Portrait of a Shaman

The word Shaman originates from the language of the Tungus people of Siberia, translated literally to "one who works with fire". Shaman, a title given to the highest and most respected individuals, is a warrior, a healer, an explorer, a teacher, an artist and a leader. They can walk beyond the realm of logic that transcends space and time. The Native American translation for Shamanism is Medicine Man. A medicine man is a traditional healer or spiritual leader with a purpose to secure help from the spirit world. A Native medicine man or woman promotes the harmony between human and nature by bridging the natural and spiritual world. Shamanism incorporates a broader meaning to the practices performed by Native American medicine men or shamans, as it is connected to similar ancient philosophical practices human cultures have performed throughout history. What is your relationship with the natural and spiritual world?