Mindfulness From Africa : An Authentic Medicine Man from Nelson Mandela's Tribe - An Evening Talk

John will be hosted by InsightLA, a unique mindfulness meditation community.

Meet John Lockley, a traditional healer, Medicine man, Shaman (Sangoma) from one of the oldest Shamanic cultures in the world today, the Xhosa nation. John was adopted, apprenticed and trained by his Xhosa teacher, MaMngwevu and other elders for over 10 years.

John’s story is rich and evocative. His journey started at the age of 16 with a prophetic dream. A few years later he worked with Zen Master Su Bong, originally from Hawaii, an old friend of Trudy Goodman. John took part in Zen Master Su Bong’s retreats in South Africa and South Korea which helped lay the groundwork for his own spiritual teaching.

John will talk about his experience of mindfulness from his perspective as a traditional African healer from the rural areas of the Eastern Cape, the home of Nelson Mandela. Amongst traditional healers and elders in South Africa there is no word for mindfulness only ‘listening’ and how deep you can listen. To show that you are listening often requires a ceremony where the Great Spirit and communal Ancestors are honoured and loved.

Visiting Los Angeles for the very first time, South African, John Lockley, will also be talking about his book 'Leopard Warrior', published by Sounds True. This is an account of his remarkable journey in becoming a traditional African Shaman, known as a Sangoma, Diviner or Seer in Nelson Mandela's tribe, the Xhosa nation. It is a story about 'Ubuntu' (humanity), and it shows how in order for John to follow his medicine calling he had to go beyond the constraints of race, colour and social class. This is a ground-breaking book, pioneering consciousness study about African mindfulness, including wilderness work, indigenous shamanism & a deep exploration of dreaming to open your mind & expand your soul. 

John will be available for book signings & private sessions.

For more Info & booking please click here.