Dawne Sanson has practised as a naturopath, incorporating medical herbalism and craniosacral therapy in her healing work for over 35 years. This led to an awareness of, and curiosity about subtle energies, resulting in an experiential exploration of shamanism and contemporary shamanic healing. Dawne completed her doctorate Taking the Spirits Seriously in 2012, a study based in Aotearoa. During her research she met contemporary shamans (neo-shamans) and Māori healers, attended shamanic workshops and vision quests. She still regards herself as a curious explorer of shamanism, and particularly appreciates opportunities to deepen this exploration with others within a ritually-created sacred space.