Photographer Unknown:  (Shaman with Totem Staff)

Celtic Shamans used a staff as both a symbol of authority, leadership and as a tool for spiritual journey. Often carved with mystical symbols, Celtic runes, or animals, these were the Shamans’ tools to help aid in their workings and guide their path as well as the path of their clan. The totem staff is carved and often decorated with the antlers of a deer, with leather, feathers and/or with stones or beads. Each staff is unique to it’s owner and their position in the world, giving special meaning to that person’s life and their usage of the staff.