Have you heard about a shaman?
A Shaman is a person who practices shamanism.
In short, a shaman is a energy expert who establishes personal connections with spirit beings. By using altered states of consciousness, these shamans utilize their powers to heal, guide the deceased, influence nature, protect their communities, and engage in spiritual practices.
In this context, Nikki Hainstock’s The Shaman Wears Lipstick offers a compelling case.
This memoir and guide blend ancient shamanic wisdom with modern sensibilities. It offers readers a profound journey into self-discovery and spiritual transformation. With candid storytelling, Nikki recounts her life. She reveals how shamanic practices transformed her perspective and empowered her to live authentically.
The book begins with Nikki’s personal experiences of feeling disconnected despite trying traditional healing modalities like psychiatry and hypnotherapy. After years of searching, her turning point comes when she witnesses a close friend undergo a dramatic transformation using the Medicine Wheel, which is a foundational tool in shamanic practice.
Inspired, Nikki begins her shamanic journey, leading her to tools like Soul Retrievals and Affinity Removals, which change her life and become her calling to help others.
One of the book’s standout themes is the concept of “Right Relationship.” Nikki emphasizes the importance of living in harmony—with oneself, the Earth, and the spiritual forces that govern existence. To do this, she encourages us to shed the societal and emotional baggage that prevents us from living fully. For example, Nikki recounts a powerful healing session where she helped a client release deep-seated patterns of fear and resentment. With the help of Affinity Removal, the client, previously stuck in self-sabotaging behaviors, experienced immediate relief and clarity.
Another memorable moment comes when Nikki reflects on the serpent. Just as a snake sheds its skin, she explains, we too must release old identities and roles to grow into our fullest selves and to move further in life.
The Shaman Wears Lipstick also explores how Nikki integrates her spiritual practices into the modern world. From working with prisoners in Canadian correctional facilities to guiding diverse communities across North America, her memoir demonstrates the universal relevance of shamanic teachings that can be practiced by all. Her ability to bridge ancient wisdom with contemporary challenges makes the book both inspiring and practical.
What sets this book apart is Nikki’s genuine voice. She approaches heavy topics like trauma, loss, and self-doubt with humility and humor. Plus, her writing is less about preaching and more about being genuine and applicable—which invites us to explore our own paths to healing and self-discovery.
Overall, The Shaman Wears Lipstick is transformative for anyone seeking deeper connection, clarity, and purpose. Whether you’re new to shamanism, a seasoned practitioner, or anyone looking for a different way to approach life and its various states and challenges, Nikki’s insights and personal stories will inspire you to embrace your journey toward authenticity and joy.
“As it started and ended and then ended again, may this book grow seeds for you and may those seeds help you grow beauty in your world and in the World.” — Nikki Hainstock.