Shamanic Retreat in Scotland with Nepalese Shaman - UK Retreat

The Nagas are the guardians and keepers of the Water and Earth realms. In the same way, Garuda, the Regal Eagle or Harul-Gadul, a mythical bird-like deity with a human body and bird's wings and beak, is considered the guardian and caretaker of the in-between Space, Aakash. 

The Garuda deity plays a vital role in the cultural, political, and religious spheres of many Asian countries today. However, how this mythical creature is depicted differs depending on the country and the cultural context. As well as being part of Nepali Shamanism, Garuda healing rituals are also performed within the geographically adjacent religions of Buddhism and Bön. 

In Nepal, the Garuda figure is dominant in temples and places of worship as a Vahana (carrier) of Lord Vishnu. The dialogue between Lord Vishnu and the Garuda became the famous Garuda Purana, the Sanatani Vaidic Hindu 'Book of Dead’ – concerning the soul's journey after earthly life. Holding different names and attributes based on its multitudes of roles in worldly and other-worldly realms, Garuda is called Nagari (enemy of the snakes), Vishahari (healer or eliminator of poison), Suparna (golden colour or as representative of the Sun), etc. 

The Retreat 

During the retreat, we will unfold the myths, rituals, journeys, mantras, rhythms, sacred songs, healing rituals and more, that relate to the self, family lineages and ancestors. The Garuda practice helps us look deeply into ourselves, beyond our limits. We become the observer that allows us to gain understanding at a more profound level. As with the Vishahari and Suparna form, Garuda's powerful spirit helps heal the inner wounds and the unknown circumstances we may be holding inside. Garuda rituals are also performed for the healing of others, especially if the condition is unable to be healed through working with the Nagas. 

This is a very rare opportunity to learn some of the most powerful healing practices used within Dhami-Jhankri Shamanism.