%20V2.png){kind=logo}
Reciprocity
This is the intentional actions of insuring fair and mutually beneficial exchange with all involved in a situation. This is the way of the natural world: symbiotic, rejuvenating, and with deep consideration for the future of the relations. In this way it is non-reciprocal, meaning we are not in states of give and take but instead we focus on what is needed for the other to grow and thrive. This ensures all involved are taken care of.
The traditional Shaman can be seen as somewhere between trade-based profession and role within the community. Profession meaning they do this for a living and spend their life dedicated to their craft. That means on going schooling, tools to purchase or make, traveling when needed, working overtime, and all the bills that go with that. The reason why profession must also doesn't complete their title is that they have a role beyond exchange of goods, money, or services. They are neutral mediators to the natural and spiritual roles, so they are flexible knowing that some who really need their help may not be in the best finical situations. The expressed goal is harmony and balance.
Unlike a carpenter, surgeon, dentist, or landlord, you may be able to find mutual exchange in shells or bones you found, possibly home-grown food, a skill you have, or something else the shaman may need at that time. Shamans are still people meaning just like you they have bills to pay, rent/mortgages, cell phone bills, car payments, and of course families and lives to live beyond all that. AND just like any tradesman, you wouldn't want those kinds of people moonlighting to just get by and unable to provide their role to the community.
​
In the end what is important to remember is what you put in is amplified back to us, simple as that. Help is not just for those who can "pay", it is for all who need it. No one will be turned away just because of their finical situations, reciprocity can be found with respectful and considerate communication.
What are appropriate gifts for the Shaman?
While they are not mandatory, gifts are a beautiful way to show gratitude for a shaman when they host, facilitate or help in some way. While of course monetary donations can be a gift, more often gifts are things the shaman will use with clients, ceremonial spaces, and even things they may add to their coat, headdress, or ton (their shamanic tool kit). Gifts from the community are particularly helpful for shamans that are building up their community. The following list is not a limit but common things for the shaman
​​​​
-Ghee -Natural Candles -Natural Fabric Cloth like cotton for Chalamas -Incense -White birch bark -Juniper -Meteorites -Leather -Bones -Fur -Vodka or Piny Gin -Tobacco -True Silver things for blessings -Horse hair or tails -Dried Saffron -Big Temple incense sticks
The older the better for the following: -Shamanic Mirrors -Coins -Beads -Masks -Iron or brass bells -Keys -Ritual Tools
Donations
Finacial Donations are much appreciated for covering the costs of wood, land stewards, offerings, days of preparing and post ceremony, keeping the ceremonies going. They also of course go to the shaman to help with practical life things and insure they live a good life.
Common Amounts
$10
$20
$50
Custom Amount