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Episode details

World Service,05 May 2023,26 mins

Will the real Shaman stand up?

Heart and Soul

Available for over a year

According to the national census, the number of British people who say they follow Shamanism as a religion has risen twelvefold in the space of 10 years. While the numbers are still low – at around 8,000 followers - the increase has put pressure on those who have followed the practice for years. Without a clear set of beliefs and a central organisation, the practice of Shamanism itself has its roots in different parts of the world. How do experienced Shamanic practitioners ensure their belief is not hijacked by those whose motives are not purely spiritual? The BBC’s Amber Haque visits a British shaman to find out what Shamanism is, what it means to her and her circle of believers and why they think it should be taken seriously. Presenter: Amber Haque Producer: Rob Cave Production co-ordinator: Mica Nepomuceno Editor: Helen Grady (Photo: Rita Hraiz)

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