Amos, Patrick David2009-11-102009-11-1020062009-11-10http://hdl.handle.net/1828/1836In this thesis I explore a connection between my personal experiences of paranormal (non-ordinary) consciousness, modern consciousness research, indigenous perspectives on health, and the spiritual pursuit of compassion. My methodology is grounded in a notion of `direct experience' and what comes of it. Insights are derived primarily from direct experience through a process of self-observation and reflection whilst under the tutelage of a number of indigenous-minded Elders with whom I have long standing relationships. Research insights are conveyed through narrative writing, providing both a vehicle for carrying autobiographical stories of synchronicity, mystical encounter, and yogic/shamanic healing and a paradigmatic framework through which to represent and make meaning of experience. Through story-telling I work to demonstrate applications of be-coming (being directly aware of) felt-sense experience and deepening my acceptance of said experience. My intention throughout this writing is to demonstrate the efficacy and value of paranormal consciousness as a vehicle for deepening one's compassion, and enhancing our personal and collective well-being.enAvailable to the World Wide Webcompassionspiritual lifeUVic Subject Index::Humanities and Social Sciences::Education::Curriculum planningJourney into compassion: explorations through spiritual practice and ordealThesis