Guide to shamanism that takes readers on a journey from its origins in Europe, North America, Siberia and the Arctic Circle through to contemporary rituals to try today. Illustrated with cultural images, totems and people, shaman John Matthews reveals the rich animistic traditions of this ancient spirituality and reveals how it can empower one's life. Discover: the significance of power animals; healing with spirit guides; shapeshifting--moving into different states of being; working with totems; shamanic drumming and trance; and vision questing--finding guidance in meditation and dream experiences.