In a world that often seems tumultuous and overwhelming, there emerges a beacon of hope for those who feel the depths of sensitivity. Josie Bray, a seasoned Shamanic Practitioner, Somatic Therapist, and self-proclaimed “Chakra Nerd,” has made it her life’s mission to guide sensitive individuals through the intricate journey from anxiety to stability. With a unique blend of ancient wisdom, modern therapeutic techniques, and a profound understanding of the intricate energy centers within, Josie empowers her clients to navigate life with newfound confidence and clarity. Join Mystic Mag as we delve into the transformative realm of Josie’s practice, where the sacred meets the practical, and the journey from vulnerability to strength becomes a path well-traveled.
As a shamanic practitioner and somatic therapist, how do you integrate these two modalities to create a holistic approach in helping sensitive individuals move from anxiety to stability?
I have studied these modalities separately. Somatic therapy was my primary focus with my teacher Eric Franklin during the years I spent studying Franklin Method. But I also gained personal experience in healing PTSD with several practitioners who worked with different modalities, including EMDR, shamanic practices, and other body-based techniques. I was immersed in the Franklin Method and working on my own trauma healing when shamanic practice started entering my life, contributing to my overall well-being. When these modalities converged in my own body, it altered the way I experienced the world.
It was miraculous for me—considering how unwell I was for so long. However, it took several disciplined years of practice. Along the way, I had wonderful coaches and people who genuinely helped me. I had three different coaches initially, and later I also began working with a yoga mentor. Over time, I realized that these diverse modalities complemented each other exceptionally well. It might not be the same for everyone, but for me, these three different modalities synergized effectively.
That’s how I began developing my methodology—it was akin to making soup. It wasn’t about one modality being the perfect fit for me; rather, it was about combining groups of modalities to create a holistic approach. When I “ate” the soup, I experienced significant improvement. I realized there might be others who would benefit from this unique blend, so I began to share it.
Somatic work involves body-based practices to reduce tension. The Franklin Method not only reduces tension but also incorporates imagery and functional anatomy to help people understand how their bodies are designed to function. It operates mainly on the material plane, utilizing imagination to enhance physical well-being.
Shamanic practice, in contrast, delves into the karmic and ancestral realms. It requires a deep imaginative journey, often facilitated by drumming. Clients come to me through various avenues—some are already on a spiritual path and are more interested in shamanic work. Others seek relief from physical issues, like hip pain, having heard of the Franklin Method as a form of superior physical therapy. Some approach me for anxiety, as they’ve heard about my effective approach in that area.
As we work together, the initial focus might shift based on their needs. It’s like offering different elements of a soup or presenting a sushi platter. Clients discover what resonates with them the most, and my role is to guide them through a tailored combination of modalities that suits their unique preferences and challenges.
Being a self-proclaimed “Chakra Nerd,” can you share a specific example of how balancing or working with chakras has positively impacted someone’s journey from anxiety to a state of confidence and clarity?
Yes, absolutely. I have an annual program called “Chakras and Embodiment,” which launches in September. This is a nine-month group experience centered around the chakra system. We dedicate one month to each chakra and the program aims to provide a deeply embodied experience.
In the vast realm of the internet, there is an abundance of information on the chakras. For example, you can read a list of ten ways to open your third eye. In my program, the focus is on how to embody these practices. Not everyone should have their third eye wide open at all times, as it may lead to challenges in setting boundaries and self-regulation. It’s about making conscious choices regarding our energy.
During the previous run of this program, when we reached the third eye chakra, I posed a question to the participants. Given that your listeners and readers likely have some familiarity with the chakra system, I’ll assume they understand the context. The question was, “What would it take for you to change your mind?” One student was confident in her knowledge and felt compelled to express herself, certain that her opinion was the correct one. Through the course, she discovered the importance of pausing and considering alternative perspectives. She learned that the perception of having all the answers doesn’t make it so; there is an art to editing our words and being able to understand the complexity of things. Learning to pause before we speak is an incredibly useful skill.
Trauma and systemic oppression can understandably evoke outrage and anger. While these emotions are valid, responding with violence doesn’t resolve the issues. It becomes crucial to learn how to metabolize these emotions and embody peace.
Often, we believe we have all the answers or receive divine insights, but it might not be true. Engaging in this work helps individuals become more grounded and stable, and they may realize that there are gaps in their understanding. This is a beautiful thing. This same student shared that the program taught her to listen actively. It’s about making shifts within ourselves, with our loved ones, and our communities. It involves an integrative process that requires constant reassessment of the situation.
What type of services do you offer?
I offer one-on-one sessions in shamanic work or somatic therapy, which can be conducted on Zoom. I do provide in-person sessions for those in the northern Massachusetts area in the United States but am available to work with anyone globally through online one-on-one sessions.
I also host several group programs, including the Chakras and Embodiment program, a nine-month initiative launching in September for sign-ups. You can also find smaller programs on my website such as an entry-level $21.00 meditation program and a $21.00 introductory course on the chakras.
My newest offering is a training for shamanic practitioners. If you’re interested in becoming a shamanic practitioner, feel free to reach out.
Sensitivity is a key aspect of your focus. How do you tailor your approach to meet the unique needs of sensitive individuals, and what techniques have you found most effective in alleviating their anxiety?
The way I work with a person is to deeply listen to them and get a sense of what is holding them back. We live in a world that is really poisonous to us in many ways—poisonous from the foods we eat and also from the way we’ve been taught to dominate and harm other people. It’s toxic due to war, patriarchy, oppression, and various systems. Unfortunately, it’s the world we live in, but it doesn’t have to be that way. I firmly believe that change is possible.
Many of my clients feel like something is deeply wrong, either with themselves or with the way the world is being run. So, we work on a personal level, examining how this craziness affects their bodies and nervous systems. The goal is self-improvement first. As they say on airplanes, you put your own oxygen mask on first before assisting your loved ones. This principle applies here; one needs stability before helping others.
I work deeply one-on-one with people, offering a variety of modalities tailored to their specific needs at each stage of their healing process. My intention is to make myself obsolete—I don’t want clients to keep relying on me indefinitely. Instead, I aim to empower them to help others, contributing to the stability and calmness the world needs.
Those who come to me tend to be sensitive individuals struggling to survive in the challenging external environment. My clients have put up some armor but are not heavily armored, and they often express a desire to make things work despite facing stress and anxiety.
We work together to achieve stability and calmness, finding clarity amid overwhelming challenges in their lives and the world around them. Ultimately, my clients make beautiful decisions on how they can positively impact others. We recognize the importance of self-care; just like skipping breakfast makes for a challenging day, neglecting our well-being hinders our ability to be our most generous selves. It’s a fundamental truth we all understand.
How do you incorporate nature or elements of shamanic practices into your therapeutic sessions to enhance the healing process for your clients?
People who are less spiritually minded may not be as open to animals and nature, so I approach this aspect with a light touch. Sometimes, during somatic therapy sessions, individuals bring in an animal, like a Raven, and we discuss it if they feel inclined. However, I try not to impose these ideas on people.
In shamanic sessions, power animals, plants, or natural elements often enter the session, and they typically manifest during a trance state. If such elements arise during the journey, we discuss how meditating or being with that natural element can contribute to a person’s energy medicine.
In your work, you mention helping individuals move beyond anxiety. How do you assist your clients in developing long-term coping mechanisms and resilience to prevent anxiety from reoccurring?
I have a series of somatic practices that I use with my clients. These practices encompass a range of body techniques that individuals can apply in various situations. For instance, when facing challenging circumstances, individuals may wonder, “What can I do right now?” Additionally, there are times when people are triggered, and although the situation’s intensity may be a three on a scale, their perception elevates it to a 10. To address this, we work on developing a toolbox of techniques and practices tailored to the individual. During our sessions, we check in on these tools, practicing and refining them. I often create videos for clients, storing them in a designated folder for easy access as a way to facilitate independent practice. The overarching goal is for clients to become self-sufficient, and I aspire to make myself obsolete in their journey toward self-improvement.
