Stepping Into The Fire (2011)

'STEPPING INTO THE FIRE' is a feature length documentary that tells the story of a seemingly successful man living an unfulfilling life and his journey towards truth and happiness.What if the thoughts, values and philosophies that guided our lives were at the root of our misery and there were ancient and time honored knowledge that could truly heal our soul.This compelling film provides insight into ancient shamanic practices from deep in the Peruvian jungles, and a though provoking commentary on human spirituality and wellness.Stepping into the Fire features Roberto Velez, Donna Walsh, Bo and Jose Pineda Varges (a.k.a Maestro Mancoluto). The story begins with Roberto Velez - a high-level New York Stock Exchange trader - raised since adolescence in America, but ultimately of Peruvian descent. In the peak of his career, Velez finds himself seeking; unable to reconcile his material gains with the lack of direction and depth in his life. With nowhere else to turn, Velez scours Peru - the land of his ancestors - only to find Mancoluto, a first-level master shaman descended from one of the earliest civilizations in Amerindian history, Chavin. Mancoluto's expertise in Shamanic practices provides him a unique lens when treating Velez's predicament. Once this connection was made, Velez decides to devote his life and fortune to help other in same position by building a retreat center, named Shimbre, in middle of the Peruvian jungles.