Nikki Sherwood, L.Ac.

Nikki's interest in shamanism and shamanic healing grew from a desire to deepen her healing practice. She has studied shamanism with the Foundation for Shamanic Studies since 2010. She completed the Two Week Shamanic Healing Intensive and Harner Shamanic Counseling Training, and will finish the Three Year program in Advanced Initiations in Shamanism and Shamanic Healing in 2023. Nikki hosts monthly shamanic journey circles in the foothills of Santa Barbara. She sees clients privately using the practices of power animal retrieval, divination, psychopomp, extraction, and soul retrieval as part of her shamanic healing. She also offers shamanic counseling.

Nikki says: "Since being called to core shamanism, the quality of my life physically, mentally, and spiritually has changed in a dynamic, loving and deeply meaningful way. The value of shamanism to our world is extraordinary. Shamanic practice gives us the experience and understanding that: We are all part of the totality of nature and related to each other; other realities and helping spirits exist; we each have our own spiritual authority and autonomy; all species have a soul; and there is a way to access non-ordinary reality for wisdom, healing and knowledge. When we understand this through our own personal experience, the more peaceful, compassionate and sane our world will be."

Nikki notes that the core shamanic methods taught, developed and practiced by Michael Harner, provide a clear methodology to discover one's own personal spiritual autonomy and authority. She is honored and grateful to have the opportunity to teach this profound system of healing for the Foundation for Shamanic Studies.

Nikki has had a successful career as an acupuncturist and herbalist for the last 37 years. She has been on the faculty as well as Clinical Director at both Santa Barbara College of Oriental Medicine and Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. She has also taught Qi Gong movement therapy for the last 10 years.

Nikki's students say:

"Nikki is a really wonderful instructor. This was an introductory class, and she moved at the perfect pace. She built in time for history and practice, exercises, group sharing and questions afterward. I particularly appreciated her attention to the ethics of shamanic work. She created a safe environment, and one in which I felt truly supported."

"The class was great! Nikki has a very comforting energy about her and makes the zoom class feel like we are there in person. It was a wonderful experience. Nikki is such a good teacher. Everything felt supportive and instructive."

"Extraordinary. I feel so lucky to have Nikki Sherwood facilitate my learning of shamanism. Nikki has a very sensitive and gentle way of listening to others. I am moved by her presence and the wisdom that she shares."

"Nikki was great. I loved that she allowed me to speak with her before signing up, as I connect with people while talking with them. She was very patient and just wonderful."