Shamanism For "White" People

by Michael William Denney

Shamanism is a transcendent practice of dynamic spiritual balance. The shaman is an animist priests/priestess that acts as an intermediary between the spiritual and physical realms. Shamanism is the oldest spiritual practice on Earth. Every culture and ethnicity in the world can trace their origins to some form of animism (shamanism). Shamanism has become increasingly popular in recent decades. But there is a great deal of controversy over the increasing trend of people of European descent practicing shamanism. Many Native spiritual practitioners have accused "white" people of stealing their cultural and spiritual practices. New age charlatans and "plastic shamans" have muddied the waters making it difficult to know what is an authentic shamanic practice for the sincere "white seeker. So, can "white people" become shamans? What if we don't relate to Western materialism and organized religion? The European people practiced animism for over 50,000 years. If you are of European descent, then shamanism is in your blood, in your veins, in your DNA. In "Shamanism for 'White' People," author Michael William Denney explores the current controversies regarding neo-shamanism. In this book, you will learn about the ancient and profound animist (shamanic) practices of pre-Christian European tribes. Mr. Denney exposes the myths on both sides of this controversy. If you are a "white" person, animism (shamanism) is your spiritual birthright.

94 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 31, 2012

Reviews

[Tia · Rating 5 out of 5]

My head is still spinning

This book has change my practice, and in turn my life. I've been apart of the magickal community for several years now, and although the intention behind neo-shamanistic practices has called to me and felt "homey", something just felt off. Thanks to Mr. Denney, I know why. Thank you for reconnecting me with my Germanic roots like my late grandmother was trying to do for me when I was a child.

Bonus; the historical cultural and linguistic references appealed to my rather non-spiritually inclined husband, and he read the whole thing with me. It wound up resonating so much with him too, he's asking when the Heathen holidays are and how to honor the Old Ones.

Love love LOVE this book and author!

[Indigo Crow · Rating 3 out of 5]

If this were meant to be an introducing to this subject, I might have a less harsh opinion of its length. However, it never seems to say that anywhere, and so I'm left feeling really unfulfilled. The book is well written and the author does seem very knowledgeable, but it's so SHORT! I would have loved if he had gotten more in-depth with this. But overall it feels almost like he was in a hurry. That disappointed me and I hope it isn't typical of his work because I'm very interested in his other books after having read this one.

The message, however, is an extremely good one. I feel like this is an important subject for those of us seeking this type of spirituality. And while the title might seem shocking or insensitive, it really IS meant to get attention so that real issues can get discussed. This book is not racist and the author seems genuinely sincere. He only wants the best for everyone.

[Misty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect for my personal spiritual reconstruction

Was led to this book by a close friend, and it literally changed my mind and my soul. I adore Denny's writing style and unapologetic presentation of the truth. A must read!

[Riobhcah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an excellent discussion of the reasons for the soulless destruction of nature in western society...We have lost touch with our roots, an animistic culture that existed before the Roman Empire, before Christianity became what it wasn't meant to be at the hands of the power-hungry, that revered the earth rather than abusing her. If those of northern European ancestry could reconnect with this animistic attitude, after 1000 years or so of being brainwashed by those in power who misused Christian Gnosticism to create a culture of hostility toward nature, then we might just be able to heal the earth and heal our own souls/spirits/selves (whatever word you prefer). We have been disconnected from the earth and it's imperative that we to heal ourselves and the earth.

And as for the title, the author himself states that it may seem inflammatory, but maybe that is what is needed to attract the attention of those so deeply indoctrinated into our culture of rampant destructive materialism. This author is definitely not racist. I have read several of his books and he abhors racism. Rather...It is a call for those of Northern European and Germanic ancestry to return to their roots and traditions and to respect the ancient traditions of others. Why can't we all just reconnect with our ancestors' roots, practice them, and all just learn to get along and make a beginning on the path to healing? It must be done before it is too late for us and for the earth. As an Asatruar, I have heard our ancestors calling and saying that the time grows short. As the song states: "Let us not talk falsely now, the hour is getting late!" May we all hear the call and begin speaking our truth.