The shamanic trance, of all that a shaman does, is the most discussed and often seen as the ultimate experience in shamanism. Shamanic trance is not something that can be achieved with a lesson from some internet site or learned completely from an internet seminar or course. Practice makes perfect is the creed.
Generally speaking, there are four basic levels of a shamanic trance. Internships might be more appropriate. It is not the intention or suggestion that a shaman go through each of these levels every time he enters a trance. A well-practiced shaman can very well go directly to the fourth level or stage of trance.
The first level is common among beginners. One has the feeling of being physically relaxed; even sleepy. There is a tendency to stare into space, without seeing. The pulse rate slows down. The second level produces a feeling that the whole body is heavy; there is a feeling of detachment. There may be visual illusions and you will realize that you are in a trance.
The third level brings the full recognition that you are in a trance. Here you can choose a part of your body to not feel pain. There is a greater sensitivity to changes in temperature as well as atmospheric pressure. There will be loss of voluntary movement and reaction to external stimuli.
The fourth and final stage or level of the shamanic trance, your eyes can open and not cause any negative effects in the trance. Control of various bodily functions such as heartbeat, blood pressure, and body temperature is made possible. Memories will be restored and age regression may come into play. There will be a feeling of lightness, floating or flying. Visual and auditory hallucinations are possible while in this level of the trance. The shaman who is in this stage travels to the time of dreams and there receives instruction from him.