Carl A. Hammerschlag, a psychiatrist and explorer of Native American healing, and Howard D. Silverman, a family physician, teach at the University of Arizona College of Medicine. This excellent paperback presents their view that medicine and spirit are not incompatible.
The authors define healing ceremonies as "activities that take place only on special occasions and that are consciously designed to produce beneficial effects." These activities often involve stories, expression of our visions, and pathways to inspiration and awe. Hammerschlag and Silverman outline the ceremonial seasons of a life from birth to old age with commentary on the need to deal with change, power, mastery, service, and union with God. The last segment of the book, "Creating Personal Rituals for Health," is primer on crafting special occasions for healing, forgiveness, blessing, and letting go.