Druidry and Shamanism

Working with animal powers is a central feature of shamanism, and we can find many shamanic elements woven into the philosophy and practice of Druidry. Michael Harner, a world authority on shamanism, speaks of the shamanic way as one which is best defined as a method to open a door and enter a different reality. Much Druid ceremony and meditation has as its goal journeying into other realities, and the word ‘Druid’ is related to words meaning both ‘oak’ and ‘door’ – with the symbol of the door or gateway being central in Druidic teaching. Joseph Campbell, the great mythographer, has shown that there are a number of key features which distinguish a shaman’s art. These include: ritual dance, the possession of a wand or staff, ecstatic trance, the wearing of animal costume, identification with a bird, stag, or bull, becoming master of game animals and initiations, and the control of a magical animal or familiar. Traces of possible ritual dances exist in the old folk dances, and there are numerous references to Druid wands and staffs and ecstatic or altered states in the literature of Druidry.

*Fluorite*

*Important balancer, healer.
*Opens Heart (esp. green) Throat & Brow for clarity, overview, seeing additional truths/realities.
*Spleen, bones, teeth, lungs, detox, anxiety, insomnia.
*BLUE: Throat, nose, ears, soothing.
*Karmic impasses resolved, atonement relieved.

*Covellite *

*Energizer, brings freshness to life as it stimulates the inner spirit to seek new heights and enjoy the moment.
*Aids in re-birthing experiences.
*Helps maintain a positive outlook.
*Can assist in turning conscious dreams into realities.
*Said to stimulate the third eye and initiate psychic abilities, and to allow one to move easily into a state of deep meditation.