Dance Therapy has its roots in the 1920s, and in particular with the American dancer and choreographer, Marion Chace. In addition to being a star performer, Chase also taught in schools and hospitals, and rapidly recognised the benefits of what is now known as Dance Therapy, as a means of expression to people with certain emotional and psychological needs. She recognised that the body's movements are an outward reflection of the state of the mind, and that rhythmically guiding a patient’s movements through dancing can bring about physical harmony together with emotional, spiritual and mental peace.
The basic Shamanic Healing practices are:
Energy Attunements - the energy field and the chakras are cleansed and balanced
Soul Retrievals - the shaman journeys beyond ordinary reality to retrieve a soul element that has fled because of trauma, fear or abuse
Extractions - intrusive energy forms - and in rare cases, entities - are removed from the energy field
Some Shamanic Healers also offer clairvoyant readings, protection, death rites and "despachos" - offerings. Most of these procedures take place in a sacred space and are rich in ceremony. Shamanic healing may be particularly useful for energy-related problems, weakened immune systems, chronic pain, depression, stress, pre and post-operative care and side effects of chemotherapy.
Several respected national organisations offer training and certification in Shamanic healing, including Michael Harner's The Foundation for Shamanic Studies in California, and Dr Alberto Villoldo's The Four Winds Society in Florida and California.
Back to Holistic Therapies Explained page.
