Hosted by Rosemary Davies-Janes. Produced by J’aime Rothbard.    SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: Click here to apply for the February, 2025 Compassionate Inquiry®️ Professional Training. You will find all relevant information about the year long program and locate the application form.  Applications close on December 15. https://compassionateinquiry.com/online-training/ In this interview, Ricardo explains how he interweaves various therapeutic modalities; Buddhism, Compassionate Inquiry®, Somatic and Shamanic practices, to support unique transformative journeys where healing can transcend the ordinary and touch the soul. Within his multifaceted approach, he recognizes Compassionate inquiry® as a powerful tool that invites clients to safely explore their traumas. Ricardo notes that many find resolution through this process alone, foregoing other experiences, such as shamanic ceremonies and somatic explorations.  His holistic approach creates a tapestry that nurtures the body, mind, soul and spirit. To that end, he also uses a Medicine Wheel framework and its five archetypes and elements to guide clients through different phases of healing: Awaken to your deepest truths with the serpent; reclaim your power with the jaguar; celebrate your unique gifts with the hummingbird; and take flight on your personal journey with the eagle and condor.  Ricardo's unique multifaceted one-on-one guidance offers access to ceremonial healing, new gateways of insight, and profound experiences that provide glimpses into higher consciousness. With his fraternal support and guidance, Ricardo’s clients can experience somatic healing through physical engagement and/or connection with nature, and access non-human wisdom through shamanic practices or plant medicine ceremonies. Ricardo stresses the importance of commitment in the healing journey, where spiritual tourism is but another egoic distraction, as true transformation requires the surrendering of old patterns and embracing of new experiences. He also highlights the value of having a guide throughout the healing process, akin to traditional indigenous practices where community support plays a crucial role in individual healing. Ricardo Assis Rosa, PhD, Spiritual Coach In my practice, I blend diverse methods and traditions to help clients access compassion, healing, and integration of past experiences, fostering a life of inner freedom, purpose, joy, and love. I work with both individuals and groups, focusing on trauma healing, personal develop- ment, and transformational life coaching. As a certified Compassionate Inquiry practitioner, shamanic practitioner, and ceremonial guide, I draw on foundations in Tibetan Buddhism, Andean, and Amazonian traditions. These teachings, along with meditation practices, offer a path to emotional clarity, inner freedom, and joyful presence. Through individual and group retreats, I create spaces for deep exploration and embodied practice, allowing people to break through barriers and patterns that limit their potential. I’m a father of two and reside in Oxfordshire, UK. Originally from South Africa and raised in Sintra, Portugal, I've called the UK home for over 24 years, and enjoy a life enriched by global experiences. Resources: Websites Professional Website Compassionate Inquiry Profile Books The Way of the Shaman The Mahāmudrā. Fifty Stanzas of Guru-Devotion The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness & Healing in a Toxic Culture The Way of the Conscious Warrior The Great Seal Ayahuasca: Soul Medicine of the Amazon Jungle Somawise The Power of Now Crazy Wisdom Wisdom Wheel: A Mythic Journey through the Four Directions Podcasts Featuring Ricardo Oxford University Psychedelic Society On The Verge, Shamanism - Part 1 On The Verge, Principles of Consciousness - Part 2 On The Verge, Conversations… -  Part 3 Recommended Podcasts Emerald Podcast by Joshua Schrei Awakening From the Meaning Crisis Quotes: “Do not dwell in the pa