Howard and Elsa have been studying and practicing
Shamanism since 1983 and during that time
have realised that it is more a remembering,
an ancient knowing, rather than a learning.
Initiation into the way of the Shaman began
for Elsa with total paralysis following polio
at 11 years of age. She had a near death experience
at this time. For 3 years she was in a wheelchair
unable to walk. Gradually, with the help of
guides and teachers from spirit, she managed
to walk and overcome many other obstacles.
These years of struggle have given her a compassion
for all people and a desire to work with those
who need support and help.
Howard was born in China. His opening began
as a 9 year old sent to a school in Ireland.
The school was organised by his first Shamanic
teacher. Much time was set aside for attunement
with nature. It was at this time he opened
to his passion for nature and everything natural.
He was able to sit quietly in a beautiful,
ancient Celtic land, communicating eye to
eye with the various animals and birds that
approached him. This gave him a deep understanding
of all things natural around him.
Howard
and Elsa have been facilitating residential
and non-residential Warrior in the Heart courses
since 1994 and regard seeing the beautiful
journey people are taking into themselves
as a gift. Having discovered a passion for
living through Shamanism, they simply want
to share what they know, and help others to
empower themselves.
Their
work within the NHS since 1992 using Acupuncture,
Shiatsu and Deep Relaxation Techniques, has
been a pioneering effort, working for the
health and well-being of all. Their specific
areas of expertise are in addiction and mental
health.
"Many
years ago when we first spent time living
in Glastonbury, we were commuting to London
to work in Hospitals and run Shamanic Workshops.
Our dream was to move to Glastonbury and pass
our work in the NHS in London onto others.
"It
hasn't worked out that way and for some reason
we are still living in two places and commuting
between London and Glastonbury. We know nothing
happens by chance, and are aware that there
is a very good reason for this but we havent
been told the whole story yet.
"Over this time whilst in Glastonbury
our living accommodation has changed from
a conventional flat in town to a caravan,
which we love, it feels more like living with
nature and within nature. We are surrounded
by a grove of trees, and an array of beautiful
birds visit us daily and the moors are just
round the corner. Perfect."
Howard
& Elsa are both UK Directors of the Society
for Shamanic Practitioners.www.shamansociety.org
Elsa
is a Director of The Isle of Avalon Foundation,
Glastonbury an Educational Not for Profit
Company dedicated to promoting Spiritual growth.
www.isleofavalonfoundation.com
"The Shamanic Way has given us much joy,
wise counsel and passion for life".
