chenevey asked this question on 2/5/2000:

Im not sure if you are the right person to ask this question to, so please do not be offended by my ignorance. Here goes. I have always been interested in werewolfs, and other forms of shapeshifting. I have read alot of fiction and non-fiction on the subject. I just wanted another opinion, do you believe that shape shifting is real? If so, could you offer any new information helping me to determine if it is real or myth. Thanks Steven.

Strix gave this response on 2/8/2000:

What you are speaking of is shapeshifting. The following is an excerpt on shapeshifting from and forth coming article in the Cup of Wonder, titled On Shamanism, Part 2, "There are two types of shapeshifting: 1. Changing your human form to an animal form (which is probably where the were- stories begin). 2. Changing astral form to that of a power animal. Power animals are a similar to totems, but are used as required, for whatever particular power that animal possesses. . Shamans are said to be able to do both. (Matthews, The Celtic Shaman: A Handbook pages 56-58) There is a third form of shapeshifting that is less talked about, but more common. During certain rituals or ceremonies e participants have become so enthralled during the drumming and dancing that they take on the characteristics of animals; and growl like a bears; bay at the moon like wolves; scream like eagles; all while acting out the physical aspects of the animals; walking on all fours, etc. This is more common among the Native American population than other aborigine tribes all around the world. (Steiger, page, 64-70). Shapeshifting for the neo-shamans is primarily that of a personal transformation. That being, neo-shamans will use creative visualization to take on characteristics of the animal or totem whose qualities the neo-shaman finds desirable. Thus adding the totem strengths too their own. Many, of the modern psycho-therapeutic methods have their roots in shamanism, because they do, neo-shamans often explain their journeys as an "inner " journey to the unconscious or the "higher self." This explanation is based on the neo-shaman point of view and while generally refers to traditional shamanic journey and may it appearance use several similar techniques, is no way the same. Neo-shamanism does not allow for actual Otherworld journeys and this will hamper their abilities to heal others. While creative visualization is not to be taken lightly it is more for personal healing and growth and in no way should be misconstrued as actual traditional shamanic journeywork. From the traditional shamans point of view the Otherworld exists as a parallel world, totally independent of this one. Thus, existing independent of our minds. The traditional shaman knows that each living thing has a soul, and that by journeying to these spirits you will be able to communicate with them. Just like not all shamans are healers or religious leaders. Shapeshifting is not a primary ability that shamans possess." Cowan, Tom Shamanism: As a Spiritual Practice for Daily Life, CA, The Crossing Press Freedom 1996 ISBN# 0-89594-838-9 Matthews, John The Celtic Shaman: A Handbook, Boston, MA Element Books 1992 ISBN# 1-85230-245-3 Steiger, Brad Totems: The Transformative Power of Your Personal Animal Totem SanFrancisco, CA Harper 1997 ISBN# 0-06-251425-3 Hope that answers your question

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chenevey rated this answer a 5.

You really put some effort into this answer. Thank you for your time.