I’ve recently begun reading The Celtic Shaman by John Matthews, an excellent read so far. I’ve appreciated John and Caitlin Matthews’ work for some time already but still have never fully delved into the world of Celtic shamanism. I’ve felt it tugging at me for a long time. My ancestral roots come from the Emerald Isle. In my spirit i’ve always had a longing to get back there. I strongly feel now is the time.

The beginning of the shaman’s journey is most difficult. In the dark cave of the unconscious i will have to face my other selves. My weaker selves, my shadows and fears will stand before me. The meditation may need to be done several times to bring all the ugliest aspects of myself to the surface. I will have to face all of my limiting and self-deceiving selves as well. I assume this will be emotionally painful, and i do not look forward to it. I’ve continued reading while working up the courage to begin.

The first step is deciding when would be the best time and place for my daily meditation. With the house full of children, and the little free time i have this is something that requires a bit of planning for me. As far as materials and tools go i need two journals to start. One to record my observations after journeying and one to begin recording my dreams after waking. I would also like to buy some special incense and a couple of candles to do a self dedication ritual before venturing out on my new path. Eventually i will also need to acquire a hand drum of some sort or a drum cd i can play during some of my journeying.

One tool i appreciate already having and have worked with a bit in the past is John Matthews’ Celtic Oracle. Unlike most other oracles and tarot decks this tool is more geared towards exploring the inner worlds of the Celtic shaman than merely being a divining tool. The main purpose of the deck is for use in pathworking, meditation, and dream work. I imagine i’ll be utilizing it quite a bit after the initial self work i need to start with.

I’ll be posting updates on my progress as i have time.