In this case I am sharing my personal experience with my shaman. This is not the only form of shamanism. Please share your experiences as each shaman specializes in different techniques, intentions, etc.

Vetting - first off, shaman's experience near death experience to be initiated and receive extensive training from elders. 

• dreams
• divination - runes 
• ancestral cleansing
• white ritual
• burning, ash, milk
• offerings 
• communicating with ancestors 
• crystals