What is a Paqo Kuna? (Part 2)

With this strong synchronicity vibrating throughout my entire body, I stood up from the chair I had been reading my book in, feeling an exhilarating rush of energy coursing through me. The atmosphere in the room seemed to shift as I resolved to head out on a late-night walk, the cool night air calling to me with an irresistible allure. As I stepped outside, the world around me was enveloped in a serene stillness, punctuated only by the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant hum of the city. The internal dialogue that night was a swirling cacophony of questions, each one more pressing than the last. How could the story I have told my son, filled with lessons of courage and resilience, resonate so profoundly with the ancient shamanic story I had recently encountered? What was it about this connection that felt so deeply personal and significant? Why does it seem like something is constantly tapping me on the shoulder, whispering in my ear, guiding me through life, and putting people in my path with messages that feel meticulously tailored for me at this precise moment in time? The words of one of these pivotal individuals, whom I had met two years earlier, kept echoing in my mind like a mantra: "when the student is ready, the teacher arrives." From my perspective, school was definitely in session, and I was eager to learn.

Not long after this fateful evening, another friend, aware of my burgeoning interest in spiritual exploration, forwarded me a promotion for an upcoming introductory weekend workshop being conducted by a Peruvian-trained shaman. What are the odds of such a coincidence? It felt as if the universe was conspiring to align my path with this opportunity. Needless to say, I wasn't the least bit surprised by this serendipitous turn of events. In fact, if this hadn't occurred, I would have been left wondering why the universe had chosen to remain silent during such a crucial period of my awakening. The description of the content for the weekend workshop caught my imagination and ignited a spark of curiosity within me. I decided I was in, feeling an irresistible pull, drawn like metal to a magnet, as if the very fabric of my being was urging me to embark on this journey of discovery. The prospect of learning from a shaman, someone who had traversed the mystical landscapes of ancient wisdom and healing practices, filled me with a profound sense of anticipation. I could already envision the transformative experiences that awaited me, and I felt a deep yearning to delve into the teachings that would undoubtedly enrich my understanding of both me and the world around me.

Honestly, within the first hour of the initial night of this enlightening discussion, I felt an undeniable pull towards accepting the invitation to embark on a transformative year-long apprenticeship in the rich and intricate world of Peruvian shamanism. This program was not just a casual endeavor; it required a significant commitment of time and energy. Essentially, it entailed dedicating one full weekend each month, starting on a Friday evening and culminating late on Sunday afternoon, during which we would fully immerse ourselves in the ancient and revered traditions of the Q'ero people, who are direct descendants of the mighty Incas. This immersion was not merely academic; it was a profound journey into a way of life that has been preserved and cherished for generations.

The shamans within this vibrant community are referred to as Paqos, and their essential role is to act as mediators between the human realm, the natural world, and the vast spirit world that surrounds us. The teachings and practices of the Paqos are deeply rooted in respect for nature and the interconnectedness of all living beings. Within this spiritual hierarchy, there exist three distinct levels among the Paqos, each with its own unique responsibilities and spiritual significance:

• Pampa Mesayoq: These are the earth ritual specialists who are primarily focused on healing practices within their communities. They work tirelessly to foster and enhance relationships with Pachamama, the Earth Mother, who is revered in Andean cosmology as a nurturing and life-giving force. Their rituals often involve offerings and ceremonies that honor the land and promote balance and harmony within the community.

• Alto Mesayoq: This level represents the mystical specialists who have undergone significant spiritual journeys, often marked by profound experiences such as being struck by lightning or other transformative events. These individuals achieve higher levels of initiation, which grants them a deeper connection and attunement to the apus (mountain spirits) and other high spirits. Their role is crucial in guiding others on their spiritual paths and facilitating deeper connections with the divine.

• Kuraq Akulleq: The elders of the Paqo community, known as Kuraq Akulleq, are highly respected figures who possess universal or supra-regional spiritual potency. They are often regarded as wisdom keepers and ceremonial leaders, holding a wealth of knowledge about the traditions, rituals, and spiritual practices of the Andean people. Their guidance is invaluable, as they help to preserve the teachings and ensure the continuity of these ancient practices.

In essence, the paqo kuna serves multiple roles: healer, mediator, ritual specialist, and wisdom keeper. They are central to the continuity and thriving of Andean spiritual traditions, ensuring that the teachings of their ancestors are passed down through generations. My journey through this apprenticeship culminated in a significant milestone: I was blessed with the title of Alto Mesayoq. This honor was not something I claimed for myself; rather, it was a decision made by the shaman who transmitted the knowledge to me during my training. At the conclusion of the program, the shaman shared with me the profound recognition of the level I had achieved, marking a pivotal moment in my spiritual development.

This apprenticeship not only deepened my understanding of Andean cosmology but also transformed my perception of healing, community, and my own place within the intricate web of life. It opened my eyes to the sacredness of nature and the importance of maintaining a harmonious relationship with the world around us. The teachings I received from my mentors and the experiences I shared with my fellow apprentices have left an indelible mark on my soul, guiding me as I continue my journey in this life and beyond.

The training was structured to be an experiential process in which apprentices delve deeply into the rich tapestry of Andean cosmology, ritual techniques, and energetic healing practices. This immersive journey culminates in a series of profound initiations known as "karpays," which serve as significant milestones that mark progress along their unique spiritual paths. The shamans who impart this wisdom are revered as the "wisdom-keepers" of their culture, entrusted with the sacred responsibility of transmitting teachings through both oral traditions and practical demonstrations. These teachings encompass a wide array of knowledge that intricately weaves together elements of Inca Cosmology, the utilization of ceremonial tools, and the meticulous construction of a personal mesa, which is a sacred bundle of power objects. Apprentices engage in extensive learning about various cleansing and healing rituals, as well as the essential practice of communicating with the three worlds—upper, middle, and lower—each representing different realms of existence and consciousness. A crucial aspect of this training involves the shaman utilizing coca leaf divination to assess the apprentice's readiness and to seek spiritual permission to embark on this transformative path.

The series of initiations referenced, known as "karpays," are pivotal in the training process. They are as follows:

• Munay Karpay (Opening of the Heart): This first initiation is centered on the profound task of opening the energetic heart center, known as Munay. This foundational step is essential as it lays the groundwork for deeper energetic work and facilitates the apprentice's ability to connect with their own emotions and the energies around them.

• Yachay Karpay (Awakening Higher Knowledge): The second initiation focuses on developing spiritual wisdom and enhancing intuitive faculties. This stage encourages apprentices to tap into their innate knowledge and cultivate a deeper understanding of the universe and their place within it.

• Llankay Karpay (Embodied Service): The third initiation emphasizes the integration of knowledge and heart into sacred action. This initiation aligns the apprentice's life and service with Andean values, fostering a sense of responsibility and commitment to the community and the earth.

  
  

I mentioned that this training is experientially based, which is a fundamental aspect of the learning process. The initiations listed above are received in ritual settings that are often chosen for their sacred significance, such as powerful mountains known as apus or other notable power places. These rituals frequently involve offerings, prayers, and specific transmission rites that deepen the connection between the apprentice and the spiritual realm. During my own training, which took place in the serene landscapes of Northeast Ohio, we fully embraced the natural beauty of our surroundings. We utilized the tranquil waters of Lake Erie, explored the lush local forests, and visited parks and waterfalls that served as perfect backdrops for our practices. Additionally, we had the unique opportunity to spend time in deep underground cavern systems, which added another layer of depth to our experiences. We also ventured to several sacred sites where we practiced healing and conducted ceremonies with our mesas and tools, further enhancing our connection to the land and its energies. Overarching all aspects of the training is the principle of ayni, which embodies the concept of reciprocity. This principle emphasizes the importance of honoring the wisdom of nature, the ancestors, and the community, creating a harmonious balance between giving and receiving throughout the journey.

Of note, as we moved through this profound and transformative shamanic journey, upon completion of each initiation, we were recognized not merely by certification but also through a deep acknowledgment within the tradition itself. This recognition granted us the sacred permission to practice the corresponding rituals and healing techniques that are integral to the shamanic path. Each initiation was a significant milestone, marking our growth and understanding as we delved deeper into the mysteries of the universe and our place within it. Ultimately, this culminated in the acceptance of the title Paqo Kuna, which signifies a deep connection to both the lineage of our shamanic teacher and the natural world around us. This title was not just a name; it represented the result of an integrative journey that encompassed extensive study, profound personal transformation, dedicated ritual practice, and significant initiation experiences. Each step we took connected us to the sacred powers of the Andean tradition, weaving a tapestry of spiritual significance that enriched our lives and the lives of those we would later serve.

Almost ten years removed from those transformative initiations, I have had the immense privilege of sharing this invaluable knowledge with many individuals in the community I live in. I consider it a sacred honor to work in the capacity of a healer, as it allows me to contribute positively to the lives of others. The name that appears on my website, which has become synonymous with my practice, did not originate from my own thoughts or aspirations. Instead, it was bestowed upon me by one of my spiritual mentors, who appeared to me during my previously mentioned journey. This mentor, along with many other guiding figures, showed up at the right time, delivering the right messages and providing tremendous support throughout my path. At the completion of my apprenticeship, she declared with conviction that I was the "Urban Shaman." This title resonated deeply within me and has since stuck, encapsulating my role and the unique approach I take in my healing work.

Throughout this ten-year path of service, I have engaged with countless individuals, assisting them in rebalancing their personal energies. Many have come to me seeking help because the challenges and vagaries of earthly existence had led to their energies becoming diffused and dissonant. I have performed sacred rituals specifically designed to restore people’s souls to a state of wholeness, particularly after traumatic events that caused fragmentation, a loss of purpose, and feelings of incompleteness. Additionally, I have worked diligently to clear living spaces of undesirable entities—those spirits that needed assistance in moving on to a new location or transitioning from this life to the next. Each time I have been called upon to perform these sacred acts, I have felt the presence of those who have gone before me, their spirits surrounding me with echoes of their dedication and wisdom. This connection cloaks me with the necessary strength and insight to heal those I am called to serve, acting as an intermediary between the human community and the spiritual realm. It is a role I embrace with humility and gratitude, knowing that I am part of a larger continuum of healing and transformation.