There is one final component of shapeshifting and that is the type of transformation. Is it physical, mental, or shamanic?
Physical Transformation – I am skeptical that full physical transformation actually happens beyond mythology, folk tales, and the movies. Some people believe full and partial transformations can be generated by the manipulation of ectoplasm and etheric bodies.[1] In real life, physical transformation usually takes place using masks, make-up, and cosplay.[2]
Mental Shapeshifting – Mental shapeshifting involves meditations and trance states where the human takes on the habits and persona of their animal. They might use drumming, music, gestures, growling, howling, chanting, singing, dancing or other movement, physical triggers such as pelts or talismans, or hallucinogenic salves and ointments to achieve this state of mind. Mental shapeshifting can be combined with physical shapeshifting to experience the look and feel of your chosen animal.
Shamanic Shapeshifting – Shamanic shapeshifting uses many of the same methods as mental shapeshifting to create a trance state, but the difference is in application. Mental shapeshifting involves taking on the traits of a wolf or other animal to take on their persona in the physical world. Shamanic shapeshifting directs the mind of the practitioner to other realms of existence or to other places on our own plane. Often the shaman travels to gain knowledge and information, to experience other realms, to gain and assist spirit allies, to assist in healing or protection, to help the dead transition, or to perform various other workings. As mentioned above, shamanic shapeshifting can also involve astral projection and wolf riding.
[1] The Magic of Shapeshifting by Rosalyn Greene.
[2] Some folks refer to this as “wolf drag.”