Shamanic Experience and Healing

Bocas del Toro (Panama)

3-4 January 2026

Basic Workshop
taught by Nello Ceccon

Shamanism is the oldest system of knowledge and healing known to humankind.

A common characteristic of every shaman is a spiritual journey into a reality other than that perceived with the normal senses (non-ordinary reality). Shamanic methods use various percussion instruments to alter the state of consciousness and thus make this experience possible. Through the journey, the shaman accesses a hidden universe where he receives revelations and meets allied spirits in the form of animals (power animals) and spiritual teachers (sages, ancestors, deities). From these spirits he obtains the knowledge and power to help and heal himself, others and the environment around him.

The purpose of the Basic Workshop is to provide an introduction to the basic methods of shamanism. Guided by the rhythm of the drum, participants experience a change in state of consciousness and learn to travel, like shamans, into the non-ordinary reality of the spiritual world (Lower and Upper Worlds). In their travels, they meet the Power Animal and a Spiritual Teacher from whom they get help, advice and wisdom about problems in their lives.

The course is based on the methodology of Michael Harner, the American anthropologist whose research and teaching has made this ancient system of practices relevant again, condensing its essential elements and re-proposing them in terms more accessible to us (an approach he calls core shamanism).

Dr. Nello Ceccon

Founder of the Study Center for Shamanism, has been practicing shamanism for more 20  years. He has studied with the anthropologist Dr. Michael Harner, Sandra Ingerman, and other native shamans in North, Central, and South America. Since 2002 and until 2022 he has been Faculty Member of The Foundation for Shamanic Studies, and is accredited by Sandra Ingerman (www.shamanicteachers.com) Applies shamanism for healing in people, business, and creativity.

He teaches and lectures in Italy, Europe, America and Asia.

He is author of the book La Creazione Sciamanica (Cerchio della Luna, 2006)

Recommended books:

• The Way of the Shaman By Michael Harner, Publisher HarperOne

• Shamanic Journeying: A Beginner's Guide, by Sandra Ingerman, Publisher  ‎ Sounds True