Biographic pathways and symbolic efficacy: the dynamics of healing in Sunrise Valley

Abstract

This paper focuses on the construction of biographical narratives among adepts of the esoteric-mystical movement called Sunrise Valley, which appeared in Planaltina in the late 60’s, incorporating elements of Catholicism, Spiritualism, New Age and African-Brazilian religions. Our research aims at understanding how biographical paths are closely linked to the symbolic efficacy of the ritual processes performed by the mediums of this movement. Our analysis of the narratives will consider the process of displacement in the fields, as understood by Bourdieu, but highlighting the process of performativity given to such shifts through the interactive construction of the self.

Keywords

• Vale do Amanhecer
• Biografias
• Eficácia simbólica.