Shamans possess a special knowledge of healing and a vast awareness of how the spirit world works-they are technicians of the sacred, animists who understand that everything is alive and use this wisdom to help others: Empower yourself with this sumptuously illustrated guide by doing practical and spiritual acts that deepen your relationship with the forces of the universe. Chanting, smudging with smoke and sage, and even crafting all further the mystical journey and enable you to see the wonder of life. Take what the earth so generously gives--feathers beads, cloth and from plants and skin from animals--and draw inspiration from this bounty, fashioning them into medicine fans, wheels, and bags. Call to the spirits, using ceremonial songs and blessings. Connect to the three worlds, and practice "personal medicine" that heals the soul. From embarking on a vision quest to using psychic protection techniques, these are the ways to open the mind and spirit.