John Mabry, a United Church of Christ pastor and author, dives into the intersection of shamanism and Christianity. He shares insights from his book, exploring how shamanic practices can lead to wholeness and healing. John discusses his transformative shamanic journey and the significance of his spirit animal, the panther. He emphasizes the distinction between trust and belief in spirituality and the importance of imagination in forming connections with the spiritual world. Join him as he navigates through the complexities of faith and personal experience.
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Mold and Trauma
John Mabry developed chemical and food sensitivities after living in a mold-infested house while experiencing emotional trauma.
He's been working on rewiring his brain through neuroplasticity and mindfulness practices.
insights INSIGHT
Negativity Bias
Negativity bias is hardwired into our brains for survival, causing negative thoughts to stick while positive ones slide off.
Healing requires actively noticing and savoring the good while letting go of the negative.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Introduction to Shamanism
John's therapist, a shamanic practitioner, suggested a shamanic journey to help him with major life discernments.
This powerful experience introduced him to shamanism.
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The New Brain Science of Contentment, Calm, and Confidence
Rick Hanson
In 'Hardwiring Happiness,' Dr. Rick Hanson explains how the brain's ancient survival mechanism makes it more adept at learning from negative experiences than positive ones. He introduces a simple method using everyday experiences to build new neural structures filled with happiness, love, confidence, and peace. Dr. Hanson's four-step HEAL method (Have, Enrich, Absorb, Link) helps readers to counterbalance the brain's negativity bias, making contentment and resilience the new normal. This approach involves focusing on positive experiences, absorbing their good feelings, and linking them to other positive experiences to override negative ones, thereby transforming the brain into a refuge of calm and happiness[1][3][5].
The will to believe
William James
In 'The Will to Believe,' William James defends the idea that, in certain cases, it is rational to adopt a belief without prior evidence of its truth. The central essay argues that faith can be justified even in the absence of evidence, particularly in matters of religious belief. James also discusses other philosophical topics such as causality, free will, and the importance of individual action in society. The book is part of 'The Works of William James' series and includes an introduction by Edward H. Madden[2][4].
Book of Job
Stephen Mitchell
The Book of Job is an Old Testament book that explores themes of suffering, faith, and the nature of God. It tells the story of Job, a righteous man who endures immense suffering despite his piety. The book features dialogues between Job and his friends, who attempt to explain his suffering, and between Job and God. It raises profound questions about the relationship between God and humanity, the problem of evil, and the meaning of life. The Book of Job is considered a literary masterpiece, known for its poetic language and philosophical depth. It remains a source of reflection and inspiration for readers grappling with the complexities of faith and suffering.
Tao te ching
Laozi
The Tao Te Ching is a central text in Taoist philosophy and religion. It consists of 81 brief chapters or sections that discuss the nature of the Tao, which is described as the source and ideal of all existence. The text emphasizes living in harmony with nature, the importance of simplicity, humility, and the interconnectedness of all things. It critiques unnatural actions and social activism based on abstract moralism, advocating for a life of 'nonaction' (wu wei) and spontaneity. The text has been highly influential in Chinese philosophy and has been translated numerous times, making it one of the most translated texts in world literature[2][3][4].
Theology of Romantic Love
Theology of Romantic Love
Charles Williams
A Christian Walks in the Footsteps of the Buddha
John Mabry
This book is part travelogue, part history lesson, and part comparative theological reflection. It chronicles John Mabry's journey to the most significant sites of the Buddha's life, reflecting on both Buddhist and Christian teachings. The book provides a balanced view of both religions, highlighting their similarities and differences, and offers insights into the human religious quest.
Soul Journeys
Katrina Leathers
Daniel L. Prechtel
John Mabry
This book introduces readers to Christian spirituality and Core Shamanism, highlighting their similarities and differences. It explores Christian spiritual practices for healing and discernment, Core Shamanism's healing methods, and the role of helping spirits in both traditions. The authors provide practical wisdom for integrating these spiritual practices into daily life.
John Mabry is a United Church of Christ pastor and is the Director of the Spiritual Direction Program at Chaplaincy Institute. He is the lead singer of 2 bands in the Bay area and is the author of many novels and books on theology, spirituality, and spiritual guidance.
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In This Interview, John Mabry and I Discuss Shamanism, Spirituality, and …
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