Shapeshifting Into Higher Consciousness

I attended a wonderful workshop at Omega in the summer of 2010 - Shapeshifting into Higher Consciousness.  As explained by John Perkins, one of the leaders of the program, the aim of the workshop was to, "use ancient shamanic practices to propel us to higher states of consciousness — and to experience how changing the dream can help us shapeshift not only ourselves, but the world around us."  John, along with Lyn Roberts, presented a dynamic and illuminating program that included meditation and journeying, dancing, drumming, partner and group exercises and a final evening with group presentations, offerings, dance and healing intentions for the planet.  I took a number of photographs in the workshop and orbs were everywhere.  The photo below shows a woman in the workshop kneeling at the altar.  On her back you can see, not only a traditional orb, but also the shape of something to the left of the orb.  The something on her back looks a lot like a dog - perhaps her spirit animal?