Shamanic Teachings of the Condor

“This book is of utmost importance. Having studied with Andean teachers for more than fifty years, been initiated by iachaks, and counted Taita Alberto Taxo as a friend, I can confidently say that Shamanic Teachings of the Condor is one of the most authentic books on the wisdom, philosophy, and practices of this remarkable man as well as the mystical traditions that date back many centuries. Martha’s eloquence, honesty, and humility make this a must-read that’s enjoyable for anyone interested in Andean shamanism and provides teachings that are needed today more than ever before.” * John Perkins, author of Shapeshifting, The World Is As You Dream It, Touching the Jaguar, and Psycho *“This book holds immense value for me both professionally and personally. As a longtime university teacher and researcher, I aim to comprehend global environmental devastation and contribute to its reversal. Martha Travers’s insights from the Kichwa people, particularly with Taita Alberto, offer crucial knowledge often overlooked in the U.S. that is essential for addressing our environmental and social crisis. I eagerly anticipate revisiting this book, viewing it as an ongoing resource to deepen my understanding and expand my nature-focused practices both professionally and personally. Martha Travers’s instructions and wisdom are invaluable for this endeavor.” * James Crowfoot, Ph.D., Emeritus professor of natural resources & environment and urban and regional *“Shamanic Teachings of the Condor is not an outsider attempt at assimilating an indigenous people’s beautiful, and ancient, beliefs, but rather, an open-hearted account of decades’ experiences with what the Andean kichwa people refer to as an iachak, or medicine person/shaman. The wise one who taught, and developed a positive relationship with Travers, was Taita Alberto. I give Shamanic Teachings of the Condor a 5 on a scale of 1-5. It’s worth a read, re-read, and future visits for its warmth and positive teachings alone, but the deeper teachings within make it even more worthwhile.” * Modern Merlin, PaganPages.org *

Martha Winona Travers, Ph.D., is a writer, teacher, and Mama Iachak who apprenticed with Ecuadorian Kichwa elder Taita Alberto Taxo for 22 years, including 10 years visiting the Indigenous Kichwa in the Andes. She holds a doctorate in English literature from the University of Michigan where she teaches contemplative practices as well as teaching at the GilChrist Retreat Center and at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Park. The author of The WayCard Oracle, she lives in Manchester, Michigan.