Shaman in a 9 to 5 World - Softcover

In the modern world of traffic jams, cell phones and information highways, how can urban shamans create lifestyles that reflect their spiritual beliefs and visions? It's not easy, acknowledges author Patrica Telesco, who previously wrote about living close to the earth within a concrete jungle in Urban Pagan. Now she takes it a step further, presenting the tribal responsibility of the city shaman. Although most people think of shamanism being a form of magic, Telesco explains that mystical ceremonies are "a small part of the big picture. Shamanic living focuses first on self--on becoming all that you can be no what your life's circumstances or surroundings. Next, shamanism shifts your awareness toward the tribe of people you call family, and your importance in the units. On a much larger scale, shamanism also stresses the familial tribe of humankind and our need to play nicely in the sandbox together."

As a guide for shaman wannabes, this is multi-dimensional, manual-accessible, playful, rich in historical context, hands-on, practical and inspirational. All the necessary tools, meditations, totems, drumbeats, amulets and prayers are here. Telesco has the authority of pagan and magical reverence while being able to translate it into a language that is straightforward and socially responsible. --Gail Hudson