Sjamanistisk Forbund in Norway is taking a significant step towards internationalisation by opening its renowned ceremonial leader training to Scandinavian and Norwegian-speaking participants from other countries. This initiative marks an exciting development in the federation's work to spread shamanic practice and knowledge beyond Norway's borders. Applications open on 1 October.
Expansion of the ceremonial leader training
Sjamanistisk Forbund has decided to expand its admission criteria for the ceremonial leader training. From the next intake onwards, the programme will be open to:
Scandinavian citizens
People from other countries who have a command of Norwegian, Danish or Swedish
This measure opens the way for a richer exchange of ideas and practices within the Nordic shamanic tradition.
Conditions for participation
Although the training is now available to a broader audience, it is important to note some key conditions:
Language requirement: Participants must have good knowledge of either Norwegian, Danish or Swedish in order to follow the teaching.
Self-financing: International participants must cover the costs related to travel and accommodation in connection with the training themselves.
Commitment to establishment: Participants from other countries are expected to contribute actively to establishing shamanic federations in their respective home countries.
A long-term vision of expansion
Sjamanistisk Forbund sees this initiative as a first step towards a broader international presence. The goal is to support the establishment of sister organisations in other countries, particularly in Scandinavia.
Potential for reimbursement
To encourage this work, the federation has opened up an interesting opportunity:
If a shamanic federation is established in a participant's home country, the expenses related to the training can potentially be reimbursed.
This is, however, dependent on the newly established federation achieving stable financing, which can take several years.
Significance for shamanic practice in the Nordic region
This expansion of the ceremonial leader training has several important implications:
Cultural exchange: Greater diversity among participants will enrich shamanic practice with new perspectives and experiences.
Network-building: International participants will be able to create valuable connections across national borders.
Standardisation of practice: A shared training can help to establish more uniform standards for shamanic practice in the Nordic region.
Challenges and opportunities
While this initiative opens up exciting opportunities, it also brings some challenges:
Language barriers: Even though participants are expected to have good language skills, nuances in shamanic terminology may present challenges.
Cultural differences: Different national contexts may affect how shamanic practice is interpreted and implemented. It is desirable that, over time, practitioners should develop their own ceremonies adapted to their country's pantheon.
Logistical considerations: Coordinating international participants will require greater administrative effort on the federation's part.
The way forward
Sjamanistisk Forbund sees this expansion as an important milestone in its work to promote shamanic practice in the Nordic region and beyond. By opening the doors to international participants, the federation hopes to:
Strengthen the Nordic shamanic movement
Promote intercultural understanding and cooperation
Lay the foundation for a more extensive international presence
This initiative represents an exciting opportunity for the federation to extend its influence and enrich its practice through new perspectives and experiences.
