From the Classroom to the Andes—Chen Yun-ju's Journey of Exploration

From an educator in the classroom to a successor in the Andes, Chen Yun-ju's shamanic journey is a cross-boundary dialogue about awakening. In the Inca tradition, the responsibilities of a shaman are clearly defined: one type is the guardian of the tribe, focusing on healing the body and mind; the other is the priest-like 'Earth Keeper,' tasked with connecting heaven and earth and harmonizing energy. This ancient wisdom opened up to the world in modern times, stemming from the Andean legend of Pachakuti—meaning 'the turning of the world.' While the West spread prophecies of doom, the ancestors in the mountains foresaw the rise of a new consciousness. The prophecy mentioned that the promoters of the new world would return from abroad, so the elders opened their doors, entrusting this once-hidden heritage to the Western world, which created this opportunity for seeking and learning. In shamanic work, everything is about connection. Through the Mesa altar bundle to concentrate personal energy, using the Despacho blessing bundle for offerings, and communicating with spirits through coca leaves in rituals, one opens a soul journey to the three realms. This is not only personal cultivation but also a responsibility to protect the Earth. She also shares the ceramic works created by students through her courses. Furthermore, as the world is in a wave of transformation, how can we find our complete selves through soul retrieval? Let us follow in Chen Yun-ju's footsteps and enter this Inca journey of spiritual transformation.