The shaman were leaders, teachers and healers from indigenous cultures of ancient societies. Every continent had varying lineages of shaman, yet they were all very much alike. Anthropologists are now stating that shamanism may have dated as far back as 75,000 years.
As healers, the shaman work with energy and use wisdom from things like the elements, the directions, their ancestors, plants, animals, their higher power, and intuition. Some people, religions, and political groups who do not understand shamanism and try to demonize shamans. I see it as no different from the prophets and disciples of biblical times. In fact, many religious practices were derived from the shamans: lighting candles, using incense, praying, singing songs. These were all practices that originated with ancient shamans.
The shaman were self-leaders, believing their lives belonged to the people they served. They practiced self-reflection to examine and clean up their thoughts, judgements, and biases. Their practices strengthened and empowered them to be more effective and authentic leaders. They believed in out-of-the-box thinking and encouraged those they lead to do the same.
Why is shamanism relevant to business and leadership today?
Shamanism consciousness employs common sense and vulnerability to seek truth and love without judgement. I realize many believe that the workplace is no place for love. Yet, love is the highest form of energy that exists. So, why wouldn’t leaders want to incorporate love into the workplace?
The love that I am referring to is not love in the romantic sense, but it is the type of love that motivates people. It’s the love that drives business owners, artists, and teachers. It’s the love that drives compassion, honesty, trust, and integrity. It is love that builds positive energy in the workplace. This energy builds powerful and cohesive environments that nurture and support everyone. This allows the organization and its customers to succeed.
This is why shamanism is important and relevant today.