The Book of Seidr: The Native English and Northern European Shamanic Tradition

by Runic John

Seidr is the ancient Northern European shamanism. The main practice of seidr, as with all shamanic traditions, is the use of various extremely ancient techniques to affect the mind and alter our consciousness to a state in which we can perceive and work with the hidden realm of spirit directly.We may take up the practice of Seidr initially for ourselves to give us a better understanding of ourselves and of the hidden realm that normally lurks beneath the onion skin we call reality. We can use seidr to connect on a deeper level to our own inner self and to enhance our particular skills and positive qualities. Seidr can also help us to connect to the hidden realms of nature on a before unimaginable depth, allowing us to gain an experiential understanding of the natural world and all that dwell therein; to actually feel one with the forest, the earth and the sky. Through seidr you may truly begin to form a real relationship with our ancestors and the elder gods and goddesses of our folk. As you embark on this path of seidr, never again will the world look empty and hollow, for your eyes will learn to see the spirit in all things and to hear the voices of the ancient ones. ISBN 186163 2290 Manufacturer Capall Bann Publishing Ltd More products by Capall Bann Publishing Ltd

Genres: Paganism, Witchcraft

Paperback

First published October 30, 2004

Reviews

[Benjamin Long · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a great book on shamanism from the author's point of view. The only thing I would say that it needs is more actual backing from other people in the community. Most heathens are completely unfamiliar with this book.

[S. Harrell · Rating 4 out of 5]

The writing is a bit wobbly in places, though the depth of information on engaging seidr is the most comprehensive I've read. He is careful to distinguish UPG against the eddas and other writings, while maintaining a deep knowledge of general soul tending technologies. I was disappointed in Freya mostly being supporting cast to Odin, particularly since the book is on seidr, not the runes. Also, the book doesn't have an index, which is a tragic oversight for a book filled with notable details.

[Larisa Hunter · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Book of Seidr by Runic John
Published by Capall Bann Publishing (2011)
ISBN 1861632290
Pages: 332

Well, I have to say I am incredibly impressed with this book. I have been interesting in Seidr for awhile and was frankly disenchanted with what has been 'published' about it. However, The Book of Seidr was truly a breath of fresh air. The book is jam packed with helpful tips, sources, reference materials, exercises and more.

I think heathens might feel that the book does not 'speak' to them, but in fact I found it very honest and forthright as well as accurate and well researched and find myself surprised it is not 'recommended' among those interested in learning more about Seidr. Runic John does a great job at describing all kinds of journeys, and all kinds of seithfolk which makes you wonder what his next book might reveal :) The exercises are well written and visually stimulating and Runic John does provide a great breakdown of seidr and its practices.

I was greatly impressed with how much was jammed in here and found it very well worth reading, in fact would like to go through the visual exercises myself and see the effect.
I would highly urge people who are looking for a different perspective on Seidr pick up this book and gladly give it a 5/5. It is an amazing work, and I truly look forward to reading the next book planned out by Runic John titled Up And Down The Tree as I am sure this will have some interesting insights as well.

[Michael Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a joy to read.

I'm very familiar with Northern mythology, esotericism and the runes, but haven't previously given Seidr as full and thorough an exploration as I would have liked. It was a delight to read John's book and find so much discussed in so clear and practical a fashion.

The book does deal with what we know about Seidr from historical and comparative sources, but its main emphasis is upon the actual practice. The methods of travelling the worlds, gaining allies, healing and foresight are all dealt with and clearly explained.

One of the best things about the book is its writing style. This is not a dry, dusty, academic text. It reads fluidly and enthusiastically. It never feels as though you're being lectured, but as if you're sitting down with a friend who's explaining his passion for the subject to you.

Excellent.