Kirjahaku

This accessible book addresses one of the twenty-first century's most important issues: the increasing lack of connection between political institutions and the social reality of our everyday lives. A gulf between popular expectations and formal politics has widened continually since the revolts against authority of 1968, the Eastern European revolutions of 1989 and the growth of new social movements. Today, popular disillusion with politics is ubiquitous. Enormous social transformations on a global scale since the 1970s have produced no fundamental change in what are considered normal political institutions such as the state, or in mainstream political ideologies and parties. This book provides tools to understand the apparent irrelevance of formal political institutions and practices to social life. In order to enable us to begin to rethink the relations between politics and society, Michael Drake ably synthesises the new theoretical developments that social transformations have produced, including the analysis of power, representation, social identities, social movements, sovereignty, statehood, globalization, revolution, risk and security. Ultimately, the book explores the emergent potentialities and problems of this new politics in a world of continuous transformation, where the parameters of the political are continuously shifting.

This accessible book addresses one of the twenty-first century's most important issues: the increasing lack of connection between political institutions and the social reality of our everyday lives. A gulf between popular expectations and formal politics has widened continually since the revolts against authority of 1968, the Eastern European revolutions of 1989 and the growth of new social movements. Today, popular disillusion with politics is ubiquitous. Enormous social transformations on a global scale since the 1970s have produced no fundamental change in what are considered normal political institutions such as the state, or in mainstream political ideologies and parties. This book provides tools to understand the apparent irrelevance of formal political institutions and practices to social life. In order to enable us to begin to rethink the relations between politics and society, Michael Drake ably synthesises the new theoretical developments that social transformations have produced, including the analysis of power, representation, social identities, social movements, sovereignty, statehood, globalization, revolution, risk and security. Ultimately, the book explores the emergent potentialities and problems of this new politics in a world of continuous transformation, where the parameters of the political are continuously shifting.

Shamanic drumming is an ancient approach that uses rhythm to promote healing and self-expression. Based on his studies and personal shamanic experience, Michael presents the first practical guide to applying this ancient healing art to our modern lives. Through a series of simple exercises and lessons, he teaches the basic shamanic methods of drumming. The focus is on creating sacred space, journeying, power practice, power animals, drum therapy, drum circles and the therapeutic effects of drumming. Whether you are an accomplished percussionist or a total beginner, this user-friendly book will help you harness the power of drumming. Recent studies demonstrate that drumming is a valuable treatment for stress, chronic pain, cancer, stroke, trauma, addictions, mental illness, emotional disorders and a wide range of physical disabilities. The benefits include relaxation, healing, more energy, greater mental clarity, enhanced creativity and deeper self-awareness.

In this user-friendly interpretation of the I Ching, Michael Drake presents drumming as a revolutionary way to approach the ancient Chinese oracle. A synthesis of shamanic drum ways and Taoist philosophy, I Ching: The Tao of Drumming provides for the first time the rhythmic structure of the 64 hexagrams or potential human situations. Drum patterns derived from the hexagram images render the essence of each archetype of experience into sound, giving it physical, mental, and spiritual impulse. Through the natural law of resonance, the drummer then embodies the qualities and attributes necessary to effect change or harmonize with change in any given situation. With clear and practical explanations of each of the 64 hexagrams along with useful exercises and illustrations, the author demonstrates how drumming these simple rhythm archetypes brings the essential self into accord with the pattern or way of cyclical change, and that way is known as Tao. More than an oracle, the I Ching is the wellspring of Chinese thought, stressing the connection between humanity's destiny and the natural world. Philosophically, it describes the universe as a single, flowing, rhythmic being, and all things in it in constant cyclical change. Everything is t'ai chi, "one universal energy," which expresses itself as two polarized yet complementary aspects, yin and yang. Yin and yang ebb and flow, creating the cycles and rhythms of life. By observing nature, the sages perceived all of the rhythms and energy patterns that arise from the interaction of yin and yang. They then coded these rhythmic patterns into a "book of life." The I Ching's sixty-four hexagrams represent a code or program of the operating principle of life itself. Each six-line configuration is the visual representation of a rhythm archetype. The image pattern of each hexagram generates a particular drum pattern based on the sequence of the yin and yang lines. Each rhythmic pattern pulsates a particular resonance, which stimulates, works with, and informs the body, mind, and spirit in the most optimal manner for effecting change or harmonizing with change. For the drummer, then, there is a need for a version of the I Ching that conveys the resonant qualities and attributes of these archetypal rhythms. My purpose in this new interpretation is to fulfill this need. The drummer may then utilize it as a gauge, a precise means for placing oneself in relation to the pattern or way of cyclical change. Find an I Ching Rhythm for your need of the moment.

In his third drum guide, Shamanic Drumming: Calling the Spirits, Michael Drake recounts his journey into shamanic practice and explores what someone should do if they feel the call to become a shaman. Following up on his definitive handbook on shamanic drumming, The Shamanic Drum, the author provides a new series of exercises and lessons that allow for a deeper understanding and utilization of this core shamanic practice. He has written a guide to becoming a shamanic healer that encompasses the power of the drum, of community, and of the accountability inherent in authentic shamanic practice.This empowering book is a call to build relationships with helping spirits. Spirit helpers are the caretakers in the unseen world who want to support the earth and her inhabitants at this time. They are here to teach us how to gather wisdom from the spiritual realms, the natural world, the past, the present and the future in order to give birth to new ways of being. The shamanic relationship between humans and helping spirits supports our spirit's quest for self-realization. The spirits are here to assist us in doing the principal, unique thing we have come here to do in a way that benefits all living things.

Indigenous shamanic peoples of diverse cultures have gathered in community drumming circles for thousands of years. Although most of us did not grow up in an indigenous shamanic tradition, we can still tap into the healing power of shamanic drumming. Drawing upon twenty-five years of experience, shamanic practitioner Michael Drake has written a step-by-step guide to shamanic circling. In Shamanic Drumming Circles Guide, Drake offers some guidelines for anyone considering forming a shamanic drumming circle. The guidelines are also meant to help established drumming circles go deeper and become more effective. For anyone searching for a drumming circle, this guide can help you find the right circle for you. A shamanic drumming circle is a place for practitioners to get together for learning, healing, and the direct revelation of spiritual guidance. A drumming circle provides an opportunity to connect with your own spirit at a deeper level, and also to connect with a group of other like-minded people. In a society in which traditional family and community-based systems of support have become increasingly fragmented, drumming circles provide a sense of connectedness with others and interpersonal support. Shamanic drumming circles serve many functions. Foremost among them are: -Providing a consistent, safe and supportive space to practice shamanism;-Deepening the participants' relationships with their helping spirits through shamanic practice;-Providing help, healing and support for individuals and for the community;-Building and strengthening shamanic community;-Developing key drum skills such as rhythmicity, ensemble playing and therapeutic drumming;-Acquiring shamanic knowledge through collaborative sharing and from helping spirits through direct revelation.

The Great Shift is about the new era of humanity. We have entered the new epoch of humanity's spiritual evolutionary journey into higher consciousness. Our present world is one in which order is arising out of chaos. Everything is changing and seeking equilibrium. The conditions are nothing short of a rebirth. We are quite literally witnesses and participants in the shift from individual to planetary consciousness. We are part of the emerging consciousness, and the signs are everywhere. It is here now, and we all have a part to play in it.This book is a guide to navigating the shift from an old paradigm into a new one. It is deeply rooted in the shamanic and Taoist traditions, which are a fountain of wisdom and knowledge for restoring our relationship with the Earth. Shamanism and Taoism are a way of living in harmony with nature, rather than an adherence to a religious doctrine. By practicing these ways of being, we awaken our soul calling and our connection to nature. They provide a myriad of responses to the spiritual quest of self-discovery. They are ways that embed us in the living web of life, yielding greater awareness and perspective. These practices are easily integrated into contemporary life and provide a means of navigating the turbulent times in which we live.

Through coloring, you can bring these vibrant images to life and create your own unique versions of these beautiful characters. With each page, you'll learn about the different cultures and traditions that make our world a rich and colorful place. Our coloring book is perfect for early readers who are just starting to explore the world around them. It's a great tool to help children develop their creativity and fine motor skills, while also teaching them about diversity and inclusion in a fun and engaging way. So grab your favorite colors and let's get started We hope this coloring book brings joy and inspiration to you and your family, and helps to foster a world where everyone is celebrated and valued for who they are.

This book examines the evolution of China’s entrepreneurial class and prospects for entrepreneurial-driven political institutional change. The author argues that decades of economic reforms and social transformation have illuminated a fundamental contradiction in contemporary China—a rule by law closed political system governing over an emergent entrepreneurial class requiring property protection—that requires resolution. The author argues that the Chinese Communist Party has one of two choices: crush the entrepreneurial class, and with it, economic growth and the party’s legitimacy, or cede to the entrepreneurs’ demands for the rule of law and political representation. The author’s interviews with Chinese entrepreneurs show the rise of liberal qualities—rationality, autonomy, property-law interests, political awareness and political agency—among China’s new entrepreneurial class. As such, the author believes that this liberal trajectory among China’s entrepreneurs, in conjunction with a lack of viable alternatives for the party, will translate into a new Chinese liberalism and ultimately political change.

What if embracing death is the secret to truly living? The Paradox of a Mortal Mind isn't a guide to dying-it's an invitation to live. In this refreshingly candid and deeply human exploration of mortality, Michael Drake shares personal stories, philosophical wisdom, and real-world insights that challenge us to rethink our relationship with death-not with fear, but with courage, clarity, and compassion. After the unexpected loss of a close friend and a flood of memories from his childhood, Michael was forced to confront life's ultimate truth: we're not here forever. That realization led him down a path of self-reflection, inspired by ancient Stoics like Marcus Aurelius and Seneca, and grounded in personal moments shared with his grandfather, mentors, and his own family. Through stories, humor, and thoughtful questions, Michael invites readers to reflect on what matters most-how we spend our time, who we spend it with, and the legacy we leave behind. From confronting fear to finding humility, building deeper relationships, and even planning your own funeral with joy (yes, joy ), this book is about shifting your perspective so you can live with intention and heart. You won't find rigid steps or abstract theory here. Instead, you'll find a relatable, honest voice encouraging you to pause, breathe, and remember: our time is limited, and that's what makes it so valuable. Whether you're grieving a loss, facing a life transition, or simply tired of rushing through life on autopilot, The Paradox of a Mortal Mind will leave you with a renewed sense of purpose-and the courage to live like you mean it.