The Bear Spirit Posture

In my previous post, I described anthropologist Felicitas Goodman's research on ecstatic trance postures. To introduce you to ritual body postures, I have selected a powerful healing posture from Belinda Gore's book, Ecstatic Body Postures: An Alternate Reality Book. According to Gore, one of Dr. Goodman's prominent students, the ancient Bear Spirit Posture is for curing disease and restoring harmony and balance to the individual and the community. This comfortable standing posture connects us to Grandfather Bear -- the "great healer." Evidence of this posture has been found throughout the world, dating from 6000 BC and still in use today. The Bear Spirit will absorb any negative feelings, blockages or emotional trauma within you. It is not unusual to experience being split open. Trancers often describe having their bodies scored by the claws of the Bear Spirit to release emotional and physical toxins. And even though mutilation is a common theme in this posture, rarely do people report having real physical pain with this trance. It is not uncommon for people to sway, rock, bounce, or shake in this posture; however, no one has ever fallen. Along with physical movement, people frequently experience intense heat, which is associated with being healed. Members of my shamanic circle have effectively utilized the Bear Spirit Posture in psychopomp work -- the shamanic art of assisting others in their death journey to the other side.

To assume this posture, stand with your feet parallel, about six inches apart, and point your toes straight ahead. Keep your knees slightly bent, removing any strain on your lower back. Curl your hands, as though you are holding a small, imaginary egg in the palm of each hand, and then place them across your belly. Place your thumbs loosely on your fingers, and hold your fingertips next to one another, but not pressed against each other. Position your hands so that your folded fingers form a tall triangle over your navel. The first joint of the index finger of each hand should touch to form the apex of the triangle. Keep your upper arms relaxed and close to your body. Tilt your head back to look at the seam where the wall meets the ceiling of the room. Close your eyes, and relax your jaw so your mouth hangs slightly open.

To enter a trance state and support your journey, you will need to listen to a shamanic journey drumming recording. Close your eyes, focus your attention on the sound of the drum, and imagine the power of Spirit Bear flowing through you, with all of its corresponding abilities. You may feel it, see it, sense it, or simply imagine it. As you focus on it, it will occur. All energy follows thought. If your mind wanders, bring the focus of your attention back to the beat of the drum. Drumming opens portals to the spirit world, draws spirit in, and opens you up to receive it.

Keep in mind that trancing requires a large amount of energy. After the journey, get plenty of rest and drink a lot of water. Avoid any kind of focused or intense activity for the rest of the day, and get a good night's sleep.