After several people have asked, we have finally found an opportunity to come to Bodø
Sjamanistisk Forbund invites you to an exciting weekend filled with insight, experiences, and fellowship in Bodø on 10 and 11 January. This is a unique opportunity for anyone curious about shamanism or wishing to delve deeper into the cultural heritage we have here in the north. Best of all, it is free. Bring a friend and replenish both your knowledge and your spiritual nourishment. We guarantee lowered shoulders and a light mind.
Information evening at the Grill Cabin
The weekend begins with an informative and experiential evening on Friday 10 January at the Grill Cabin in Bratten activity park. This cosy and scenic location provides the perfect setting for exploring the mysteries of shamanism.
Programme for the evening
Introduction to shamanism and Sjamanistisk Forbund
Drum journey
A taste of ceremony
Social gathering around the fire
We conclude the evening with reflection and conversation, where you will have the opportunity to share your experiences.
Chaga ceremony 11 January
On Friday 11 January, participants will have the opportunity to experience a unique chaga ceremony. Chaga, also known as the chaga fungus, is a mushroom that grows on birch trees and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.
About the chaga ceremony
The chaga ceremony is a sacred and transformative experience. Chaga is a mushroom with long traditions here in the north and is in itself known to be health-giving. It is not hallucinogenic, but has an uplifting effect on mind and body. In a ceremonial context, you will meet the chaga spirit in what many would describe as a deeply healing ceremony.
Kyrre, who together with Gunnar will lead the ceremony, is the one who conceived this ceremony and later introduced it to the shamanic community. He himself describes the story of how the ceremony was created as follows:
How did the chaga ceremony come to be?
"When I first came across chaga around 2004, it had largely fallen out of use on the Norwegian side of Sápmi. I began to discuss and ask about chaga with many people, especially within the Sami community. This led to a calling for me and others to reintroduce chaga into the Sami community. Later I learned that the use of chaga was still practised on the Russian side of Sápmi.
Through drinking chaga tea regularly, I discovered that it strengthens spiritual gifts such as psychic powers, clairaudience, and empathic abilities. And I began to understand that chaga must have been used ceremonially. Historical traces were found in Nenets traditions, where it was used in healing rituals, and among the Khanty, who used it as incense in rituals.
I consulted a Sami noaidi from Loppa in Finnmark, who offered to help facilitate a ceremony to ask the chaga spirit how one might carry out a chaga ceremony.
The chaga ceremony came into being in 2008 during a three-day ceremony in Finnmark. The ceremony was first performed publicly in 2010 at the Isogaisa shaman festival. This ceremony was also released so that anyone who wished could perform it, as long as they do not charge money for it.
The ceremony is led by experienced ceremony leaders who together weave a safe healing space for you to take part in. If you take antibiotics, blood pressure medication, or have diabetes, it would be helpful if you informed us of this.
Why take part?
This weekend is a rare opportunity to:
Gain first-hand experience with shamanic practices
Experience an authentic chaga ceremony
Meet like-minded people and expand your network
Learn from experienced practitioners in Sjamanistisk Forbund
Explore an alternative approach to spirituality and self-development
For whom?
The events are open to everyone, regardless of background or experience with shamanism. Whether you are an experienced practitioner or simply curious, you are warmly welcome to take part.
Practical information
Dates:
Information evening: Friday 10 January 19:30
Chaga ceremony: Saturday 11 January 15:00
Location: The Grill Cabin, Bratten activity park, Bodø
Preparations
Dress warmly and comfortably, but in layers that you can take off
Bring your own cup
Bring a sitting mat or cushion for the drum journey and the ceremony
Feel free to bring a notebook for reflections
Contact information
For more information or questions, contact: Gunnar Steinholm, tel. 488 66 670
Do not miss this unique opportunity to explore the world of shamanism and experience an authentic chaga ceremony in Bodø's beautiful surroundings. Come and become part of a weekend filled with insight, experiences, and fellowship!
Presentation of the weekend's hosts
Gunnar Steinholm
Gunnar Steinholm is an experienced ceremony leader trained at Sjamanistisk Forbund and is the one leading the information evening. With a background in the armed forces and teaching, he brings valuable experience and insight to the participants.
In addition to being a course leader, Gunnar is also known for making shaman drums, which is an important part of shamanic practice. His work with healing and his Sami roots give him a deep understanding of the traditional practices that underlie shamanism.
Gunnar also has training as a hypnotherapist and holds foundational studies in psychology, which further enriches his approach to shamanic work. His combination of practical experience and theoretical knowledge makes him an inspiring host for the weekend's events.
Kyrre Gram Franck
Kyrre Franck, founder of Sjamanistisk Forbund in Norway, is a central figure in the Norwegian shamanic community. With a North Sami background, he has a deep connection to nature and shamanic practices. In 2012 he established the association to promote and preserve shamanic traditions in modern times.
His vision is to adapt shamanic traditions to today's society, with respect for indigenous cultures. Through ceremonies, workshops, and lectures, he has raised awareness of shamanism in Norway. Known for his inclusive approach, Franck sees shamanism as a way of life that promotes balance and respect for all living beings.
Maria Seivaag
Is the weekend's third host and our local alibi. Maria Seivaag, originally from Bodø, has followed a unique spiritual path since childhood. She has a strong connection to nature and has gained experience from various practices. For many years Maria has lived according to shamanic conviction. She is available to assist with questions or guidance regarding the information evening and the chaga ceremony, which are organised by Sjamanistisk Forbund. To contact Maria, you can call mobile number 41145554. Maria looks forward to helping those interested find their way to the event's location.
