Abstract
This presentation explores how Korean shamanism, one of the world’s oldest spiritual traditions, can complement modern Western medicine and scientific practices. As the first European initiated into Korean shamanism, I have developed a unique approach that integrates ancestral wisdom with evidence-based methods. Through collaboration with doctors, therapists, and scientists, my work highlights the interdisciplinary potential of shamanic practices in addressing mental, emotional, and physical well-being. This presentation will discuss key elements of Korean shamanism, including ancestral communication, ceremonial healing, and altered states of consciousness, and how these practices can be adapted to support modern therapeutic frameworks. Participants will learn how shamanism can enhance the fields of medicine, psychology, and wellness, offering tools for holistic healing that transcend cultural boundaries. Practical applications of these concepts will also be explored, including case studies demonstrating how shamanic rituals and techniques can foster emotional clarity, relieve psychological stress, and promote overall health. The session aims to provide participants with new insights into how ancient traditions can inform and transform contemporary approaches to healing. By bridging the gap between spirituality, science & western medicine, this presentation offers a valuable opportunity to explore the enduring relevance of ancestral practices in today’s interconnected world and their potential to create impactful changes in modern health paradigms. This session will leave attendees with a deeper understanding of the transformative power of Korean shamanism and shamanism and its role in global wellness initiatives.
Presenters
Andrea KalffShaman, Institut zur Verbreitung des koranischen Schamanismus, Bayern, Germany
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
2025 Special Focus—Fragile Meanings: Vulnerability in the Study of Religions and Spirituality
KEYWORDS
Korean Shamanism, Ancient Traditions, Modern Medicine, Ancestral Healing, Evidence-Base Cosmopolitan