Shamanasana combines the ancient traditions of yoga and shamanism to create a healing synergy between self-awareness and spiritual guidance. Created by Nancy McCaochan, Shamanasana encourages us to be aware of the bhava, or feeling state of each asana (yoga pose) as we breathe our way from one to another. Working also with the chakras, Shamanasana awakens us to our spiritual heart, our astral body, and the earth energies that surround us.

Asana (posture), kriya (action), mantra (sound), mudra (sacred hand gestures), pranayama (breathwork), and visualization connect us deeply to body, mind, and spirit. The staccato beat of the ceremonial drum further takes us deep into the regions of inner space.

Shamanasana is a transformative process that alters us in subtly powerful ways. It brings subconscious impulses to light and helps us see and either use or let go of the emotional, energetic, and symbolic patterns that shape our minds and bodies. The practice also reintegrates fragmented aspects of our Selves, so that we may walk our earthly path with courage, grace, and balance.

The real gift of shamanasana though is that it cultivates both inner peace and a sense of wonder. Shamanasana brings us into the presence of universal loving kindness and situates our awareness within the unified field of life. It helps us hear the inner voices that ever prompt us toward becoming whole.