Trance and possession states are a worldwide phenomena, usually voluntarily induced. Practically everyone has at one time or another fallen into a trance or possession state, either spontaneously or induced by drugs or by circumstances such as extreme stress, physical exertion or deprivation. In the West, trance and possession phenomena are for the most part associated with bad things-demonic...
The idea of mana permeates the customs of many cultures, including modern cultures. Mana provides the theoretical basis for such beliefs as animism, totemism, witchcraft, and sorcery. Mana is the means by which power is transmitted from one being to another. It means, roughly speaking, power, but a force altogether distinct from physical power-a power associated with a spirit, a totemic...
Shamanism is a widespread healing discipline, grounded in animism. Healing, divination, rain-making and settling disputes are among the shaman’s duties. Many people rely on shamans for primary health care and spiritual guidance. The mind, body and spirit are treated as a unit by shamans. The shaman will seek to determine the supernatural cause of an illness. This can be anything from the...