Shamanism - an alternative to modern medicine?

Shamanism - an alternative to modern medicine?

The Internet, television and other news sources are sounding the alarm and announcing new protocols for treating illness. These diseases range from Alzheimer's, cancer, diabetes, MS to Parkinson's. Within this reputation is the condemnation of pharmaceuticals and the praise of other approaches. The aim here is not to list these approaches or to discuss them all specifically. One of many requires attention.

There is an increase in shamanic healers and practitioners in the United States. Dozens of organizations offering advice, membership, seminars and certifications abound. A bulging gold mine illuminates the horizon of possible candidates for healing.

At this point it is helpful to define shamanism. There is no need to trace the etymological history of the word. Shamanism is neither a cult nor a religion, although there is a wealth of evidence pointing to belief in a divine force that orbits the universe. Shamanism is an ancient form of healing. A shaman, despite some attempts to call them a priest, is simply a healer, that is, one who knows remedies for certain physical problems.

One of several significant markers that distinguish a shaman from a doctor is the recognition that illness is not only physical but also emotional. Treating the whole patient is a 40,000-year-old approach that is gaining traction 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 treating a client.

The shaman has a wide knowledge of herbs; The modern doctor knows exactly which drugs to use. The shaman is based on nature and the doctor is most likely man-made on a chemical basis. There is a solid movement to produce more natural-based “drugs,” which is commendable in some quarters.

A fundamental problem arises from cleverly dressed advertising or testimonials extolling the miraculous miracle of shamanic healing. Whenever a practitioner suggests a “cure,” be very careful. If you have pain in your side, a shaman may not know it is appendicitis, indigestion, intestinal blockages, or cancer. Accepting shamanic healing as an alternative to modern medicine is a serious mistake. And no pun intended.

Alternative leaves a bad taste. This implies that there is a better way and this may not be the case. Supportive and interrogative medicine suggests treatment along with current medical practices.