Learning from the Chumash - the benefits of indigenous teaching and shamanic practice

This past month, I took a journey to a Chumash Village in Malibu, California, established by the Chumash Nation after the land was returned by the U.S. government several years ago. My good friends, Mati and Luisha Waiya with the Wishtoyo Foundation, sponsored this land with the help of Spirit, their mentors and elders, their own hands and hearts and their deep commitment to this land and to the Chumash people.  They rebuilt the village, paying close attention to the authenticity of the site and the sacred nature of the work. 

We spent several days there with them and our families telling stories around the fire and deepening the mentorship of Mati and of Luisha toward all of us.  We shared our hearts and our hopes for all indigenous people and looked at paths we can follow to help in our efforts toward the deepening spread of Shamanic practices and healing for all people throughout the world as this effort is intended for all peoples, worldwide, whether indigenous or other. 


During the week I spent there in the Chumash Village, I thought about how to articulate the tremendous benefit to the soul and spirit that shamanic practice has had on many of those who participate in it.  The simple answer to the benefits of shamanic practice and indigenous teaching is that it brings one to the center of the self, to the ember that is the force, and to alternative thinking, feeling being taken in through the body and spread from the self into the mind and heart.  Shamanic practice is a daily ritual that keeps one in the center of Spirit while honoring the four directions, the four elements, living a life of awareness and gratitude toward Father Sky and Mother Earth and the balance created by their union within the self and in the world at large.  

This practice asks for action in the world with others and with the earth and sky and air and water.  Animals and other beings are honored.  Life is lived in humility and grace with careful attention to integrity and respect.  Shamanic practice is intended to help others.  It is intended to give out toward what is needed outside the self.  The self is not hidden or harbored as a special secret but is shared as an energy to be given to those in need.  Shamanic practice respects and treasures family and tribe and clan and nation.  All growing and living things are treasured.  Life is considered a gift to be shared.  Gratitude is a state of being.


I have committed to work with Mati and Luisha in any way we need me to to bring honor and success to their endeavors.