In the rising of the sun, we have the opportunity for new beginnings each day
Many people have transformational experiences in life which can set them on a new path and open them up to a whole new way of seeing their life. There are many stories of people having spiritual awakenings, or episodes of turmoil which change their life forever. Another term that captures this is "The Heroes Journey". To explain this in short, life can put us through incredibly challenging experiences and we can meet with our deepest and darkest emotions. This may be a time when we feel that we can't take much more loss, trauma or pain in life and it gives us the opportunity to recreate ourselves. When we use this time to transform, and seek support and guidance, we develop tremendous fortitude, purpose and strength.
If you can relate to anything we have to share in this blog, Michael would love to hear from you. Or if you know of anyone who is challenged with a transformational experience in life, don't let them suffer in silence. It is very important to receive the support of community and mentors in times of challenge.
MICHAEL’S STORY
It’s been nearly ten years now since my ‘spiritual awakening’. It took place in a very remote part of the Australian outback. I had been travelling through the country with a small group for nearly two weeks and each night I would sleep on a simple swag under the stars.
My beliefs till this point had been gathered through a very clinical, scientific lens. Science had the answers to most things I thought, and this included a rational, logical, interpretation of spirituality, religions and some of those bigger questions we ask ourselves throughout life.
Well on a most special, magical night, my world was turned upside down. Unbeknown to us we had camped within an ancient Aboriginal site. Simply, on this night, the spirits of this land came to me, moved through me, blessed me, and changed my life. It was terrifying at times as this process took many hours but when a voice finally spoke to me and said, “ It’s over, all is well, all is safe Michael” I was filled with an overwhelming sense of love and absolute ecstasy. A knowing I had received a most beautiful gift.
Since that night my life has been a journey of learning about myself and growth. Naturally there have been many challenges along the way but when I take the time to be still and I cast my thoughts back to that night, I recharge and remember how blessed I have been.
My spiritual practice has always been drawn to what could be described as a traditional, ancient way of being. It goes back to tribal ways, when communities were served by healers, Ngangkeres, teachers, storytellers. Those who’s role it was to look after the spiritual and physical wellbeing of the community, through council with the spiritual realms. To me it is the most pure, natural way of being in spiritual service to myself and to others. It is a reflection of nature itself. With humility and dignity, and as a conduit to a greater source.
So early in my journey I began to study traditional healing and ceremonies. I enrolled in a Shamanic practice course. I quickly found that this type of healing and study worked for me. I learnt to call upon the inner voice and intuition. It wasn’t about the books so much, rather it’s about listening deeply and being open to messages and support from spirit when performing journey work , ceremonies and healing.
I now wish to share my love of healing with others by offering my services to clients whom are open to listening and healing both the body and soul. After all, the two are one. This can bring about a true awareness of ourselves, our individual power, and in time, our ability to heal ourselves.
I have continued my studies since those early days, and have recently added Shamanic breathwork to my practice. I know my studies will continue forever. I know I will listen and take with me what feels right. I am also committed to drawing on and sharing the spirituality of this land and it’s wonderful traditional custodians. I do this with the greatest respect. To me the indigenous people of Australia have the most unique connection to all worlds. They have abundant knowledge and understanding of these worlds. An understanding that has been handed down through so many generations, for tens of thousands of years. They are the oldest living culture in the world and their knowledge must continue rather that be lost with time.
I also found myself drawn to books on traditional healing and the ways of healers. It truly is the great mystery that fascinates me. It is so liberating to look past the craziness of this world and to feel a connection to something greater. This feeling gives me strength.
I have a deep passion for ceremony. We currently hold regular Sweat ceremonies in Harvey WA and I now look forward to creating a venue in Fremantle where people can come and have a platform for community and regular ceremonial practice.
Both Simone and I wish to share our passion for spirituality, ceremonies and healing with others. Through our business ‘Soul Nurturing’ we wish to build community and offer our unique style of healing and nurturing.
We look forward to meeting you and sharing the journey.
Blessings, Michael.