The Dreaming Path: Indigenous Thinking to Change Your Life

by Paul Callaghan

Tired of going around in circles?
The Dreaming Path ensures our life journey is one of fulfilment. The path has always been there, but in the modern world it can be hard to find. There are so many demands on us – family, health, bills, a mortgage, a career – that it can be hard to remember what's most you.
It's time to reconnect with your story and make it the best story possible.
Through conversations, exercises, Dreamtime stories and key messages, Paul Callaghan and Uncle Paul Gordon will share knowledge that reveals the power of Aboriginal spirituality as a profound source of contentment and wellbeing for anyone willing to listen. This ancient wisdom is just as relevant today as it ever was.
Themed chapters that bring together Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal worldviews invite you to reflect
– Caring for our place and the importance of story
– Relationships, sharing and unity
– Love, gratitude and humility
– Learning and living your truth
– Inspiration and resilience
– Being present and healing from the past
– Contentment
– Leading
The tools provided in this book will give you tips, practices, inspiration and motivation that can enable you to achieve a state of mind, body and spirit wellness you didn't think possible.
Are you ready to connect with the Dreaming Path – to heal, renew and live a good story? It all starts with the first step.

Genres: Nonfiction, Indigenous, Self Help, Personal Development, Audiobook, Australia, Philosophy

263 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 1, 2022

About the author

Paul Callaghan is a First Nations custodian in the land now called Australia. Paul belongs to the land of the Worimi people which is located on the east coast of Australia about 2 hours north of Sydney, New South Wales. He is an Aboriginal story teller and dancer. Paul has held a number of senior executive positions in his career and has qualifications in a diverse range of disciplines including surveying, drafting, accounting, economics, training, executive leadership, emotional intelligence, company boards, and executive/organisational coaching.
Paul’s passion however has always been around healing individuals, communities and the Earth our Mother. His corporate roles have always incorporated this passion.
Paul has been ‘going bush’ for many, many years and learning traditional ‘Lore’ from his Elders much of which he is willing to share with those who respect it.
Paul also ran a very successful spiritual/energy healing practice for many years with a wide variety of clients and illnesses.
The underpinning foundation of the book is his journey through depression and the role Aboriginal culture, spirituality and philosophy had in not only enabling him to recover, but also empowering him to live life by his truth rather than everybody else’s expectations. The book has a number of exercises and models based on his experience aimed at assisting people from all walks of life to build the courage and skills to live a life of purpose, choice and wellbeing. You will find it is a combination of styles including textbook, self help, Aboriginal history, Aboriginal philosophy, Aboriginal spirituality and an autobiography of his journey through depression.

Reviews

[Yvette Le Blowitz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading this book, as I learnt so much about our rich Aboriginal Culture that wasn’t taught at school, nor ever shared in the media or even through the politicians.

If you are interested in learning more about spirituality and how to connect to Mother Earth, and to feel more connected with our environment you will love this book.

It was so wonderful to learn about the positive values of the aboriginal culture, and about how they have practiced mindfulness and being present which dates back to 60,000 years ago.

I really loved how the Author Paul Callaghan opened up about his own mental health struggles to help other people.

I really felt that especially as a male this is no easy thing opening up in such a way, but I feel so deeply confident by him sharing his story and practical self-care tips that it’s going to help a lot of people.

I loved the dream time stories included these were all incredible to read.

I loved how Paul Callaghan co-authored this book with Uncle Paul Gordon and together they share some really core messages, values, insights, words of wisdom, tips, personal stories, ideas that can now help everyone globally especially when we are still in the mix of a global pandemic, wars, and a climate change crisis that needs action now.

If we can heal firstly we have the potential to help others, the greatest message from this book, is there is no competition in spirituality.

This book provides great practical self-care tips to try for yourself, how to tips which I loved.

It’s a really empowering book, for anyone feeling like they don’t belong, or going through a really difficult time, you will learn that you can get through anything and you can heal, and you do belong, you matter and so does your story.

If you want to feel spiritually connected, at one with yourself, Mother Earth and everything that surrounds you it’s definitely a must read.

I really loved it. I think universally every person needs to read this book especially if you want to take a forward leap in learning about how important loving Mother Earth is and our environment and everything living on Mother Earth is.

Disclaimer: To note I am the podcast host of Feel Good From Within with Yvette Le Blowitz - #spaitgirl podcast

I bought this book myself as I discovered it on the Aussie Book Shelves at Big W Australia, throughout the pandemic I had read so many different self-help books, I had interviewed so many self-help authors for my podcast show which shared a very consistent message about the importance of spending time in nature for our mental health.

But I was personally wanting to pick up a book that included our ancient aboriginal wisdom from my own country and ancient culture.

As I could see so many other countries sharing their ancient wisdom in book form so it could be accessible for anyone to read.

I am now grateful that I was able to pick up this book: The Dreaming Path as it captured the our Ancient Aboriginal Spirituality Wisdom, Stories, I was seeking but in a really easy read.

The Dreaming Path is going to help so many people and I think that’s the power of sharing the very best of Aboriginal Culture, Values, Teachings, Beliefs that so many of us have been missing.

It’s a must read for everyone globally.

[Suzie B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Over the years I have read a lot of self help books and those which deal with mental health issues, and I think The Dreaming Path will have to fit somewhere in my Top 5. It incorporates the importance of self care for ourselves before we can care for others and nature. Using indigenous philosophy, beliefs, stories and experiences, Paul carves a path to healing. Brilliant beyond words!!

[Hamad AlMannai · Rating 3 out of 5]

“The dreaming” is a concept that ties a lot of Aboriginal beliefs. From creation and origin to specific instructions on family responsibilities and even how to care for country.
Although the English term for this practice is “stories”, it’s infantilising and doesn’t quite capture the significance of the dreaming in aboriginal beliefs. It’s akin to calling the bible ‘stories’.
Dreaming paths refers to the physical paths and songlines across country that ancestors made during the dreaming. Paths that were migration highways and trading routes. During ’walkabouts’, a rite of passage in which custodianship and the sacred knowledge of the dreaming paths and the country are passed down generationally, the young adults were taught by their elders by connecting them with their natural habitat, ways to sustainable ways to live and prosper and stay safe and capable of hunting and foraging for tucker.
This book by Worimi writer, Dr Paul Callaghan, sheds some light on elder’s wisdoms and their ways of managing crises and other ‘old ways’ of caring for one’s wellbeing. Callaghan makes a point about aboriginal wellbeing is not taught in school as much as it ought to be.
My downside with this book is that it’s trying to be all things to all people. The parts about origin stories and aboriginal lore were my favourite, but the parts about mindfulness and personal growth was the same self help advice that I’ve read many times before.

[Steph B · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars 🌟

Wow, the Dreaming Path is probably the best self help book I have ever read. The Australian Indigenous knowledges interwoven with western view points was so beautifully written. It included such great life lessons about connecting with country, community, relationships, practicing gratitude and most importantly increasing self awareness to give our life more meaning.

As a non Indigenous person, it’s so important to never stop learning Indigenous knowledges and how we can incorporate this into everyday life.

I feel honoured and so grateful to have read this book and listen to Paul Callaghan and Uncle Paul Gordon stories, as stories have so much power to help humans heal, grow and love.

[Hannah Ferguson · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

[Dr. Jeevashi Pareemanen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I practice a few principles quoted in this book already but the book gives validity to many existing thoughts through history and witnesses. It is indeed a great discovery with its exercises and having chosen to read the whole book first, I am yet to practice the exercises. I recommend this book for readers who wants to understand how to maintain spirituality and peace of mind in the modern world we live in.

[Pat]

Paul Callaghan, of Australian aborigine heritage, was a highly educated successful business leader, husband and father, but on his 35th birthday he sank into depression. He was told that there was no cure, but medicine might manage it. Ready to give up, his fighting spirit emerged and he felt sure that he find away forward by studying books about it and talking to alternative healers, psychologists and the like.
His life began to turn around when he accepted an invitation to `go bush’ and learn about his aboriginal culture. Immediately he felt he was on a path to healing and week after week he went bush to continue his learning. Eventually he heard of Uncle Paul Gordon, an aboriginal teacher revered by all who met him. Despite his resistance to so-called gurus, Callaghan accepted Gordon as his mentor and, years later they wrote this book together. It is a self-help book but not one that describes easy fixes. Instead it provides a pathway to follow.
Central to the stories in the book is the Lore, the traditional knowledge that is passed on down the generations through song, story, places and dance. Each chapter covers one area of the Lore including caring for place, Relationships, sharing and unity, learning and truth. Uncle Paul tells the stories that pass the concepts of the Lore to the next generation, Paul Callagahan writes about his response to these stories and how they relate to today’s world. There is also an exercise you can do if you wish that focuses on the topic of the chapter.
My favorite part is the stories that are told to illustrate how we should live. Most feature animals who learn through experiences good and bad how they ought to live to be in harmony with each other and the land for which they are stewards. Like most indigenous groups around the world, they are taught to be guardians of the land that feeds them. The concept of ownership of the land does not exist.
As Uncle Paul writes, “my Dreaming is about my life and what I do with it. It can’t exist without the connection to the Dreaming of my ancestors through the Dreaming Path.” Paul Callaghan says living with purpose is essential to achieving contentment. Going bush and reclaiming his heritage helped Callaghan go forward with positivity. In this book he and Uncle Paul chart a path for the reader to follow each in our own way.

[Brendan Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Dreaming Path offers profound ancient wisdom that feels remarkably relevant to modern life. Callaghan bridges Indigenous thinking with contemporary challenges in a way that's both accessible and moving.

What struck me most was how the book's teachings parallel meditative practices, but with an added dimension of connection to land, environment, and place. There's something powerful about grounding mindfulness not just in breath or body, but in the actual earth beneath your feet.

As a business leader and father, I found myself constantly thinking about practical applications, how Indigenous principles of connection, patience, and deep listening could reshape not just personal wellbeing but leadership, decision-making, and organisational culture. The emphasis on reciprocity, long-term thinking, and collective benefit offers a compelling alternative to the extractive, short-term mindset that dominates modern business.

Highly recommended for anyone seeking a different lens through which to view success, productivity, and what it means to live well. The lessons here aren't just philosophical, they're genuinely actionable if you're willing to slow down and listen.

[Daisy Winney · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a book to read when you’re focused and know you’re going to properly take things in. I definitely struggled to give my undivided attention when reading this, but there is so much to learn in these pages.

Something that really stood out to me was the fact that there is no word equal to the meaning of “hate” in any Aboriginal language. I found that super powerful. And the way Paul highlights laughter being a form of medicine in Aboriginal living. Simple things like that I think we forget.

[Lilly · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 🌟

this was such a beautiful book! I learnt so much about aboriginal spirituality and law and am so touched by the stories and dreaming shared in the book. I do feel like the book was very simple in how to bring the dreaming path into our lives but hey, sometimes it is that simple! bringing it back to basics is sometimes exactly what we need. grateful to learn so much and as the authors say, knowledge only has power when it is shared. would recommend this book but absolutely from a self help lens if that's what someone is looking for. very special book

[An · Rating 5 out of 5]

How often I've wished to have a healthy guardian, fairy godmother, elder or ancestor to initiate me into life and guide me through its happenings. In a way, this book is exactly that. There is so much wisdom in there. Some of it I've had some experience with in other spaces, while other things like how to connect to the land less so. It's also highly practical and readable. Very grateful for its teachings.

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘When you do things to please others you are giving your power away’

‘Knowledge is only powerful when shared’

‘Contentment is not the fulfilment of what you want but the realisation of how much you already have’

‘Don’t be a ghost. Leave some tracks for others to follow’

[Clare · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great follow on and revision from Iridescence. I love learning about the aboriginal culture and values.

[Julie Swann · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 1/2 stars really enjoyed.

[Rose Wh · Rating 4 out of 5]

easy listen, good prompts and meditations throughout

[Tellatale · Rating 2 out of 5]

Good for someone starting their journey on self improvement books, but nothing noteworthy or new if you have already read books of this genre.

[Nick Wasiliev · Rating 5 out of 5]

Put this simply: you must read this book, especially if you are an Australian.

Many people struggle to connect with First Nations people, and it is a complicated reason why. In today’s world that seems to be going ever faster, Australia is a country with a rich tapestry of people from all around the world, a place that can misunderstand, misrepresent, or completely reject the way of thinking and way of life of the world’s oldest culture that once spread far across this land.

In our journeys of self-discovery, we often talk about the need for mindfulness: being present, connected, and engaged with ourselves, the space around us, and the people and creatures among us. For me and my experiences with Indigenous culture, now more than ever such a way of thinking seems relevant to our times if we give ourselves the chance to understand and engage with it.

To those reading, this book is your way to do that: to learn and engage with the world’s oldest culture.

I was lucky enough to hear from Worimi man Paul Callaghan as he spoke with Wiradjuri/Wolgalu man and former NRL star Joe Williams on Booktopia’s YouTube channel, and in that discussion, they talked in depth about the creation of The Dreaming Path.

Inspired by the conversation, I got myself a copy, and was utterly blown away: Paul talks about similar challenges in his life, but more importantly, how reconnecting with Country, culture, and First Nations experience brought calm, self-love, and assurance into his life.

He divides the book into eight sections, covering caring for Country and the importance of story, relationships, love and humility, learning, developing resilience, healing from the past, finding contentment, and leading.

In all of these sections, he gives a thorough analysis of the values First Nations peoples set, how their processes come together, and how they lead to long-term happiness. He sprinkles in many Indigenous stories within the book, highlighting the value of the Lore, why it matters so much and the value of preserving it, and what can happen to you if you stray from it.

It turns out that tens of thousands of years of culture knows some things, and its lessons are poignant for our lives today.

As I made my way through this book, I was stunned by the fact that at its core, First Nations peoples thrive on the gift of the present: being in the moment, being thankful for Country, and the happiness that comes from your brothers and sisters, be they human or otherwise.

Paul is joined throughout the book by his co-author, Ngemba man Uncle Paul Gordon. The connection between the two emerges later in the book in a beautiful story, but Uncle Paul’s inclusions complement Callaghan’s chapters beautifully. Uncle Paul speaks succinctly, with purpose and meaning. His words are filled with knowledge, and you hang on to everything he says.

This is a book about a rediscovery of a culture that, quite frankly, seems more necessary now to connect with than ever, even beyond the current political context of the aftermath of the Voice referendum. Callaghan has done the oldest culture in the world justice: it’s a book about learning, seeing anew, and appreciating the beauty in the world around you.

A conversation needs to happen in Australia about how we treat our First Nations people, but what both Paul and Uncle Paul have done is craft a book that allows you to understand. It breaks down the barrier between our chaotic 21st-century world and culture thousands of years old, filled with meaning and driven by a love of all things.

Every Australian needs to read this book. Take a trip down The Dreaming Path, it is intensely rewarding.

Booktopia: https://booktopia.kh4ffx.net/eKZBQQ
Angus & Robertson: https://angusrobertson.4tqiav.net/anG6LY

[Teenage Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Plot:
Using the Indigenous teachings those native to Australia to learn and lead by, Paul Callaghan along with Uncle Paul Gordon write this novel about the importance of connecting to Mother Earth and reconnecting with your spirituality. This novel emphasizes self-care along with self-love, as this self-help novel takes readers on a spiritual journey through stories to create this awe-inspiring journey on how to improve your life, simply by appreciating what you currently have and setting goals on where you want your future to take you.

Thoughts:
This novel is divided into several parts, as each of the eight chapters contains Indigenous storytelling, Callaghan is talking to you, providing you exercises to practice, and messages to remember the chapter by. With easy writing, this novel is something you can easily get behind as Callaghan's main message is to believe in yourself, appreciate what you got, go out in nature, and just be nicer to yourself and the world. My favorite part of the novel was the Indigenous stories, with their clear messaging and appreciation of nature, and allowing readers to experience Indigenous culture without feeling like we are appropriating. With a comparison to Western Culture (mostly USA-based), Callaghan did not bash this culture, but instead show the difference between that and Indigenous Australia, and how taking the slower, old fashion route to how we view family and nature; valuing it instead of tolerating it - just might make you a bit happier. Where I normally don’t push for self-help books, this novel's main focus on mental health can be valuable to readers who find themselves struggling with their current life. With the educational value of this novel showing the Indigenous way of life by an Indigenous author, it makes this short-ish novel worth the read.

[Jeremy Blank · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had this book recommended to me by Bernadette. Her advice was astute. In my current work role I am involved in developing the promotion of First Nations cultural awareness, this book does the job perfectly. Paul Callaghan and Uncle Paul Gordon provide a welcome insight into the depths of First Nations culture and lore. They clearly express the differences between colonial, imported laws imposed on an existing network of culture whose values and traditions were accepted across the land and waters of what is now labeled Australia.

There is no anger in the authors’ statements. They outline the differences between First Nations and the Colonial imposition of a Westminster system of rule in what was perceived as Terra Nullus (a land with no titles) as no European architectural structures such as roads, towns etc were encountered.

The writing shares understanding of kinship, family roles and responsibilities and how a community works together in supporting each other. The role and importance of elders is well defined and provides a clear and understandable explanation from two senior voices whose experiences embrace their awareness of colonial removal from their culture, capacity to learn work and grow in the western system and return to evaluate and grow into fully rounded individuals through reconnecting to culture and country.

This is a great book and should be promoted in an educational setting for the promotion of better cultural appreciation for professionals working with First Nations communities and individuals, schools and community groups. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

[Tomas Gronich · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had high hopes for The Dreaming Path from Dr. Paul Callaghan, that were not as fulfilled as I'd have wanted them to be.

I expected a dive into Aboriginal Culture and The Dreaming, learning more about the Lore and cultural practices. I got some of that, but majority of the book revolves about several topics:
1) Why Aboriginal culture is superb to Western culture
2) Why Western culture sucks
3) How to connect to your Country and people around

I mean, I am also not a fan of "Western culture" (being white, but of a very different culture than the usual US/UK brand of it), but this book is pushing the alleged superiority of Aboriginal culture too much. Every path has its pros and cons and to me, balance seems to be a better answer.

This book is good, for someone who is struggling with their life, career and/or mental health. It does give you some ways to help sorting out your life and be happier. All wrapped in Aboriginal flavour and with some Lore stories.
Not much for me, though. I did not need this book.
It wasn't bad. I just hoped to get more of point 3 and much less of points 1 and 2.

#book #books #bookreview #bookstagram #bookphotography #bookworm #thedreamingpath #paulcallaghan

It wasn't bad. I just hoped to get more of point 3 and much less of points 1 and 2.

[Kylie H · Rating 5 out of 5]

I purchased this book after hearing Paul Callaghan interviewed on a podcast and although I picked it up and put it down several times, I think it didn't hurt my reading and understanding of it.
The book applies traditional Australian Aboriginal spirituality to modern-day life. There are traditional Dreamtime stories woven into the book which is a guide to finding a place of wellbeing within yourself through your connections with your people, nature and the wider environment. The book inspires hope in a world were there is currently so much anger and destruction.
There is one particular exercise outlined in the book in which you 'connect with place' and I found it so deeply soothing.
In a world that is becoming more and more about the 'individual' and 'self' this is a book about 'us'. I now have a real appreciation for the quiet intelligence and dignity of our First Nations people. I think I will pick up this book again and again to earth myself and find a place of peace.

[Amy Margaret · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Dreaming Path by Paul Callaghan with Uncle Paul Gordon is a book that takes you on a journey through Indigenous thinking to change your life. Aimed at helping people look beyond the challenges of everyday life, by going back to the "old ways" practiced by the First Nations people of Australia.

Filled with conversations, dreamtime stories, key messages and exercises to share the knowledge and power of Aboriginal spirituality. It's a beautiful book and one that all Australians, or really anyone, could benefit from reading. It's not a rejection of Western practices and beliefs, more a gentle introduction to another way of thinking that could help in today's fast paced world. I'm glad I took the time to try the exercises, which makes for a true experience.

Not going to star rate this one as I've decided to treat it almost like I do a memoir, but others should give it a try.

[Robert Yokoyama · Rating 5 out of 5]

I tutor adults who struggle to read and write. The Dreaming Path provides insights that will help me do my job more effectively. The biggest insight I learned is to strive to connect to my natural environment by using my five senses. If I can help my clients develop this skill, they will be more verbally expressive. I hope my clients will be able read and write better when they connect to their surroundings. Another insight from this book is to exercise to eliminate negative self-talk. I will strive to increase my exercise time to accomplish this goal. I hope I can be a more patient literacy tutor when I feel better mentally and physically. Finally, I can strive not to compare myself to other people to reach greater contentment on my job. I love the practical and simple insights in this book so much.

[Merrilee Frankish · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent- a unique, priceless insight into First Nation’s culture, stories, dreamings and wisdom for both non Indigenous and indigenous peoples. There were points of learnings, stories and exercises leading to an experiential growth journey for readers. The author’s ability to communicate to the non indigenous and help us start to understand these concepts was much appreciated. Taking the development of the story in small amounts, I look forward to returning again many times. Maybe the grace of First Nation’s peoples will lead to a more inclusive, peaceful, purposeful earth, where Country is highly valued and we all leave definite footprints in the sand.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just a lovely book that includes some Aboriginal stories, explanations of the importance of country and how we all have a story, and exercises we can do. Yes there are some things that have been said many times such as keeping a gratitude journal, however there are many other exercises that are simple to do and are new. It is so nice to get a first Nations perspective. it is a book that is easy to read with a summary of the main points at the end of each chapter.
One thing that stood out for me was the need to respect all creatures as well as the land .

[Jacob Langham · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful read. I actually read this via audiobook and what an immersive experience it was. There was nothing better than sitting on the tram or train to and from work, listening to the various dreaming stories and their applicability to modern life. The lessons in this book are taught through dream time stories and modern anecdotes, which is such an impactful mix. I resonated with so much of this book, as a non First Nations man, it makes me want to keep learning about the diverse perspectives of FN people across Australia. My favourite book of the year so far.

[Farrells Bookshop · Rating 5 out of 5]

Over the years I have read a lot of self help books and those which deal with mental health issues, and I think 'The Dreaming Path' will have to fit somewhere in my Top 5. It incorporates the importance of self care for ourselves before we can care for others and nature. Using indigenous philosophy, beliefs, stories and experiences, Paul carves a path to healing. Brilliant beyond words!!

Read by Suzie

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is a profound book about how we can make the world a better place if we use the aboriginal dreaming path.

If leaders thought about how their decisions would impact their childrens children, children. If we thought everything, including rocks, had souls. If we protected our environment like it was a family member and more.

It really brings home how our world of greed and self-interest has left us where we are today.

[Pam Saunders · Rating 5 out of 5]

I did exactly what this book does not advocate, I rushed my reading. Why, it was due back at the library with holds. This is a book to buy, to write in, to use as a bible for living, for thinking, for being in the moment, for stopping and watching. So I need to buy my own copy. It’s my desert island religious text of choice.

So much wisdom and calm from following the dreaming path.

Message 12 pg 158
Knowledge is worth nothing if we don’t share it.

[Deb Kingston · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book, their stories and learning a bit about Lore. The Dreaming Path is written in such simplicity but has so much depth, love, truth and understanding within it’s pages. I strongly believe that the western world does have a lot to learn from the indigenous culture on connection to nature how to treat and preserve our land.