Approximate reading time: 28 minutes

Our states of consciousness change as we move from wakefulness to sleep. We can also alter our consciousness through the use of various psychoactive drugs. This final section will consider dance-induced trances, meditation, hypnosis, and near-death experiences as additional examples of altered states of consciousness experienced by some individuals.

Dance as a Method to Induce Trance

Dance has been recognised as a powerful means to reach altered states of consciousness, a unique mental state different from our normal waking condition. This phenomenon is not just a modern discovery but has roots in ancient practices, such as shamanic rituals, and extends to contemporary dance forms.

Research shows that dance can trigger changes in the brain, particularly in the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for complex behaviours and decision making. This change is similar to what happens in altered states of consciousness (Dietrich, 2003). For example, the San trance dance, a traditional practice, combines intense physical activity and emotional expression, leading to altered perceptions and a sense of distortion in the body’s experience (Campbell, 2022).

Modern dance therapies also utilise these principles. They focus on using dance as a form of embodied consciousness, helping individuals reconnect with their bodies and emotions, often aiding in healing psychological and physical traumas (Barrero González, 2018).

Dance can bring about states similar to meditation or trance. This is seen in various cultural practices, including ceremonials of Indigenous People and Balinese dance rituals, where dance is a medium for spiritual and therapeutic experiences (Wilson & Ward, 1991; White, 2018).

In essence, dance (and drumming), in its many forms, is not just an art or a form of exercise. It’s a gateway to experiencing different levels of consciousness, offering both therapeutic benefits and a deeper understanding of the human psyche. This connection between dance and altered states of consciousness highlights the profound impact of cultural and artistic practices on mental health and well-being.

Watch this video: How Shamanic Dancing Leads to Altered States of Consciousness (4 minutes)

“How Shamanic Dancing Leads to Altered States of Consciousness” video by Gaia is licensed under the Standard YouTube licence.

Meditation

Meditation is the act of focusing on a single target (such as the breath or a repeated sound) to increase awareness of the moment. Meditation can be practiced alone. Often, however, people wishing to learn to meditate receive some training in techniques to achieve a meditative state. Although there are a number of different techniques in use, the central feature of all meditation is clearing the mind in order to achieve a state of relaxed awareness and focus (Chen et al., 2013; Lang et al., 2012). Meditation, once considered a complementary and integrative technique, has gained substantial recognition in the scientific community for its benefits in promoting balance, relaxation, self-control, and consciousness development (Sampaio, Lima, & Ladeia, 2017). These benefits extend across various domains of health and well-being.

Mantra-based meditation techniques have been shown to produce small-to-moderate significant reductions in symptoms such as anxiety, depression, stress, and post-traumatic stress (Álvarez-Pérez et al., 2022). This finding is crucial, as it underscores the potential of meditation as a non-pharmacological intervention in managing various mental health conditions. Furthermore, mindfulness meditation, a specific form of meditation practice, has been positively linked to mental and physical health improvements, particularly in stress coping mechanisms (Trousselard, Steiler, Claverie, & Canini, 2014).

From a neurobiological perspective, meditation has been found to reduce stress-related autonomic and endocrine measures while increasing the regulation of brain regions involved in affect regulation and attention control (Rubia, 2009). These changes suggest that meditation can potentially improve mental and physical health by altering the way our brain responds to stress and emotional stimuli.

Additionally, meditation’s impact on cognitive processes cannot be overlooked. Different meditation techniques, such as focused attention, open monitoring, and loving kindness, have been observed to have differential effects on cognitive processes like attentional selection and conflict monitoring (Lippelt, Hommel, & Colzato, 2014). This indicates that meditation, depending on the type of practice, can enhance certain cognitive abilities.

The methodological challenges of studying meditation, however, are noteworthy. Current methods for studying meditation’s brain activity changes are methodologically challenging, and technical considerations impact one’s interpretation. This suggests a need for more refined research methodologies in future studies to better understand the complex effects of meditation (Deolindo et al., 2020).

In conclusion, the recent scientific literature presents a compelling case for the inclusion of meditation in psychological practices and interventions. Its diverse benefits, ranging from mental health improvements to cognitive enhancements, make it a valuable tool in the field of psychology.

In conclusion, meditation is a powerful tool in psychology and personal health. It has roots in religious practices but is now widely used for health benefits. Studies show it can help with blood pressure, stress, sleep, mood, anxiety, and pain management. Different types of meditation, like focusing on a word or being aware of the present, have different benefits. This makes meditation a valuable practice for both mental and physical health.

Watch this video: Scans ‘show mindfulness meditation brain boost’ (3 minutes)

Hypnosis

Hypnosis is a psychological phenomenon characterised by heightened focus, reduced peripheral awareness, and an enhanced capacity to respond to suggestion. This state involves extreme self-focus with minimal attention to external stimuli. Clinicians in therapeutic settings often employ relaxation and suggestion to influence a client’s thoughts and perceptions. Despite its occasional use in attempting to enhance memory recall, it’s crucial to acknowledge the lack of strong evidence supporting hypnosis’s efficacy in this area.

Historically, hypnosis has been viewed with a mix of intrigue and skepticism, partly due to its portrayal in popular media and entertainment (Figure SC.22). It’s important to differentiate between hypnosis as a scientifically supported therapeutic technique and its depiction as entertainment. This distinction clarifies hypnosis’s real potential in clinical and research contexts. Brain imaging studies confirm that hypnotic states induce global changes in brain function, showcasing its significant impact on the mind (Del Casale et al., 2012; Guldenmund et al., 2012; Landry et al., 2017; Tuominen et al., 2019; Coco Marinella et al., 2019). Contrary to common myths, individuals under hypnosis typically remember their experiences and remain in control of their actions.

Research into the effectiveness of hypnosis reveals its limitations and potential risks, especially in forensic contexts where it can lead to memory distortion (Dasgupta, Juza, White, & Maloney, 1994; Kebbell & Wagstaff, 1998). While hypnosis may prompt earlier autobiographical memories, this does not guarantee accuracy and may increase susceptibility to false information (Green, 1999; Klatzky & Erdelyi, 1985).

As a therapy, hypnotherapy has been shown to be very good at helping with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and is showing promise as an alternative to cognitive behavioural therapy for depression and psychosomatic disorders (Galovski & Blanchard, 1998; Gonsalkorale, 2006; Chiarioni, Palsson, & Whitehead, 2008; Agrawal & Whorwell, 2005; Schaefert et al., 2014; Fuhr et al., 2021; Flammer & Alladin, 2007). These findings highlight hypnotherapy’s potential as a complementary treatment across various medical and psychological conditions.

In summary, hypnosis works by carefully mixing attention and suggestibility. Empirical research supports the value of hypnosis in both psychological and medical interventions. Its study offers us insights into human consciousness, illustrating the many ways in which our minds can be influenced and healed.

Watch this video: Tricky Topics: Hypnosis (8 minutes)

“Tricky Topics: Hypnosis” video by FirstYearPsych Dalhousie is licensed under the Standard YouTube licence.

Near-Death Experiences

Recent research into near-death experiences (NDEs) has significantly expanded our understanding of altered states of consciousness, particularly in life-threatening situations like cardiac arrest. Studies have shown that during cardiac arrest, individuals may experience vivid recollections, encounters with deceased loved ones, or sensations of moving through a tunnel towards a bright light. These experiences, often described as more “real” than everyday life, challenge the belief that consciousness ceases when the heart stops. Evidence suggests that the brain can remain active and capable of complex cognitive processes, even in the absence of a detectable heartbeat. This research provides insight into the resilience and capabilities of the human brain under extreme stress and opens new avenues for exploring consciousness beyond traditional physiological boundaries.

The implications of NDE research are profound, offering a new lens through which to view consciousness. Unlike states induced by dance, meditation, or hypnosis, which are actively sought or cultivated, NDEs are spontaneous and unexpected, providing unique insights into the nature of consciousness. This area of study enriches psychological understanding of altered states and offers a new perspective on life and consciousness at the edge of death. As we continue to study NDEs we will uncover more about the relationship between the brain, consciousness, and what it means to be alive.

Summary: Other States of Consciousness

This section begins with an exploration of dance as a pathway to trance, highlighting traditional practices like the San trance dance and the Whirling Dervish. These examples illustrate how dance, especially when combined with drumming, serves as a powerful tool for reaching altered states of consciousness. These practices are sacred, possessing deep cultural and spiritual significance within their communities.

Meditation is then discussed as a method for altering consciousness, with a focus on its benefits for mental well-being and cognitive enhancement. Scientific research demonstrates that meditation has a significant impact on the brain, underscoring its beneficial effects. Several types of meditation are discussed.

Another fascinating state of consciousness that exhibits increased suggestibility and focused attention is hypnosis. The section touches on the therapeutic potential of hypnosis, suggesting its ability to alter perceptions, behaviours, and emotional states in significant ways.

The phenomenon of near-death experiences (NDEs) is also explored. One hypothesis suggests that during a near-death experience, when the brain flatlines, it removes natural inhibitory systems, potentially allowing access to new dimensions of reality and enabling vivid recall of memories spanning from early childhood to death. Contrary to common belief, the brain does not die immediately after oxygen deprivation, which opens possibilities for developing treatments to restart the heart or prevent brain injury in patients who have technically experienced death.

Image Attributions

Figure SC.22. Figure 4.20 as found in Psychology 2e by OpenStax is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License.