Camino de Santiago
The Camino de Santiago is an ancient pilgrimage route that runs through northern Spain and dates back to pre Christian times. This is one of the holiest and most popular pilgrimages in the world. According to the Christian tradition, the remains of St James, one of the Apostles, rest at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain. Legend also has it that the Camino lies along the ley lines, under the Milky Way.
Each year, thousands of Christians, non-Christians, atheists, basically just about anyone from all over the world walk, run, ride or bike the Camino. Traditionally, many Europeans just walked out of their homes and started walking towards Santiago. Over time, many popular routes have emerged. The most popular is the Camino Frances or the French Way, which starts at St Jean Pied de Port, goes over the Pyrenees and continues towards Santiago in Spain. This route is about 800 km or 500 miles. Interesting fact, the first Camino guide book 'Codex Calixtinus' was written in the 12th century! Even St Francis is believed to have walked the Camino. Since the 80's, it has become increasingly popular. There are many books and movies on it including 'The Way' and 'I'm Off Then'.
Why am I walking the Camino
The Camino first entered my consciousness a little over a year ago. I cannot remember how, perhaps a fleeting comment made by someone, perhaps something I read somewhere. I honestly could not tell you. I can tell you this though. Over the past year/ year and a half, the Camino has been calling me. It started popping up everywhere! At a dinner conversation, as an inflight movie....the Camino was everywhere and was calling my name.
I am a practicing Hindu and Pranic Healer. I meditate, I pray, I go the temples, I do poojas, I light diyas. I am more spiritual than religious. My faith and my spirituality are important to me. We were raised to be open minded, curious and respectful of all cultures and religions. My upbringing and my Pranic Healing training allow me to inclusive, where I can be a Hindu who also enjoys and appreciates rites and rituals from other traditions. I am drawn to the Catholic tradition, to Rome and the Vatican. Pilgrimages are a big part of a Hindu's life but, until now, I haven't felt the calling to do one. The Camino is calling my name and I have decided to answer the call. I will walk the final stage of the Camino Frances from O Cebriero to Santiago, in north western Spain, in April 2017. This final stretch is 160 km or 100 miles long.
Supporting my Camino; Advancing scientifc research on Pranic Healing
Pranic Healing (a form of energy healing) has been such a large part of my life for the past 10 years. It has nourished and strengthened my spiritual practice. It has deepened my love and appreciation for my own religion and culture and the world we live in. It has broadened my horizons. I have bounced back from illness, injury, heartbreak and other life challenges, big or small.... each time, stronger and better, thanks to Pranic Healing. My family has also had similar experiences. My friends have benefited from healings. So out of tremendous gratitude to GMCKS, I would like to raise money to support the scientific research, both underway and planned, to gain empirical evidence and scientific proof on the results and effects of Pranic Healing. This work will help in so many ways including opening up Pranic Healing to a broader community, legitimizing Pranic Healing so that someday soon insurance companies will pay for Pranic Healing treatments.
For more information on Pranic Healing, visit www.pranichealingusa.com
I am grateful for your support! Atma Namaste.
