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Native American Spiritualism: An Exploration of Indigenous Beliefs and Cultures
Explore the spiritual practices, legends, and traditions of various Indigenous tribes throughout the North American continent.
The Indigenous peoples of North America have followed a wide variety of spiritual traditions, many of which have been carried on to present day. Native American Spiritualism offers powerful insight into the origins and practices of Indigenous American spirituality with a multiplicity of spells, rituals, folklore, and myths. Expand your vision of spirituality as you
Widespread indigenous spiritual traditions from across North America Selected histories, myths, and legends that inform and enrich these traditions Rituals, meditations, and other practices that can strengthen your spiritual life and help you live in a more conscious relationship with the earth
As with every title in the Mystic Traditions series, Native American Spiritualism is a celebration of a unique and beautiful culture. As such, the subject matter and content has been treated with the utmost care and respect to ensure an accurate and reverent presentation that is accessible to a variety of audiences, and serves to further educate and foster support for these rich practices and traditions for years to come.
Illustrated with stunning imagery, Native American Spiritualism is a must-read for practitioners who wish to explore the origins of their craft and practices.
The Mystic Traditions series explores mystical and spiritual traditions and magical practices from around the world from a modern perspective. These guides offer concise introductions to the origins of mystical practices; explain key concepts, figures, and legends in these traditions; and give straightforward and engaging instruction on how to connect directly with these practices through rituals, spells, and more.
Also from the Mystic Traditions Celtic Mysticism, Zen Buddhism.
The Indigenous peoples of North America have followed a wide variety of spiritual traditions, many of which have been carried on to present day. Native American Spiritualism offers powerful insight into the origins and practices of Indigenous American spirituality with a multiplicity of spells, rituals, folklore, and myths. Expand your vision of spirituality as you
Widespread indigenous spiritual traditions from across North America Selected histories, myths, and legends that inform and enrich these traditions Rituals, meditations, and other practices that can strengthen your spiritual life and help you live in a more conscious relationship with the earth
As with every title in the Mystic Traditions series, Native American Spiritualism is a celebration of a unique and beautiful culture. As such, the subject matter and content has been treated with the utmost care and respect to ensure an accurate and reverent presentation that is accessible to a variety of audiences, and serves to further educate and foster support for these rich practices and traditions for years to come.
Illustrated with stunning imagery, Native American Spiritualism is a must-read for practitioners who wish to explore the origins of their craft and practices.
The Mystic Traditions series explores mystical and spiritual traditions and magical practices from around the world from a modern perspective. These guides offer concise introductions to the origins of mystical practices; explain key concepts, figures, and legends in these traditions; and give straightforward and engaging instruction on how to connect directly with these practices through rituals, spells, and more.
Also from the Mystic Traditions Celtic Mysticism, Zen Buddhism.
168 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2023
16 people are currently reading
163 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
October 30, 2025
Amazing read. The perfect book for anyone starting to dig into Native American culture and history. Also has a great explanation of appropriation vs appreciation.
July 15, 2023
ARC Book Review Native American Spiritualism
Introduction
I was given a copy to review by Wellfleet Press and Netgalley. My reviews are always honest and all opinions are my own. #ARCReview #Netgalley #NativeAmericaSpiritualism #LMArroyo #WellfleetPress
Review
I feel I need to preface the main review with a little more depth than my introduction covers. I am not American but I am fully aware that as a citizen of the UK our ancestors (I am not fully aware if any of mine did leave the isles) were in part responsible for setting out and taking over the lands of the Americas from those who had lived their for centuries. As such despite what our school history may teach while in primary or secondary I always wanted to find both sides, or rather the true side of history from those who were ultimately displaced, removed from their land, had the cultures and beliefs questions and sometimes persecuted all the idea of what we were taught back in history class was ‘Manifest Destiny’. Ultimately a nice way of putting that, that land that was yours is now ours because we say so. As such I have always had a deep appreciation for Native American Cultures, as I say cultures because as the book details each tribe and group may have their own believes and customs that differ from the other. Needless to say I was interested and excited to read this one.
I believe from the introduction it is clear that L M Arroyo feels much the same way as I do and I fully understand that passion, particularly when highlighting injustices can be hard to reign in. That said I found parts of the introduction, while I fully agreed with it, regarding appropriation of the culture of the indigenous people a little too aggressive in a book that is hopefully going to inspire people and their customs. I fully agree with the sentiment as I say and for me I found myself nodding along but I feel that some who may be trying to learn more or starting their journey to understand the Native American people and their way of life may feel like they are being judged already. Particular in the current climate of today’s society it could be that some will become angry and forgo buying and reading a wonderfully researched book. Again I do fully understand the passion and meaning behind it. As someone who has a strong appreciation for Japan and it’s culture as well as Native American’s and theirs it is easy to find appropriation and become angry. And we should be. I just felt personally it could turn some people who are likely to falter along the line of appropriation and appreciation turn away from the book. But once more I fully understand and get why Arroyo goes so full on this path, making it clear that some things are not okay, especially when you consider the way these people where treated by early settlers and still are being treated today.
Arroyo’s passion for the subject shows ultimately throughout the book. They have researched and then concisely and clearly put this research into structured ways to give us insight into the peoples that populated America before the settlers. Multiple subjects are covered including Oral Traditions and the historical events of the Mythic Time, key values of the eight Nations including the Chippewa, Sioux and Chumash Nations, the Native American seasonal ceremonies and their cultural significance, everyday life in the Nations including games, objects and common foods and much more as well. It is ultimately a celebration of the unique cultures and beliefs of the people indigenous to North America. I particularly liked that Arroyo offered ways to not use or follow the beliefs of those Nations but how we can reflect on those things and how they may tie into the way or path we already follow. Again they highlight the line between appreciation and appropriation of the culture and its beliefs, highlighting the differences but how elements of them can be used for reflection on our selves and our relationships to nature, the past, the present and ultimately each other.
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#ARCReview #Netgalley #NativeAmericaSpiritualism #LMArroyo #WellfleetPress # #BookReviewer#BookBlogger #BookHoader #FantasticRead #BookDragon #BookShark #BookReader #Bookstagram #BookNerd #BookReader #BookLover #BooksBooksBooks #BookAddict #Book
Introduction
I was given a copy to review by Wellfleet Press and Netgalley. My reviews are always honest and all opinions are my own. #ARCReview #Netgalley #NativeAmericaSpiritualism #LMArroyo #WellfleetPress
Review
I feel I need to preface the main review with a little more depth than my introduction covers. I am not American but I am fully aware that as a citizen of the UK our ancestors (I am not fully aware if any of mine did leave the isles) were in part responsible for setting out and taking over the lands of the Americas from those who had lived their for centuries. As such despite what our school history may teach while in primary or secondary I always wanted to find both sides, or rather the true side of history from those who were ultimately displaced, removed from their land, had the cultures and beliefs questions and sometimes persecuted all the idea of what we were taught back in history class was ‘Manifest Destiny’. Ultimately a nice way of putting that, that land that was yours is now ours because we say so. As such I have always had a deep appreciation for Native American Cultures, as I say cultures because as the book details each tribe and group may have their own believes and customs that differ from the other. Needless to say I was interested and excited to read this one.
I believe from the introduction it is clear that L M Arroyo feels much the same way as I do and I fully understand that passion, particularly when highlighting injustices can be hard to reign in. That said I found parts of the introduction, while I fully agreed with it, regarding appropriation of the culture of the indigenous people a little too aggressive in a book that is hopefully going to inspire people and their customs. I fully agree with the sentiment as I say and for me I found myself nodding along but I feel that some who may be trying to learn more or starting their journey to understand the Native American people and their way of life may feel like they are being judged already. Particular in the current climate of today’s society it could be that some will become angry and forgo buying and reading a wonderfully researched book. Again I do fully understand the passion and meaning behind it. As someone who has a strong appreciation for Japan and it’s culture as well as Native American’s and theirs it is easy to find appropriation and become angry. And we should be. I just felt personally it could turn some people who are likely to falter along the line of appropriation and appreciation turn away from the book. But once more I fully understand and get why Arroyo goes so full on this path, making it clear that some things are not okay, especially when you consider the way these people where treated by early settlers and still are being treated today.
Arroyo’s passion for the subject shows ultimately throughout the book. They have researched and then concisely and clearly put this research into structured ways to give us insight into the peoples that populated America before the settlers. Multiple subjects are covered including Oral Traditions and the historical events of the Mythic Time, key values of the eight Nations including the Chippewa, Sioux and Chumash Nations, the Native American seasonal ceremonies and their cultural significance, everyday life in the Nations including games, objects and common foods and much more as well. It is ultimately a celebration of the unique cultures and beliefs of the people indigenous to North America. I particularly liked that Arroyo offered ways to not use or follow the beliefs of those Nations but how we can reflect on those things and how they may tie into the way or path we already follow. Again they highlight the line between appreciation and appropriation of the culture and its beliefs, highlighting the differences but how elements of them can be used for reflection on our selves and our relationships to nature, the past, the present and ultimately each other.
Hashtag
#ARCReview #Netgalley #NativeAmericaSpiritualism #LMArroyo #WellfleetPress # #BookReviewer#BookBlogger #BookHoader #FantasticRead #BookDragon #BookShark #BookReader #Bookstagram #BookNerd #BookReader #BookLover #BooksBooksBooks #BookAddict #Book
January 30, 2025
AMAZING. First the surface level things: This book is so pretty, the color scheme is aesthetically pleasing, and the attention to detail is outstanding. While this isn't something that any book *needs* to have, it still is an appreciated bonus. Now into the meat and potatoes: This novel was so well-written and Arroyo did an amazing job explaining concepts like cultural appropriation vs cultural appreciation. Furthermore, each Nation's segment was well done and highlighted their Traditions, viewpoints, and what is important to them. Additionally, Arroyo showed that all of these things exist today in spite of years effort to erase Native American culture and force conformality to the colonizer's way of life. The interactive questions that push the reader to reflect upon their own lives and previous knowledge was refreshing and something I hope to see more of in non-fiction books that seek to educate/re-educate individuals.
On a personal note, I am disappointed the author didn't go more into the history faced by the Sioux Nation. Arroyo discussed the French colonizers and how they played a role coining 'Chippewa,' but failed to educate on the Sioux and the French. As someone living in SD this is an important part of history that is not taught in our public schools but needs to be known- especially since South Dakota's biggest city is named after the Sioux Nation who lived on this land before the settlers came. The French traders were first told by the Sioux Nation to come no further west. One explanation is that the French went to the Ojibwas and asked about who were these people stopping their fur hunting expansion. The Ojibwas, who were enemies of the Sioux Nation at the time, would only refer to the Nation as "Nadouessioux" which means "little snakes/snake in the grass." The French traders would then later shorten this to "Sioux." Another theory is that the term Sioux came from the French word "sauvage," which translates to 'untamed' or 'wild.' This was used as a degretory word. Regardless of the true history, this word has spiteful origins. Due to these spiteful origins of the name 'Sioux' some prefer the use of Lakota/Dakota/Nakota- much in the same way the Ojibwe feel about the term Chippewa. See the attached website I will add to the comments of this review if you wish to know more (if anyone has read all of this lol). Lastly, Arroyo mentioned at the end of the book in the references section The Water Protectors movement and I wish it was discussed more in the Sioux Nation chapter as it is a huge current-day political manner for the Great Plains.
On a broader note, I am surprised Arroyo did not say much about the murdered and missing indigenous women and children. I understand the focal point of this was to provide education on indigenous beliefs and cultures, however they did touch on current-day political issues such as the Chinook Nation's lack of federal recognition.
Regardless of this criticism, I still **HIGHLY** recommend this book because even if you are knowledgeable about different Nations, their history, and culture, you will likely still learn something new.
On a personal note, I am disappointed the author didn't go more into the history faced by the Sioux Nation. Arroyo discussed the French colonizers and how they played a role coining 'Chippewa,' but failed to educate on the Sioux and the French. As someone living in SD this is an important part of history that is not taught in our public schools but needs to be known- especially since South Dakota's biggest city is named after the Sioux Nation who lived on this land before the settlers came. The French traders were first told by the Sioux Nation to come no further west. One explanation is that the French went to the Ojibwas and asked about who were these people stopping their fur hunting expansion. The Ojibwas, who were enemies of the Sioux Nation at the time, would only refer to the Nation as "Nadouessioux" which means "little snakes/snake in the grass." The French traders would then later shorten this to "Sioux." Another theory is that the term Sioux came from the French word "sauvage," which translates to 'untamed' or 'wild.' This was used as a degretory word. Regardless of the true history, this word has spiteful origins. Due to these spiteful origins of the name 'Sioux' some prefer the use of Lakota/Dakota/Nakota- much in the same way the Ojibwe feel about the term Chippewa. See the attached website I will add to the comments of this review if you wish to know more (if anyone has read all of this lol). Lastly, Arroyo mentioned at the end of the book in the references section The Water Protectors movement and I wish it was discussed more in the Sioux Nation chapter as it is a huge current-day political manner for the Great Plains.
On a broader note, I am surprised Arroyo did not say much about the murdered and missing indigenous women and children. I understand the focal point of this was to provide education on indigenous beliefs and cultures, however they did touch on current-day political issues such as the Chinook Nation's lack of federal recognition.
Regardless of this criticism, I still **HIGHLY** recommend this book because even if you are knowledgeable about different Nations, their history, and culture, you will likely still learn something new.
February 6, 2024
Was on display in the library. I was interested about the Cherokee in particular, since I'm told there are some in the family. Lots of material in here was new to me. Some of the Diné (Navajo) parts felt familiar, but that may be because I've lived in the Southwest most of my life. Mom may have worked some material into our homeschool curriculum, with her emphasis on yarn crafts like (lap) looms, knitting, and crocheting.
This book is a good overview of indigenous groups by region. Each chapter starts with the flag or banner of the group in question, describes where they live, lists a few of their defining attributes and beliefs (using one for the chapter title), and has an application section at the end, which has information readers may apply in their own lives.
Groups are usually discussed individually. In Sign of the Beaver, which I read recently, natives in Maine play a game similar to the Peach Pit Game of the Haudenosaunee (whom the French called Iroquois), but they also have a tradition like the Manitou (or Spirit Guide) of the Anishinaabe, also known as Ojibwa or Chinook. Whether intermixing of traditions like this could have happened with that book's group (the Wabanaki, I believe) is not discussed here. And doing so would be a formidable task, because the intro says there are about 600 federally recognized nations total.
Images are usually drawn illustrations. I felt like I could use more figures or diagrams, especially on the chapter about the Lakota of the Great Sioux Nation. And maybe maps of the places the different nations have lived, following the Chippewa during their migration in the days of the Seven Fires Prophecy, for example. The map of the Trail of Tears was very helpful. (Looks like Tahlequah from Where the Red Fern Grows, another book I read recently, was one of the more Western points on the trail.) There is also a neat labeled image of a swordfish head decorated by the Chumash.
Also noticed the symbol from our state flag here in New Mexico appeared in several places. (Including the front cover!) I think it's from the Zia, who aren't in this book. Wondering if they had a similar reverence for the number four (the number of seasons, cardinal directions, ...) like the Diné and the Chumash of California? Before knowing about that fact, from memory I might have mistakenly drawn the symbol with four sets of three lines.
A big part of the book, especially the introduction and conclusion, is cultural appropriation versus appreciation. I still feel a little hazy on the difference. However, the end-of-chapter application sections tend to offer good suggestions on how to honor the people and their cultures appropriately.
It also sounds like tribes have protections in place to prevent unwanted outside influence on some sacred traditions. Which goes along with another theme the book talks about: Law and Native cultures. Usually only in brief, since the focus is on spiritualism. But it is something I'd like to know more about. Some laws outlawing practices were still on the books until FDR's day!
This book is a nice fast way to learn about the differences and similarities across a variety of distinct Native cultures.
This book is a good overview of indigenous groups by region. Each chapter starts with the flag or banner of the group in question, describes where they live, lists a few of their defining attributes and beliefs (using one for the chapter title), and has an application section at the end, which has information readers may apply in their own lives.
Groups are usually discussed individually. In Sign of the Beaver, which I read recently, natives in Maine play a game similar to the Peach Pit Game of the Haudenosaunee (whom the French called Iroquois), but they also have a tradition like the Manitou (or Spirit Guide) of the Anishinaabe, also known as Ojibwa or Chinook. Whether intermixing of traditions like this could have happened with that book's group (the Wabanaki, I believe) is not discussed here. And doing so would be a formidable task, because the intro says there are about 600 federally recognized nations total.
Images are usually drawn illustrations. I felt like I could use more figures or diagrams, especially on the chapter about the Lakota of the Great Sioux Nation. And maybe maps of the places the different nations have lived, following the Chippewa during their migration in the days of the Seven Fires Prophecy, for example. The map of the Trail of Tears was very helpful. (Looks like Tahlequah from Where the Red Fern Grows, another book I read recently, was one of the more Western points on the trail.) There is also a neat labeled image of a swordfish head decorated by the Chumash.
Also noticed the symbol from our state flag here in New Mexico appeared in several places. (Including the front cover!) I think it's from the Zia, who aren't in this book. Wondering if they had a similar reverence for the number four (the number of seasons, cardinal directions, ...) like the Diné and the Chumash of California? Before knowing about that fact, from memory I might have mistakenly drawn the symbol with four sets of three lines.
A big part of the book, especially the introduction and conclusion, is cultural appropriation versus appreciation. I still feel a little hazy on the difference. However, the end-of-chapter application sections tend to offer good suggestions on how to honor the people and their cultures appropriately.
It also sounds like tribes have protections in place to prevent unwanted outside influence on some sacred traditions. Which goes along with another theme the book talks about: Law and Native cultures. Usually only in brief, since the focus is on spiritualism. But it is something I'd like to know more about. Some laws outlawing practices were still on the books until FDR's day!
This book is a nice fast way to learn about the differences and similarities across a variety of distinct Native cultures.
July 16, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Native American Spiritualism: An Exploration of Indigenous Beliefs and Cultures by L. M. Arroyo is a highly insightful and captivating book that delves into the spiritual practices, legends, and traditions of various Indigenous tribes across North America. It offers a comprehensive insight into the origins and practices of Indigenous American spirituality, encompassing a wide range of spells, rituals, folklore, and myths.
As part of the Mystic Traditions series, Native American Spiritualism celebrates the unique and beautiful culture of Native Americans. The utmost care and respect have been taken in presenting the subject matter with accuracy and reverence. This ensures accessibility to a diverse audience while also fostering support for these rich practices and traditions for years to come.
The book is beautifully illustrated with stunning imagery that enhances the reading experience. It is a must-read for practitioners who wish to explore the origins of their craft and delve deeper into their practices.
In my opinion, this book is incredibly insightful and provides a wealth of knowledge about First Nations’ stories, history, and culture. The layout is well-organized, making it easy to navigate and comprehend. I particularly enjoyed the visual presentation of off-white pages and the inclusion of graphics throughout the book. Additionally, the thought-inducing exercises provided are truly engaging for readers.
Overall, Native American Spiritualism: An Exploration of Indigenous Beliefs and Cultures by L. M. Arroyo is an exceptional resource that not only educates but also sparks curiosity about Native American spirituality.
**ARC Via NetGalley**
Native American Spiritualism: An Exploration of Indigenous Beliefs and Cultures by L. M. Arroyo is a highly insightful and captivating book that delves into the spiritual practices, legends, and traditions of various Indigenous tribes across North America. It offers a comprehensive insight into the origins and practices of Indigenous American spirituality, encompassing a wide range of spells, rituals, folklore, and myths.
As part of the Mystic Traditions series, Native American Spiritualism celebrates the unique and beautiful culture of Native Americans. The utmost care and respect have been taken in presenting the subject matter with accuracy and reverence. This ensures accessibility to a diverse audience while also fostering support for these rich practices and traditions for years to come.
The book is beautifully illustrated with stunning imagery that enhances the reading experience. It is a must-read for practitioners who wish to explore the origins of their craft and delve deeper into their practices.
In my opinion, this book is incredibly insightful and provides a wealth of knowledge about First Nations’ stories, history, and culture. The layout is well-organized, making it easy to navigate and comprehend. I particularly enjoyed the visual presentation of off-white pages and the inclusion of graphics throughout the book. Additionally, the thought-inducing exercises provided are truly engaging for readers.
Overall, Native American Spiritualism: An Exploration of Indigenous Beliefs and Cultures by L. M. Arroyo is an exceptional resource that not only educates but also sparks curiosity about Native American spirituality.
**ARC Via NetGalley**
August 27, 2023
Native American Spiritualism documents the spiritual practices and ideologies of a collection of Native American cultures from a Native perspective.
I really appreciated how Arroyo instructed the non-native reader to respectfully apply the insights that can be gained from studying Native American spirituality without culturally appropriating. The reflective guides at the end of each chapter allow the reader to evaluate ideas that resonated with them within the context of their own culture so they do not take from native practices. Redirecting the misguided spiritual enthusiasm of non-natives rather than simply warning them not to appropriate is probably the best way to handle that, and I will absolutely be trying that salmon recipe!
I'm from Georgia, which is the original home of the Cherokee and the start of the Trail of Tears. So, the Cherokee section is what I was most interested in. What surprised me was that the Chippewa practices were actually what I was most familiar with since so many of them have been stripped of their cultural significance and co-opted by mainstream Western culture.
I wish pronunciations were included, either parenthetically after native names or words or at the end in a glossary, because I can't confidently say most of the words out loud. But, I appreciated the list of resources in the back.
It is a relatively short read and covers multiple cultures, so it doesn't get too in-depth. However, it is a great starting point for anyone interested in learning more about Native Americans and it should be available in every middle and high school library.
I really appreciated how Arroyo instructed the non-native reader to respectfully apply the insights that can be gained from studying Native American spirituality without culturally appropriating. The reflective guides at the end of each chapter allow the reader to evaluate ideas that resonated with them within the context of their own culture so they do not take from native practices. Redirecting the misguided spiritual enthusiasm of non-natives rather than simply warning them not to appropriate is probably the best way to handle that, and I will absolutely be trying that salmon recipe!
I'm from Georgia, which is the original home of the Cherokee and the start of the Trail of Tears. So, the Cherokee section is what I was most interested in. What surprised me was that the Chippewa practices were actually what I was most familiar with since so many of them have been stripped of their cultural significance and co-opted by mainstream Western culture.
I wish pronunciations were included, either parenthetically after native names or words or at the end in a glossary, because I can't confidently say most of the words out loud. But, I appreciated the list of resources in the back.
It is a relatively short read and covers multiple cultures, so it doesn't get too in-depth. However, it is a great starting point for anyone interested in learning more about Native Americans and it should be available in every middle and high school library.
January 24, 2024
the author gave a good account if some of themsjor tribal groups after a rocky introduction.
the introduction admonished the reader to stop discriminating against the native americans but of course the reader of this book would be either a native american or a native american ally fell a bit flat.
however then she gave an excellent account of the tribes she chose. she did make a minor error in saying that only the chinook never went to a reservation. i believe that the seminoles were never defeated though often attacked. they had a constant replenishment of warriors by ex slaves.
i loved her comparative creation stories from the chumash coming from seeds and the Lakota and their primary food source coming from a Black Hills.
i was fascinated by the lenape who i had mixed feelings about before but now i have a more balanced outlook on.
she also did not describe the pueblo, the apache, the commanche but then the book would have taken too long to read/write. I like her writing and hope she will write a sequel with some of these other major tribes perhaps also including hurons and mohigans as well as the muskogee.
the introduction admonished the reader to stop discriminating against the native americans but of course the reader of this book would be either a native american or a native american ally fell a bit flat.
however then she gave an excellent account of the tribes she chose. she did make a minor error in saying that only the chinook never went to a reservation. i believe that the seminoles were never defeated though often attacked. they had a constant replenishment of warriors by ex slaves.
i loved her comparative creation stories from the chumash coming from seeds and the Lakota and their primary food source coming from a Black Hills.
i was fascinated by the lenape who i had mixed feelings about before but now i have a more balanced outlook on.
she also did not describe the pueblo, the apache, the commanche but then the book would have taken too long to read/write. I like her writing and hope she will write a sequel with some of these other major tribes perhaps also including hurons and mohigans as well as the muskogee.
December 11, 2023
A small book with great impact!
I adore this book. Plain and simple. It was a wonderful read, such an insightful way to understand the many Nations, a bit of their culture and particularities and to enlarge and enrich my understanding on what it means to be on this earth.
Along with he beauty of knowledge and the expansion it brings, I appreciate greatly the writing style, the permanent concern for the reader to not appropriate the practice of the Nations and create their own meaningful ones. A fantastic read I highly recommend as a starting point in knowing and respecting the Nations.
I received a copy of this book in order to offer my view on it.
I adore this book. Plain and simple. It was a wonderful read, such an insightful way to understand the many Nations, a bit of their culture and particularities and to enlarge and enrich my understanding on what it means to be on this earth.
Along with he beauty of knowledge and the expansion it brings, I appreciate greatly the writing style, the permanent concern for the reader to not appropriate the practice of the Nations and create their own meaningful ones. A fantastic read I highly recommend as a starting point in knowing and respecting the Nations.
I received a copy of this book in order to offer my view on it.
March 21, 2025
Great amounts of information and exercises to connect Indigenous values into your daily life without appropriating them or disrespecting them. The author also connects the history of colonization and persecution against Native Americans to better understand their perspectives of protecting Native American culture and the spiritual importance of their ceremonies, creations, art, rituals, etc. I also was given a greater understanding of the importance of the land Native Americans resided on and their connection to their land to better fully understand the devastating effects of being forcibly removed from their land had on them.
April 20, 2024
This could have definitely been done without absolutely hating on non-natives AKA colonizers. Especially the line “once non-natives can manage to humble themselves…” etc. As someone of Native descent who just wanted to learn more about the culture, this left me with a bad taste. It has so much good info and potential, if only the hostile tone was left out. I also found a pretty obvious typo on one of the dates listed.
March 6, 2025
Fantastic education on Native American cultures and spirituality. This is definitely a book that is going to remove the rose colored glasses. It explored the myriad ways Native Americans have been repressed, harmed, marginalized, exploited, and murdered. It also outlines and explains many spiritual practices, why they are important, and how non-natives can be respectful. Highly recommend this book if you're interested in expanding your knowledge about Native American cultures.
July 13, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group - Wellfleet Press for providing an eARC copy of Native American Spiritualism.
A really insightful novel of the First Nations in the most respectful way. It was nice to learn their stories, their culture, and I loved the inclusion of the little things that encouraged the reader to be mindful.
A really insightful novel of the First Nations in the most respectful way. It was nice to learn their stories, their culture, and I loved the inclusion of the little things that encouraged the reader to be mindful.
August 2, 2023
A very informative look into the spiritual practices of Native Americans. The author does a good job of explaining the religious beliefs of a number of different Native American groups. He approaches each section with respectful insights and descriptions. He also gives examples of how non-Native people can also absorb the teachings and beliefs without disrespectful appropriation.
September 4, 2023
An examination of several Native American tribes traditions, ceremonies, and belief systems puts a spotlight on the similarities -and more importantly - the differences between them. The difference between appreciation and appropriation is also brought to light.
July 10, 2023
This is a great guide to Native American Spiritualism. It provides information on how to respectfully learn and understand Native American culture without appropriating the Native culture.
August 2, 2024
Very informative, learned a lot and looking to learn more
September 17, 2024
Heavy on commentary, light on substance.
March 1, 2025
Just ok to me.
May 22, 2025
The soul would have no rainbow if the eyes had no tears.
August 15, 2023
Wonderful and fascinating. Easy to consume and understand. Felt like an inspirational and calming journey.
*Temporary access e-copy received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
*Temporary access e-copy received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews