Eightfold Path to Altered States of Consciousness
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**Disclaimer: I do not suggest anyone to practice any of the suggested techniques without proper understanding and experience in this area. Another key point I wish to make is that there is no "right" eightfold path. The one I will be presenting is largely based off my understanding of the work of Raven Kaldera, whom is easy to follow (personally). You'll find several varying sources and contradicting information regarding the eightfold path, because it can be largely individualized . And last, but not least, some of the content is a bit mature so take it as you will.**
The eightfold path is a collection of shamanistic techniques (from northern practices, not to be confused with the Buddhist terminology) that are centered on controlling one's own consciousness. There are several different "paths" which all differ and alter steps in doing this. As stated in the disclaimer, there is no "right" eightfold path: often, defining each path can prove to be difficult as depending on how you practice- the lines between can often disappear and you find that you can incorporate multiple "paths" at one time. You do not have to practice all eight, and it is suggested that you not try to practice all eight: stick with what you are comfortable with and feel that you do well. But as with anything, before attempting to practice this- read up on it, understand it, develop your skills in this area. Before attempting something as this, you should take into consideration your personal wellbeing. It's been suggested that jumping into something like this without building up the proper tools and skills can be disastrous for the user. Other than that, have fun learning.
Here is a list of the paths:
1) Path of Breath (The Path of Meditation/Trance)
2) Path of Ritual (Chants/Spells)
3) Path of Rhythm (Rhythm/Music/Dance)
4) Ascetic's Path (Fasting/Deprivation)
5) Path of Sacred Plants (Chemical)
6) Path of Flesh (Sexual Energy)
7) Ordeal Path (Pain)
8] Path of the Horse (Evocation)
The Path of Breath
This tends to be the most popular path, as it deals mainly with types of meditation. It's called the Path of Breath because the most common form of this path is seen through various breathing exercises and techniques. Understanding that breath and life are thought to be highly interconnected is an important concept. While northern tradition does not have a "set" standard or way of doing these exercises, it is common for northern shamans to practice this as much as others, because it is not unlike galdr- a form of magic involving singing. "This path includes techniques of trance work such as utiseta, "faring forth", and so on." (Raven) (*Note: Utiseta essentially means "sitting out" which involves working on nonphysical planes -> astral projection).
The suggested first step is to become aware of conscious of air: focusing on it as we breathe in and out and paying intent attention to it, rather than letting it be a natural breathing. The second suggested step is to alter the breathing :Counting the number of breaths, monitoring movement of diaphragm, etc can be helpful in relaxing your state of mind. "The best beginner's technique is the basic four-fold breath: you breathe in for a count of four, you hold for four, you breathe out for four, you wait for four, and you just do that..The trick of doing the four-fold breathing thing is to actually extend yourself at the times when you're holding the breath out. You breathe out for four counts, and then you slip further out during the counts before you breathe in again." From there, visualization/focused thought and projection can occur more easily.
Path of Ritual & Path of Rhythm
This second path, the path of ritual, involves creating sacred space and following a set of repetitive and focused activities (with personal meaning and intention) in said space to create the desired altered state: often these activities are imbued with meaning, symbology, and types of projection through various things such as spells, tools, and often the incorporation of repetitive actions and motions(which is the third path, the Path of Rhythm). This path involves drum beats, repetitive motions, dancing, and other forms of music making. It is not uncommon to see this type of path practiced in a group, as it is thought to make the transition easier when a group of people are dancing erratically and wildly.
Chanting is a big part of this path as well. It is the repetitive use of a sound (which can be a word, note, sentence, verse- though most would stick to simpler and easier chants) that is used to induce a trance state. Sherry Gamble suggests that there are four components of this: relaxation, sensory restriction, rhythm and boredom. Relaxation would be making the mind carefree of worry or stress so that it is more open. Sensory restriction means narrowing your focus to a single point of awareness- keeping the intention as the main thought without allowing outside noise to interfere.
Rhythm, as described above, is suggested through chanting, dancing, making motions, etc. This ties in with boredom: doing the same thing over and over will allow the mind to be free of thought, making this work easier.
The Ascetic's Path
This is the fourth path, and I do not suggest that just anyone do this path- it is not as gentle as the first three. It can include fasting, types of sensory deprivation and different forms of purification. This path is worked by placing the physical body in an environment that is far from its usual comfort zone by depriving certain things from it. It's not uncommon to see this worked through the use of sweat lodges, hot springs, isolation, being put into darkness. Extended bouts of silence has even been added to this list. An example of how this has been used in the North would be the use of saunas. I'll discuss two important aspects of this path: fasting, and isolation.
Fasting has been tradition from some of the earliest times, as it is a means of increasing a personal spiritual awareness. The type of fasting you choose to do will alter how rigorous it is. There are fasts where you simply consume less, such a a diet of water and breads, and diets where you avoid food all together for a short period of time (Note: I do not suggest this to anyone. It can be dangerous, esp. if you do not understand the body and how to properly fast.) Fasting can help an individual to define their self control, and draw attention to the awareness of the body itself. It is generally used with other techniques to boost effectiveness or clarity/awareness.
Isolation can be another key part of this path, should it be chosen by the user to be implemented. Isolation, or drawing one's self out of society and company, can be an extremely important element of spiritual work. Isolating ones self from people can help to isolate the mind from the physical world and allow more openness. "Like all the methods of the Eightfold Path, isolation is best used with care, thought and clear intent. We may sometimes envy the stories of mystics or shamans who pushed themselves far past normal limits and experienced ecstatic states or stunning visions of other worlds. At the same time, few of us can abandon ourselves so completely to our magickal work that we can afford to release all vestiges of consensual reality and cast off every line holding us to the common landscape. As a controlled magickal tool, isolation can be used to help us reach beyond our boundaries without forcing us to leap irrevocably off the edge of the world."
Path of Sacred Plants
"From Thor's henbane beer to the infamous Little Red Man mushroom, hallucinogenic plants have been used with surprising frequency in the ancient North. " This path is the use of herbs/plants to induce trance-like states and to free the mind to allow for easier work. However, this is a mature path and often has several problems associated with it. First, the issue of legality. Second, the issue of personal health. Third, the issue of abuse. Shamans and workers do not use these plants on a regular basis, and do not use them for "fun". They generally build a relationship with the plant and its spirit before evening thinking of using it. They take into consideration the consequences and asses the risks of what they are doing. (It is thought that each plant, type of drug or alcoholic drink has a "spirit"- to become familiar with this spirit, it is suggested that the user take time to gradually expose themselves to whatever substance/plant they are working with by smelling, touching, and otherwise becoming acquainted with it. Sometimes specific substances reacted badly with people, so its important to know your standing before jumping into this right away).
This path deals with more than just the notorious plants, however. It deals a great bit in detoxification through herbal medicine. Herbal detox is similar to fasting and purification in a few ways, but is different in that it is not short-term so it does not have immediate effect. This is a long term type of spiritual discipline.
"The first sort of detoxifying herbs are the sweating-promoters; in essence, they mimic the effects of the sauna on a very low level. They include cayenne, ginger, and peppermint. The second sort includes bloodstream detoxifiers, which vary depending on whether you're aiming at the liver, the kidneys, or the respiratory system."(Raven)
Here's a list of common northern-tradition detoxification herbs, as Raven suggested:
*Milk Thistle – sacred to Sigyn, good liver support during times of physical extremity
* Burdock – sacred to Farbauti, blood cleanser par excellence
* Yellow Dock – stimulates bile, cleanses liver and bowels, detoxifies skin
* Dandelion – sacred to Sunna, increases bile flow and detoxifies the liver
* Mugwort – the first of the Nine Sacred Herbs, stimulates bile flow and detoxifies the liver
* Nettles – another of the Sacred Nine, clears uric acid and other waste from the body
* Cleavers – sacred to Gerda, cleanses the lymphatic system
* Parsley – one of Odin's herbs, reduces free radicals and tones the kidneys
* Marshmallow – sacred to Eir the Healer of Asgard, soothes mucous membranes
* Slippery Elm – reminds us of Embla the first woman, also soothing to membranes
* Mullein – Loki's plant, clears out the respiratory system, stimulates fluid production
* Agrimony – Angrboda's herb, clears the urinary, respiratory tracts and helps diarrhea
* Garlic – Thor's plant, blood cleanser and detoxifier
* Juniper Berries – the classic recaning herb of the Siberians, beloved of the Dwarves of the Four Directions, clears acids from the system and cleanses the urinary tract
Path of Flesh
The six path, the path of flesh, involves using sexual energy to open one's self up further and allow for easier work. It can be done either alone or with a partner, it is up to the individual using this path. It is not an uncommon path, and you can find it in varying traditions. It's a subset of normal "sex-magick". Some who have practiced this suggest that to them it is one of the strongest forms of raising energy, and that through this process chemicals in the body allow for an altered state of consciousness to occur faster and easier. Raven suggests that there are different types of how this can be implemented, depending on the spirits that are worked with (Aesir, Vanir, Jotun) and that most of how this functions has to be discovered by the individuals who choose to practice this- because most of the material out there on the subject can be negative. However, it's been suggested that there are three main "flavors" to northern-traditional sexual magick: and they vary depending on the pantheons I mentioned above.
Vanir type: this tends to be the most common and easily achievable to an average person. The suggested teachers of this would be Frey and Freya- as this type of magick would be used to contact spirits of nature and fertility. It tends to be earthy- and involves life energy. It is not as complex as some as the others, tending to be basic, it is an effort between individuals to raise energy. It is not for procreative purposes a good deal of the time- it can be used for bonding and magick. It does not have to be done with a partner (though it can be easier with one) nor does it have to be through a heterosexual act: Both Frey and Freya historically and modernly welcomed ergi types, third gender people who cross between. Freya teaches you your self worth, and what you value in yourself, and where you stand in these types of situations. Frey teaches willing sacrifice, and the understanding expressions through bodily workings.
Aesir type: The most important goal of this type of working is to bring people closer to the Gods, through bonding and an opening of one's self. This type of act is between an individual and their patron God(s). It can be done with two people, but in this situation one person would end up being the main energy worker and the other would really only be there for stimulation and takes a passive role. This can be changed, however, depending on individuals- if the roles are switched more than once. Then it becomes a working partnership. It is suggested that the two who are best suited at teaching this would be Odin and Frigga, as they are the divine couple. They are invoked at various things, such as weddings, to keep them sacred. Frigga teaches the understanding of how bonds are formed between two people, and how marriage effects those bonds. Odin teaches breath and song.
Rokkr (Jotun) type:
Best explained by Lydia Helasdottir
"For Jotun sex magic…well, the stuff that comes between Paraketh and the abyss is the stuff between the stars. That is Nox; that is the dark stuff…Here, love is a given, and the fact that you have your own furnace, your own star in your heart shining, is a given. You cant even work this stuff without that. Its about integrating something within and doing something with it.Rokkr magic is all about works, not enlightenment. In order to use sex to do something, make some change in the world, or integrate some dodgy part of you, or heal somebody, or help someone heal themselves, or whatever other reasons….well, there has to be a good reason, first thing.Its very goal-oriented, there's work to do. The Jotun are all very elemental. Its about rock and earth and tree and fire and sea, clearly physical and primal things which you shouldn't have any control over until you have achieved a connection with the divine, because it can become a greed thing and you this is where people go wrong, and end up doing things that will do damage to the world."
Some of the deities who are seen in this type of work are Angroboda and Loki, Hel, and Surt.
Ordeal Path
The seventh path, the Ordeal Path, is centered around the use of intentional and meaningful pain and endurance to force the body and consciousness into the desired altered state. This is a very traditional path: you'll find it throughout northern workings (for example types of blood runes which are carved into the skin to pull in energy and bravery). On this path, an ordeal or traumatic experience is used to stimulate the change. It can make projecting will more focused and easier to achieve. However, like some of the other paths, this has to be taken with caution.
This path can be one of the more "scary" ones to those who do not understand its purpose, and to those whom would abuse it. When the word pain is used, it tends to mean "non-injurious pain": large amounts of severe pain are not typically used. Rather, enough pain to stimulate the body is all that is needed. There are several different reasons one may choose to use the ordeal path: to make an offering to a deity, to gain some sort of internal power and control, to take the mind into a trance making it easier for work to be done, creating energy for said work.
Many of the Gods of these practices have done ordeal work: Odin himself went through several ordeal trials: hanging himself on the tree and suffering to learn the runes, Odin who tore his own eye out for knowledge from Mimir. Frey, as mentioned above, who teaches self sacrifice and willingly goes to die for fertility. Loki, who has constantly suffered on his path through various means. Fenris and Tyr, who both underwent bloody trials to gain something. There are many, many more dieites and stories of the sufferings they underwent in order to achieve something.
"Of course, just because a deity goes through a sacred mythic ordeal, willing or unwilling, does not mean that everyone who works with that deity ought to do the same. This Path is not for everyone, or even for most people, and that's as it should be. On the other hand, if an ordeal is necessary, there is greater power in linking that ordeal ritual to the paths blazed by the bloody footprints of a God in pain, if only by doing it in their honor. Linking it in this way draws divine power into it, gives it greater depth, and can take you much further than going there alone." (Raven)
There are various types of ordeal workings: cutting, branding, flogging, bruising, tattooing, scarification, whipping, cutting, piercing, etc. However, not all of these are often used and it is important to note the dangers with using some of these. Safety is a must! Rubbing alcohol, sterilized equipment, someone with medical training, etc should be used. A person doing these types of workings should be skilled and practiced in them. There isn't some special book or six-week program you can go through to learn the processes and safety techniques required in something like this. It has to be learned from experience.
Another thing to note is that not all ordeal workings deal with physical pain or trauma. There can be fear ordeals, or trust ordeals, or trial ordeals: "here someone is blindfolded and led through a dangerous area by a guide, or just into parts unknown in order to do something unexpected. Another might be having other people embody and say aloud the things which you fear to hear, or which trigger you, in a space where you are honor-bound to stay and hear it and not lash out. Ordeals can also include simple endurance rather than pain – for example, climbing a mountain to do a rite, or standing vigil and praying for a long period of time, or trance dancing for hours. Many of techniques of the other Paths, if done well past the point of comfort, become part of the Ordeal Path as well."(Raven)
Path of the Horse
This is the eighth path, which involves "direct spirit-possession: bringing the Gods or wights into the body for a short period of time"(Raven. He suggests that this is the rarest path, though the most direct, as he believes most people are not 'wired' for it and it deals in religious aspects). I will simply provide the information on it and let you decide what you think on the matter. "The word "horse" is borrowed from the Afro-Caribbean religious traditions. In those religions the person whose body is borrowed by a God or a spirit is referred to as a "horse", and the act of being spirit-possessed is referred to as being "ridden". While we who do these things in a modern northern-tradition context do unashamedly borrow this term, it seems oddly appropriate in spite of its origins. One is reminded of the runes Ehwaz and Raido, the Horse and the Ride, which are also Movement and the Path." (Raven)
God-possession tends to be looked upon with a lot of skepticism and disbelief, as many do not believe in it. It is suggested that generally only skilled and well practiced spirit-workers should even attempt this, and are often the ones who are able to tell what to look for in these cases. Typically, if a claim is made of possession there is a process of peer testing and observation. Galina Krasskova writes: "A Lukumi friend of mine offered this advice: Take the first possession at face value-theres just not empirical evidence beyond that. Note, however, that in subsequent ones, the crisis situation of possession (by the same Deity) tends to produce the same symptoms in the horse. This is a tell."
Here, as suggested by Raven's work, I will provide what he considers the hallmarks of true "riding":
1) The deity does not advocate for the horse. The deity usually treats the body as if it is their own, and doesn't refer to the horse much at all.
2) If the deity does refer to the horse, they will very rarely refer to them by name; more likely they'll say "this one" or something like that. This is because being called by name can actually shake many horses out of the possession and call them back to themselves (a useful trick for helping someone ground afterwards if theyre having difficulties coming all the way back). In some religions, the practitioners may not recognize themselves as being in a horse though weve never had this happen with Northern-Tradition Deities.
3) Beware overstressing of the archetype of the deity: most possessions are unique. In most possessions, the deity gets personal. It goes beyond and doesnt feel distant. They are right there with you.
4) Don't be bothered by a lack of supernatural manifestations; that doesn't mean that it's not a true possession. Some of the most powerful manifestations do not involve super amazing feats. The Gods, after all are not there to do parlor tricks.
5) The support staff will get better understanding with repeated possessions. If the same God or Goddess goes into the same person on more than one occasion, it becomes easier to see the pattern. Sometimes, a deity will refer to something theyve said in a previous possession, even if that possession occurred in another horse.
Sources (which you may refer to for additional information):
WightriddenPaths of Northern-Tradition Shamanism by Raven Kaldera
Work from Walter Wright Arthen, Sherry Gamble, Inanna Arthen
Silence by Silence Maestas
http://www.northernshamanism.org/shamanic-techniques
http://krasskova.weebly.com/
http://www.paganlibrary.com/reference/altered_states.php
**Disclaimer: I do not suggest anyone to practice any of the suggested techniques without proper understanding and experience in this area. Another key point I wish to make is that there is no "right" eightfold path. The one I will be presenting is largely based off my understanding of the work of Raven Kaldera, whom is easy to follow (personally). You'll find several varying sources and contradicting information regarding the eightfold path, because it can be largely individualized . And last, but not least, some of the content is a bit mature so take it as you will.**
The eightfold path is a collection of shamanistic techniques (from northern practices, not to be confused with the Buddhist terminology) that are centered on controlling one's own consciousness. There are several different "paths" which all differ and alter steps in doing this. As stated in the disclaimer, there is no "right" eightfold path: often, defining each path can prove to be difficult as depending on how you practice- the lines between can often disappear and you find that you can incorporate multiple "paths" at one time. You do not have to practice all eight, and it is suggested that you not try to practice all eight: stick with what you are comfortable with and feel that you do well. But as with anything, before attempting to practice this- read up on it, understand it, develop your skills in this area. Before attempting something as this, you should take into consideration your personal wellbeing. It's been suggested that jumping into something like this without building up the proper tools and skills can be disastrous for the user. Other than that, have fun learning.
Here is a list of the paths:
1) Path of Breath (The Path of Meditation/Trance)
2) Path of Ritual (Chants/Spells)
3) Path of Rhythm (Rhythm/Music/Dance)
4) Ascetic's Path (Fasting/Deprivation)
5) Path of Sacred Plants (Chemical)
6) Path of Flesh (Sexual Energy)
7) Ordeal Path (Pain)
8] Path of the Horse (Evocation)
The Path of Breath
This tends to be the most popular path, as it deals mainly with types of meditation. It's called the Path of Breath because the most common form of this path is seen through various breathing exercises and techniques. Understanding that breath and life are thought to be highly interconnected is an important concept. While northern tradition does not have a "set" standard or way of doing these exercises, it is common for northern shamans to practice this as much as others, because it is not unlike galdr- a form of magic involving singing. "This path includes techniques of trance work such as utiseta, "faring forth", and so on." (Raven) (*Note: Utiseta essentially means "sitting out" which involves working on nonphysical planes -> astral projection).
The suggested first step is to become aware of conscious of air: focusing on it as we breathe in and out and paying intent attention to it, rather than letting it be a natural breathing. The second suggested step is to alter the breathing :Counting the number of breaths, monitoring movement of diaphragm, etc can be helpful in relaxing your state of mind. "The best beginner's technique is the basic four-fold breath: you breathe in for a count of four, you hold for four, you breathe out for four, you wait for four, and you just do that..The trick of doing the four-fold breathing thing is to actually extend yourself at the times when you're holding the breath out. You breathe out for four counts, and then you slip further out during the counts before you breathe in again." From there, visualization/focused thought and projection can occur more easily.
Path of Ritual & Path of Rhythm
This second path, the path of ritual, involves creating sacred space and following a set of repetitive and focused activities (with personal meaning and intention) in said space to create the desired altered state: often these activities are imbued with meaning, symbology, and types of projection through various things such as spells, tools, and often the incorporation of repetitive actions and motions(which is the third path, the Path of Rhythm). This path involves drum beats, repetitive motions, dancing, and other forms of music making. It is not uncommon to see this type of path practiced in a group, as it is thought to make the transition easier when a group of people are dancing erratically and wildly.
Chanting is a big part of this path as well. It is the repetitive use of a sound (which can be a word, note, sentence, verse- though most would stick to simpler and easier chants) that is used to induce a trance state. Sherry Gamble suggests that there are four components of this: relaxation, sensory restriction, rhythm and boredom. Relaxation would be making the mind carefree of worry or stress so that it is more open. Sensory restriction means narrowing your focus to a single point of awareness- keeping the intention as the main thought without allowing outside noise to interfere.
Rhythm, as described above, is suggested through chanting, dancing, making motions, etc. This ties in with boredom: doing the same thing over and over will allow the mind to be free of thought, making this work easier.
The Ascetic's Path
This is the fourth path, and I do not suggest that just anyone do this path- it is not as gentle as the first three. It can include fasting, types of sensory deprivation and different forms of purification. This path is worked by placing the physical body in an environment that is far from its usual comfort zone by depriving certain things from it. It's not uncommon to see this worked through the use of sweat lodges, hot springs, isolation, being put into darkness. Extended bouts of silence has even been added to this list. An example of how this has been used in the North would be the use of saunas. I'll discuss two important aspects of this path: fasting, and isolation.
Fasting has been tradition from some of the earliest times, as it is a means of increasing a personal spiritual awareness. The type of fasting you choose to do will alter how rigorous it is. There are fasts where you simply consume less, such a a diet of water and breads, and diets where you avoid food all together for a short period of time (Note: I do not suggest this to anyone. It can be dangerous, esp. if you do not understand the body and how to properly fast.) Fasting can help an individual to define their self control, and draw attention to the awareness of the body itself. It is generally used with other techniques to boost effectiveness or clarity/awareness.
Isolation can be another key part of this path, should it be chosen by the user to be implemented. Isolation, or drawing one's self out of society and company, can be an extremely important element of spiritual work. Isolating ones self from people can help to isolate the mind from the physical world and allow more openness. "Like all the methods of the Eightfold Path, isolation is best used with care, thought and clear intent. We may sometimes envy the stories of mystics or shamans who pushed themselves far past normal limits and experienced ecstatic states or stunning visions of other worlds. At the same time, few of us can abandon ourselves so completely to our magickal work that we can afford to release all vestiges of consensual reality and cast off every line holding us to the common landscape. As a controlled magickal tool, isolation can be used to help us reach beyond our boundaries without forcing us to leap irrevocably off the edge of the world."
Path of Sacred Plants
"From Thor's henbane beer to the infamous Little Red Man mushroom, hallucinogenic plants have been used with surprising frequency in the ancient North. " This path is the use of herbs/plants to induce trance-like states and to free the mind to allow for easier work. However, this is a mature path and often has several problems associated with it. First, the issue of legality. Second, the issue of personal health. Third, the issue of abuse. Shamans and workers do not use these plants on a regular basis, and do not use them for "fun". They generally build a relationship with the plant and its spirit before evening thinking of using it. They take into consideration the consequences and asses the risks of what they are doing. (It is thought that each plant, type of drug or alcoholic drink has a "spirit"- to become familiar with this spirit, it is suggested that the user take time to gradually expose themselves to whatever substance/plant they are working with by smelling, touching, and otherwise becoming acquainted with it. Sometimes specific substances reacted badly with people, so its important to know your standing before jumping into this right away).
This path deals with more than just the notorious plants, however. It deals a great bit in detoxification through herbal medicine. Herbal detox is similar to fasting and purification in a few ways, but is different in that it is not short-term so it does not have immediate effect. This is a long term type of spiritual discipline.
"The first sort of detoxifying herbs are the sweating-promoters; in essence, they mimic the effects of the sauna on a very low level. They include cayenne, ginger, and peppermint. The second sort includes bloodstream detoxifiers, which vary depending on whether you're aiming at the liver, the kidneys, or the respiratory system."(Raven)
Here's a list of common northern-tradition detoxification herbs, as Raven suggested:
*Milk Thistle – sacred to Sigyn, good liver support during times of physical extremity
* Burdock – sacred to Farbauti, blood cleanser par excellence
* Yellow Dock – stimulates bile, cleanses liver and bowels, detoxifies skin
* Dandelion – sacred to Sunna, increases bile flow and detoxifies the liver
* Mugwort – the first of the Nine Sacred Herbs, stimulates bile flow and detoxifies the liver
* Nettles – another of the Sacred Nine, clears uric acid and other waste from the body
* Cleavers – sacred to Gerda, cleanses the lymphatic system
* Parsley – one of Odin's herbs, reduces free radicals and tones the kidneys
* Marshmallow – sacred to Eir the Healer of Asgard, soothes mucous membranes
* Slippery Elm – reminds us of Embla the first woman, also soothing to membranes
* Mullein – Loki's plant, clears out the respiratory system, stimulates fluid production
* Agrimony – Angrboda's herb, clears the urinary, respiratory tracts and helps diarrhea
* Garlic – Thor's plant, blood cleanser and detoxifier
* Juniper Berries – the classic recaning herb of the Siberians, beloved of the Dwarves of the Four Directions, clears acids from the system and cleanses the urinary tract
Path of Flesh
The six path, the path of flesh, involves using sexual energy to open one's self up further and allow for easier work. It can be done either alone or with a partner, it is up to the individual using this path. It is not an uncommon path, and you can find it in varying traditions. It's a subset of normal "sex-magick". Some who have practiced this suggest that to them it is one of the strongest forms of raising energy, and that through this process chemicals in the body allow for an altered state of consciousness to occur faster and easier. Raven suggests that there are different types of how this can be implemented, depending on the spirits that are worked with (Aesir, Vanir, Jotun) and that most of how this functions has to be discovered by the individuals who choose to practice this- because most of the material out there on the subject can be negative. However, it's been suggested that there are three main "flavors" to northern-traditional sexual magick: and they vary depending on the pantheons I mentioned above.
Vanir type: this tends to be the most common and easily achievable to an average person. The suggested teachers of this would be Frey and Freya- as this type of magick would be used to contact spirits of nature and fertility. It tends to be earthy- and involves life energy. It is not as complex as some as the others, tending to be basic, it is an effort between individuals to raise energy. It is not for procreative purposes a good deal of the time- it can be used for bonding and magick. It does not have to be done with a partner (though it can be easier with one) nor does it have to be through a heterosexual act: Both Frey and Freya historically and modernly welcomed ergi types, third gender people who cross between. Freya teaches you your self worth, and what you value in yourself, and where you stand in these types of situations. Frey teaches willing sacrifice, and the understanding expressions through bodily workings.
Aesir type: The most important goal of this type of working is to bring people closer to the Gods, through bonding and an opening of one's self. This type of act is between an individual and their patron God(s). It can be done with two people, but in this situation one person would end up being the main energy worker and the other would really only be there for stimulation and takes a passive role. This can be changed, however, depending on individuals- if the roles are switched more than once. Then it becomes a working partnership. It is suggested that the two who are best suited at teaching this would be Odin and Frigga, as they are the divine couple. They are invoked at various things, such as weddings, to keep them sacred. Frigga teaches the understanding of how bonds are formed between two people, and how marriage effects those bonds. Odin teaches breath and song.
Rokkr (Jotun) type:
Best explained by Lydia Helasdottir
"For Jotun sex magic…well, the stuff that comes between Paraketh and the abyss is the stuff between the stars. That is Nox; that is the dark stuff…Here, love is a given, and the fact that you have your own furnace, your own star in your heart shining, is a given. You cant even work this stuff without that. Its about integrating something within and doing something with it.Rokkr magic is all about works, not enlightenment. In order to use sex to do something, make some change in the world, or integrate some dodgy part of you, or heal somebody, or help someone heal themselves, or whatever other reasons….well, there has to be a good reason, first thing.Its very goal-oriented, there's work to do. The Jotun are all very elemental. Its about rock and earth and tree and fire and sea, clearly physical and primal things which you shouldn't have any control over until you have achieved a connection with the divine, because it can become a greed thing and you this is where people go wrong, and end up doing things that will do damage to the world."
Some of the deities who are seen in this type of work are Angroboda and Loki, Hel, and Surt.
Ordeal Path
The seventh path, the Ordeal Path, is centered around the use of intentional and meaningful pain and endurance to force the body and consciousness into the desired altered state. This is a very traditional path: you'll find it throughout northern workings (for example types of blood runes which are carved into the skin to pull in energy and bravery). On this path, an ordeal or traumatic experience is used to stimulate the change. It can make projecting will more focused and easier to achieve. However, like some of the other paths, this has to be taken with caution.
This path can be one of the more "scary" ones to those who do not understand its purpose, and to those whom would abuse it. When the word pain is used, it tends to mean "non-injurious pain": large amounts of severe pain are not typically used. Rather, enough pain to stimulate the body is all that is needed. There are several different reasons one may choose to use the ordeal path: to make an offering to a deity, to gain some sort of internal power and control, to take the mind into a trance making it easier for work to be done, creating energy for said work.
Many of the Gods of these practices have done ordeal work: Odin himself went through several ordeal trials: hanging himself on the tree and suffering to learn the runes, Odin who tore his own eye out for knowledge from Mimir. Frey, as mentioned above, who teaches self sacrifice and willingly goes to die for fertility. Loki, who has constantly suffered on his path through various means. Fenris and Tyr, who both underwent bloody trials to gain something. There are many, many more dieites and stories of the sufferings they underwent in order to achieve something.
"Of course, just because a deity goes through a sacred mythic ordeal, willing or unwilling, does not mean that everyone who works with that deity ought to do the same. This Path is not for everyone, or even for most people, and that's as it should be. On the other hand, if an ordeal is necessary, there is greater power in linking that ordeal ritual to the paths blazed by the bloody footprints of a God in pain, if only by doing it in their honor. Linking it in this way draws divine power into it, gives it greater depth, and can take you much further than going there alone." (Raven)
There are various types of ordeal workings: cutting, branding, flogging, bruising, tattooing, scarification, whipping, cutting, piercing, etc. However, not all of these are often used and it is important to note the dangers with using some of these. Safety is a must! Rubbing alcohol, sterilized equipment, someone with medical training, etc should be used. A person doing these types of workings should be skilled and practiced in them. There isn't some special book or six-week program you can go through to learn the processes and safety techniques required in something like this. It has to be learned from experience.
Another thing to note is that not all ordeal workings deal with physical pain or trauma. There can be fear ordeals, or trust ordeals, or trial ordeals: "here someone is blindfolded and led through a dangerous area by a guide, or just into parts unknown in order to do something unexpected. Another might be having other people embody and say aloud the things which you fear to hear, or which trigger you, in a space where you are honor-bound to stay and hear it and not lash out. Ordeals can also include simple endurance rather than pain – for example, climbing a mountain to do a rite, or standing vigil and praying for a long period of time, or trance dancing for hours. Many of techniques of the other Paths, if done well past the point of comfort, become part of the Ordeal Path as well."(Raven)
Path of the Horse
This is the eighth path, which involves "direct spirit-possession: bringing the Gods or wights into the body for a short period of time"(Raven. He suggests that this is the rarest path, though the most direct, as he believes most people are not 'wired' for it and it deals in religious aspects). I will simply provide the information on it and let you decide what you think on the matter. "The word "horse" is borrowed from the Afro-Caribbean religious traditions. In those religions the person whose body is borrowed by a God or a spirit is referred to as a "horse", and the act of being spirit-possessed is referred to as being "ridden". While we who do these things in a modern northern-tradition context do unashamedly borrow this term, it seems oddly appropriate in spite of its origins. One is reminded of the runes Ehwaz and Raido, the Horse and the Ride, which are also Movement and the Path." (Raven)
God-possession tends to be looked upon with a lot of skepticism and disbelief, as many do not believe in it. It is suggested that generally only skilled and well practiced spirit-workers should even attempt this, and are often the ones who are able to tell what to look for in these cases. Typically, if a claim is made of possession there is a process of peer testing and observation. Galina Krasskova writes: "A Lukumi friend of mine offered this advice: Take the first possession at face value-theres just not empirical evidence beyond that. Note, however, that in subsequent ones, the crisis situation of possession (by the same Deity) tends to produce the same symptoms in the horse. This is a tell."
Here, as suggested by Raven's work, I will provide what he considers the hallmarks of true "riding":
1) The deity does not advocate for the horse. The deity usually treats the body as if it is their own, and doesn't refer to the horse much at all.
2) If the deity does refer to the horse, they will very rarely refer to them by name; more likely they'll say "this one" or something like that. This is because being called by name can actually shake many horses out of the possession and call them back to themselves (a useful trick for helping someone ground afterwards if theyre having difficulties coming all the way back). In some religions, the practitioners may not recognize themselves as being in a horse though weve never had this happen with Northern-Tradition Deities.
3) Beware overstressing of the archetype of the deity: most possessions are unique. In most possessions, the deity gets personal. It goes beyond and doesnt feel distant. They are right there with you.
4) Don't be bothered by a lack of supernatural manifestations; that doesn't mean that it's not a true possession. Some of the most powerful manifestations do not involve super amazing feats. The Gods, after all are not there to do parlor tricks.
5) The support staff will get better understanding with repeated possessions. If the same God or Goddess goes into the same person on more than one occasion, it becomes easier to see the pattern. Sometimes, a deity will refer to something theyve said in a previous possession, even if that possession occurred in another horse.
Sources (which you may refer to for additional information):
WightriddenPaths of Northern-Tradition Shamanism by Raven Kaldera
Work from Walter Wright Arthen, Sherry Gamble, Inanna Arthen
Silence by Silence Maestas
http://www.northernshamanism.org/shamanic-techniques
http://krasskova.weebly.com/
http://www.paganlibrary.com/reference/altered_states.php