Shamans have the knowledge of how to enter into communication with these spirits, and serve their community by doing so. The shamanic perspective holds an integrated view of the universe, one that crosses the boundaries of ordinary and non ordinary reality, the physical and the spiritual. One of the consequences of an integrated view of the universe is that action in one realm has an effect in another. Sickness is viewed as an imbalance in both the individual and the cosmos. The shaman mediates between the worlds in order to reestablish balance.
Treatment therefore creates a healing in both realms.
The shamans role is integral to the community and embedded in the culture. Well-being in the shamanic sense is not limited to physical and mental health as we have become accustomed to thinking. It also includes success in business, warfare, prosperity, employment, children, love and friendship. These require flow and balance both within and between the worlds. This requires attention, intention and exchange.