What is it about shamanism?

[moonvoice.livejournal.com]

Assuming you're actually interested in the practice or research of shamanism / spiritual animism; what is it about shamanism, or shamanistic techniques (such as drumming, chanting, trance-work, otherworldly journeying, soul retrieval and healing, possession, initiatory journeys, totemism, community healing, connecting with local land spirits etc.) that interest you?

Are there any specific shamanic techniques that you’ve heard of, that really interest you? Why is that? And are there any techniques that you’ve heard of that turn you off, or don’t interest you at all?