepting shamanic healing as an alternative to modern medicine is a serious mistake. And no punishment is intended.
The alternative leaves a bad taste. It implies that there is a better way and that may not be the case. Interrogative and supportive medicine suggests treatment along with current medical practices.