The Mindfulness Survival Kit

Vuyiswa Xekatwane presents that translatability and untranslatability of the healing traditions. She says ‘every Sangoma was modern in their time’, that is, spiritual innovation is a historical constant. She shows how she uses the internet and still relies on the specific traditional modalities to expand her spiritual repertoire.

Plotkin outlines a 5-stage map called the Descent to Soul, based on decades of guiding wilderness-based rites of passage. Provides practices (e.g., soul tasks, dreamwork, nature solos) to deepen transformation. Encourages ego-soul integration, humility, and mythic leadership grounded in ecological belonging. Personal note: some readers (especially Western public) may find this structured framework helpful, however one can claim that it is a overly simplistic representation of the mysterious experience of the soul and human journey :). Also beware of cultural misinterpretations, as it is rooted in indigenous rituals but written by and for non-indigenous people. Some disclaimers can be helpful whie presenting the resource (also for safety protocols and spiritual guidance for any type of profound spiritual experiences.) - Inès Mazas