By Shannon Davis, Apu Mamma Aku

Returning to Peru—the homeland of the indigenous teachings that first found me here in America—has transformed my life in ways I could never have imagined. Walking through hidden valleys, standing before the ancient mountains, visiting sacred sites untouched by tourism, and meeting our Altomesayoq elder Don Humberto and his son has been an experience beyond words.

This lineage reshaped how I think, how I heal, and how I meet life’s challenges. People often say to me, “I’ve never seen you angry,” or “Do you ever get frustrated?” And the truth is—yes, I do. I am human.

But the medicine has taught me to move my emotions through the four perspectives, through the eyes of Spirit. What once lived inside me for weeks, months, or even years now moves in seconds, sometimes minutes, and on the harder days, a few hours.

I no longer hold anger toward a society that has been conditioned to react the way it does. Instead, I choose how I show up. My heart is softer. My awareness is deeper. My connection to Spirit is stronger.

Traveling to Peru and learning from the Paqos—the

indigenous shamans of the Andes—offers a perspective that is both humbling and awakening, especially for an American. You witness how life can be simple yet incredibly fulfilling. And you realize the peace you feel there is not something you must chase across continents… it is something you can bring home inside your own heart.

To travel into the high mountains—the Blanco Apus with their snow-capped crowns—and feel their wisdom is indescribable.

To sit in ceremony at ancient sites that most travelers never discover.

To listen to the elders, to share their teachings, to learn from them side by side.

To connect with the Quechua people, the language, the food, the culture, and the Incan history…

These experiences have shaped me deeply.

But the greatest beauty for me is guiding others through this journey—watching them awaken to who they truly are, release long-held shadows, and remember their own soul’s wisdom. I once had an elder look at me during ceremony and say:

“You Americans… you have many traumas, yes?”

I gently replied, “Yes, our way of life is different. These teachings are helping us release them.”

He nodded and said,

“This is why it has been shared with you.”

My heart knew he was right.

There is so much I could say about Peru—its people, its magic, its spiritual beauty—but today I simply want to share this truth:

This journey has changed my life.

I have a few greatest joys in my life:

•My grandchildren and my children, who light up my heart

• Guiding people to overcome their shadows through sacred wisdom

• Traveling the world and carrying the teachings where Spirit leads me

Someday my grandchildren will be old enough to travel with me—but until then, my heart is full. And if today were my last breath, I would leave this world feeling complete:

I have loved.

I have guided.

I have healed where I could.

I have lived with purpose.

And I am grateful beyond measure.

Thank you for reading my story today.

Thank you for walking this sacred path with me.

Aho,

Love,

Shannon Davis

Mama Aku (Apu Mamma Aku)