Magical Passes

Historical Context and Significance

The book «Magical Passes» by Carlos Castaneda is part of a series of works dedicated to the study and practice of the ancient shamanic traditions of the Yaqui Indians. In this book, Castaneda describes physical movements that, according to him, were passed down to him by his teacher, the shaman don Juan Matus. These movements, known as magical passes, are intended to help practitioners achieve altered states of consciousness and increase their level of awareness. The historical significance of the book lies in its influence on popularizing the ideas of shamanism and esoteric practices in Western culture. It has contributed to the growing interest in alternative spiritual practices and self-discovery, inspiring many people to explore and practice various forms of spiritual development. The book also sparked discussions about the authenticity of the described practices and their effectiveness, making it an important part of the cultural dialogue on spirituality and self-improvement.