THE WISDOM OF THE RUNES

Shamans use many methods of divination and wisdom-access, and I have been trained in the use of crystals, casting sets and dream work. Each of these methods involve entering a Shamanic state of consciousness and respectfully approaching the keeper of the knowledge. They are thus semi-ecstatic methods. I go into a light trance and while I remember everything that goes on, I am not quite myself, and the messages I relay are from the world of the spirits. There is a perfomative aspect to the work. I rattle and move and it's a bit noisy and fun to watch.

I have settled on Runes as the best method for me, after some years of working with them on and off. I am now on my second set of home made Rune staves. The making and consecrating of the Rune staves involved several rituals and took its own time.

The Runes are an ancient magical alphabet used in Northern European cultures. I use the Elder Futhark which is Norse in origin. The Norse God Odin hung on a tree for nine days and nine nights and sacrificed himself to himself, in order to bring us the Runes. This was in truth a Shamanic ordeal. However it was the Goddess Freya who taught him how to use them. Rune wisdom in old Norse culture is typically female. It is a careful, deep wisdom that is often obtained the hard way. Rune reading has been an honorable discipline for me.

While the Runes have a specific cultural history, they are not culture-specific. I see no reason why anyone from any culture might not use them, in the same way that I may use the I Ching for example. They happen to suit me. Some Runes have been used by contemporary Neo-Fascists, and I abhor this and see it as a mean spirited travesty. My research shows no racism among the medieval Norse people (other that the usual human stupidity, I suppose!). 

I offer readings in Shamanic Rune wisdom. We formulate a question together, and I need not know what it is. I perform a ritual, and throw the Rune staves onto a white cloth. I am then guided to pick three, and to interpret them. I also offer bindrunes - where Runes are artistically combined in a talisman or charm for protection or guidance. I work only with transcendent and compassionate spirits. I am kind and honest, and will honour your privacy and wellbeing.

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