Shamanism in Peru

Shamanism , Shamans and Curanderos
 

Shamanism is an ancient spiritual art in which the Shaman connects with non physical plane(s) of existence including some of the beings which inhabit such planes. They do so using a variety of methods including the ingestion of psychoactive substances usually from plants.
 

In South America the Ayahuasca/Chacruna brew is the principle method though there are many other sacred plants.

Shamans
Generally men and women at an early age are noticed by an existing Shaman and are assisted to undergo rigorous training, often over a considerable time. The most gifted tend to be from families who have been  either practising shamanism or have shown natural mystical abilities for generations. The training is rigorous and unlikely to be undertaken in full by many Westerners.
 
Shamans- the good the bad and ...
Be aware, according to Shamans we have questioned and trust, about fifty percent of practitioners eventually become untrustworthy, particularly with regard to preying on western women.  Please bear this in mind when choosing your ayahuasca retreat.
 

Curanderos
These are Shamen who have learnt much about the healing plants which they can use in the physical and spiritual planes.