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This paper will draw upon an anthropological field study exploring new religious movements – in particular neo-shamanism – which I am currently undertaking. The research employs the participant observation method and deals with a typical feature of many of these movements: the intentional bringing about of altered states of consciousness and subsequent unusual experiences (visions) to use as part of spiritual practice. According to neo-shamans, their spiritual journeys take place in a trance. However, as I dis...