Trance
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The term "trance" may be associated with [[meditation]], [[magic]], [[Flow (psychology)|flow]] and [[prayer]].
{{Two other uses||the genre of electronic music|Trance music||}}
'''Trance''' denotes a variety of processes, techniques, modalities and states of mind, awareness and consciousness. Trance states may occur involuntarily and unbidden.
The term "trance" may be associated with [[meditation]], [[magic]], [[Flow (psychology)|flow]] and [[prayer]]. It may also be related to the earlier generic term, [[altered states of consciousness]], which is no longer used in "[[Transpersonal psychology|Consciousness Studies]]" discourse.
== Etymology ==
Trance is from [[Latin]] '[[transīre]]': ''to cross'', ''pass over'' and the multiple meaning of the [[polyvalent]] [[homonym]] "entrance" as a [[verb]] and [[noun]] provide insight into the nature of trance as a [[threshold]], [[conduit]], [[Portal (architecture)|portal]] and/or [[channel]].
Trance, n. [F. 'transe' fright, in OF. also, trance or swoon, fr. 'transir' to chill, benumb, to be chilled, to shiver, OF. also, to die, L. 'transire' to pass over, go over, pass away, cease; trans across, over + ire to go; cf. L. 'transitus' a passing over. See Issue, and cf. Transit.
An [[intransitive]] usage of the [[verb]] 'trance' now obsolete is 'to pass', 'to travel'.
== Working models ==
Trance is increasingly used as a [[meta]]-[[paradigm]] and inclusive term for different states of [[consciousness]] and what has come to be known as [[altered states of consciousness]]. No [[value judgement]] on the states is intended. The trance as [[meta]]-[[paradigm]] model has been developing through the confluence of various fields and disciplines since the 1970s.
Hoffman (1998, p.9) writes "Over the past few decades, less of a value judgement has been made regarding whether these states are deeper or lighter or better or worse than ordinary consciousness. This means that usual, everyday consciousness no longer unequivocally ranks first, as it had for so long in the West."
Hoffman (1998: p.10) writes further that "...as the [[anthropologist]]s and [[ethnologist]]s (for example [[Felicitas Goodman]]) tell us, there are no traditional rituals or ceremonies that truly work and change our reality without the use of trance."
Wier, in his 1995 book, "Trance: from magic to technology", defines a simple trance (p.58) as being caused by cognitive loops which always result in various sets of disabled cognitive functions. With this simple definition, Wier defines meditation, hypnosis, addiction and charisma as complex forms of the simple definition. In Wier's 2007 book, "The Way of Trance," he elaborates on these forms, adds ecstacy as an additional form and discusses the ethical implications of his model, including magic.
[[John Horgan (American journalist)|John Horgan]] in ''Rational Mysticism'' (2003) explores the neurological mechanisms and psychological implications of trances and other [[mysticism|mystic]]al manifestations. Horgan incorporates literature and case-studies from a number of disciplines in this work: [[chemistry]], [[physics]], [[psychology]], [[radiology]] and [[theology]].
== Critique of term usage ==
Some people respond passionately to the usage of the term trance. Trance has a parallel history of negative associations and [[connotations]]. This article seeks to embrace these differences and engage them as a mutually rewarding dialogue, rather than contrive a [[homogenous]] position. [[Brian Inglis]] (1989) provides an interesting literature review and overview of the absence and oversight of 'trance' in reference materials.
== Working definitions ==
*[[Enchantment]]: a [[psychological]] state induced by (or as if induced by) a magical [[incantation]]
*a state of mind in which consciousness is fragile and voluntary action is poor or missing
*a state resembling deep [[sleep]]
*[[Capture]]: attract; cause to be [[enamored]]; "She captured all the men's hearts"; in the sense of [[entranced]]
*a condition of apparent sleep or unconsciousness, with marked physiological characteristics, in which the body of the subject is liable to [[possession]]
*an [[out-of-body experience]] in which one feels they have passed out of the body into another state of [[being]], a [[rapture]], an [[ecstasy (emotion)|ecstasy]]. In a general way, the entranced conditions thus defined are divided into varying degrees of a negative, [[Unconsciousness|unconscious]] state, and into progressive gradations of a positive, conscious, illumining condition.
*a state of hyper or enhanced [[suggestibility]].
*an [[induced]] or [[spontaneous]] sleep-like condition of an [[altered state of consciousness]], which permits the subject's physical body to be utilized by the [[discarnate]] as a means of [[expression]]
*an altered state of awareness induced via hypnotism in which unconscious or dissociated responses to suggestion are enhanced in quality and increased in degree
*a state induced by the use of hypnosis; the person accepts the suggestions of the hypnotist
*a state of consciousness characterized by extreme [[Dissociation (psychology)|dissociation]] often to the point of appearing [[Unconsciousness|unconscious]].
Trance conditions include all the different states of [[mind]], [[emotions]], [[moods]] and [[daydream]]s that human beings experience. All activities which engage a human involve the filtering of information coming into sense modalities and hence, brain functioning and consciousness. Therefore, trance may be understood as a matter of [[Function (engineering)|functionality]] and [[efficiency]] ~ to economize [[consciousness]] resource usage.
Trance states may also be accessed or induced by various [[modality|modalities]] and is a way of accessing the [[unconscious mind]] for the purposes of [[relaxation]], [[healing]], [[intuition]] and [[inspiration]]. There is an extensive documented history of trance as evidenced by the case-studies of anthropologists and ethnologists and associated and derivative disciplines. Hence trance, may be perceived as endemic to the [[human condition]] and a [[cultural universal|Human Universal]]. Principles of trance are being explored and documented as are methods of trance induction. Benefits of trance states are being explored by medical and scientific inquiry. Many traditions and rituals employ trance. Trance also has a function in religion and mystical experience.
Castillo (1995) states that: "Trance phenomena result from the behavior of intense focusing of attention, which is the key psychological mechanism of trance induction. Adaptive responses, including institutionalized forms of trance, are 'tuned' into neural networks in the brain and depend to a large extent on the characteristics of culture. Culture-specific organizations exist in the structure of individual neurons and in the organizational formation of neural networks."
Hoffman (1998: p.9) states that: "Trance is still conventionally defined as a state of reduced [[consciousness]], or a [[somnolent]] state. However, the more recent [[anthropological]] definition, linking it to '[[altered states of consciousness]]' ([[Charles Tart]]), is becoming increasingly accepted."
Hoffman (1998, p.9) asserts that: "...the trance state should be discussed in the plural, because there is more than one altered state of consciousness significantly different from everyday consciousness."
== Origins and history ==
=== Temple of Epidaurus: healing sleep ===
According to Hoffman (1998: p.10), [[pilgrims]] visited the [[Temple]] of [[Epidaurus]] an [[asclepieion]] in [[Greece]] for healing sleep. A seeker of healing would make [[pilgrimage]] and be received by a [[priest]] who would welcome and [[bless]] them. This temple housed an ancient [[religious]] [[ritual]] promoting [[dreams]] in the seeker that endeavoured to promote healing and the solutions to problems, as did the [[oracles]]. This temple was built in honour of [[Asclepios]], the Greek God of Medicine. The Greek treatment was referred to as [[Incubation (ritual)|incubation]], and focused on [[prayers]] to Asclepios for healing. The [[asclepion]] at [[Epidaurus]] is both extensive and well preserved, and is traditionally regarded as the birthplace of [[Asclepius]]. (For a comparable modern tool refer [[dreamwork]].)
=== Oral lore and storytelling ===
Stories of the [[saints]] in the [[Middle Ages]], [[Mythology|myths]], [[parables]], [[fairy tales]], [[oral lore]] and [[storytelling]] from different cultures are themselves potentially inducers of trance. Often [[Rhetorical device|literary device]]s such as [[repetition]] are employed which is evident in many forms of trance induction. [[Milton Erickson]] used stories to induce trance as do many [[NLP]] practitioners.
===Military===
From at least the 16th century it was held that [[march music]] may induce soldiers marching in unison into trance states where according to apologists, they bond together as a unit engendered by the rigors of training, the ties of comradeship and the chain of command. Conversely, the detractor may hold that they entrain as [[automaton]]. This effect was widely evident in the 16th, 17th and 18th century due to the increasing prevalence of firearms employed in warcraft. Military instruments, especially [[snare drum]] and other drums were used to entone a monotonous [[ostinato]] at the pace of march and heartbeat. High-pitched [[fife (musical instrument)|fifes]], [[flute]]s and [[bagpipe]]s were used for their "piercing" effect to play the melody. This would assist the morale and solidarity of soldiers as they marched to battle.
=== Mystics ===
As the mystical experience of [[mysticism|mystics]] generally entails direct connection, communication and communion with [[Deity]], [[Godhead]], [[deity]] and/or [[god]]; trance and cognate experience are endemic. Refer: [[Yoga]], [[Sufism]], [[Shaman]], [[Umbanda]], [[Crazy Horse]], etc.
=== Christian mystics ===
Many [[List of Christian mystics|Christian mystics]] are documented as having experiences that may be considered as cognate with trance, such as: [[Hildegard of Bingen]], [[John of the Cross]], [[Meister Eckhart]], Saint Theresa (as seen in the Bernini sculpture) and [[Francis of Assisi]].
=== Mesmer and the origin of hypnotherapy ===
*[[Mesmer]], an influential but discredited promoter of trance states and their curative powers.
*[[Milton Erickson]], the founder of [[hypnotherapy]]{{Fact|date=February 2008}} who died in 1980, introduced trance and hypnosis to orthodox medicine and psychotherapy - hypnosis here, is something different from traditional [[clinical hypnosis]].
== Trance in American Christianity ==
Taves (1999) charts the synonymic language of trance in the American Christian traditions: "power" or "presence" or "indwelling" of God, or Christ, or the Spirit, or spirits. Typical expressions include "the indwelling of the Spirit" ([[Jonathan Edwards (theologian)|Jonathan Edwards]]), "the witness of the Spirit" ([[John Wesley]]), "the power of God" (early [[American Methodists]]), being "filled with the Spirit of the Lord" (early [[Adventists]]), "communing with spirits" ([[Spiritualists]]), "the Christ within" ([[New Thought]]), "streams of holy fire and power" (Methodist [[Holiness movement|holiness]]), "a religion of the Spirit and Power" (the [[Emmanuel Movement]]), and "the baptism of the Holy Spirit" (early [[Pentecostal]]s). (Taves, 1999: 3)
== Trance and Anglo-American Protestants ==
Taves (1999) well referenced book on trance charts the experience of Anglo-American Protestants and those who left the Protestant movement beginning with the transatlantic awakening in the early Eighteenth century and ending with the rise of the [[psychology]] of [[religion]] and the birth of [[Pentecostalism]] in the early Twentieth century. This book focuses on a class of seemingly involuntary acts alternately explained in [[religious]] and [[secular]] terminology. These involuntary experiences include uncontrolled bodily movements ([[fit]]s, bodily exercises, falling as dead, [[catalepsy]], [[convulsions]]); spontaneous vocalizations (crying out, shouting, [[speaking in tongues]]); unusual sensory experiences (trances, [[visions]], voices, [[clairvoyance]], [[out-of-body experiences]]); and alterations of [[consciousness]] and/or [[memory]] ([[dreams]], [[somnium]], [[somnambulism]], mesmeric trance, mediumistic trance, [[hypnotism]], [[possession]], alternating personality). (Taves, 1999: 3)
=== Current practice ===
Today [[hypnotherapists]], [[psychiatrists]], [[psychotherapists]], [[psychologists]], [[sports psychology|sports psychologists]] and [[Neuro-linguistic programming|NLP]] practitioners, amongst others, use various forms of trances.
Neurolinguistic Programming (or [[Neuro-linguistic programming|NLP]]) is a further development of [[Milton Erickson]]'s hypnotherapy, for which, however, he did not provide an orthodox methodology. Erickson would put his patients in trance with short stories. While keeping the [[ego]] of his patients occupied, he would target his healing messages straight at their [[unconscious mind]], which he believed to have considerable self-healing powers. In this way he healed himself of the [[paralysis]] that affected him when young and to which he did finally succumb later in life.
== Consciousness ==
Beta brain waves designate the general state of waking consciousness. As a consequence, this state has been 'normalized'. This normalization is a challengable [[value judgement]]. This consciously awake [[beta state]] may still be considered as a trance because it involves the selective [[wikt:filter|filtering]] of information and utilizes [[cognitive]], [[awareness]] and [[mentation]] resources in specific ways.
[[William James]] (Neophytou, 1996): {{cquote|Our normal waking consciousness is but one special type of consciousness, whilst all about it by the flimsiest screens, there lie potential forms of consciousness entirely different…. No account of the universe in its totality can be final, which leaves these other forms of consciousness quite disregarded.}}
[[Gurdjieff]] (Neophytou, 1996): {{cquote|Consciousness [normal waking] is a state of light Hypnosis and few people are ever truly awake.}}
[[Aldous Huxley]] (Neophytou, 1996): {{cquote|Normal consciousness is a narrow segment of our potential consciousness. He regarded the brain and sense organs as a kind of reducing valve thru [''sic''] which experience was funneled to protect us from being overwhelmed.}}
== Trance induction and sensory modality ==
Trance-like states which are often interpreted as [[religious ecstasy]] or [[Vision (religion)|visions]] and can be deliberately induced using a variety of techniques, including [[prayer]], [[religious rituals]], [[meditation]], [[pranayama]] ([[breathwork]] or breathing exercises), [[physical exercise]], [[coitus]] (and/or [[sex]]), [[music]], [[dancing]], [[sweating]] (e.g. [[sweat lodge]]), [[fasting]], [[thirsting]], and the consumption of [[psychotropic]] drugs such as [[Spiritual use of cannabis|cannabis]]. [[Sensory]] [[modality]] is the [[Mediumship|channel]] or [[conduit]] for the [[induction]] of the trance. Sometimes an ecstatic experience takes place in occasion of contact with something or somebody perceived as extremely [[beautiful]] or [[holy]]. It may also happen without any known reason. The particular technique that an individual uses to induce ecstasy is usually one that is associated with that individual's particular [[religious]] and [[cultural]] [[traditions]]. As a result, an ecstatic experience is usually interpreted within the context of a particular individual's religious and cultural traditions. These interpretations often include statements about contact with [[supernatural]] or [[spiritual beings]], about receiving new information as a [[revelation]], also religion-related explanations of subsequent [[change]] of [[values]], [[attitudes]] and [[behaviour]] (e.g. in case of [[religious conversion]]).
Benevolent, neutral and malevolent trances may be induced (intentionally, spontaneously and/or accidentally) by different methods:
*[[Auditory]] driving through the [[sense]] of [[Hearing (sense)|hearing]] by [[chanting]], auditory [[story telling]], [[mantra]], [[overtone singing]], [[drumming]], [[music]], etc.;,
*[[Kinesthetic]] driving through the [[sense]] of [[feeling]] and movement through the [[Laban Movement Analysis|kinesphere]] by [[dance]], [[story telling]] by movement, [[mudra]], embodying [[ritual]]s, [[yoga]], [[breathwork]],[[oxygen]] deprivation, sexual stimulation etc.;
*Visual Driving through the [[sense]] of [[sight]] by [[yantra]], visual [[story telling]], [[mandala]], [[Film|cinema]], [[theater]], [[art]], [[architecture]], [[beauty]], [[strobe lights]], [[form constants]], [[symmetry]];
*[[Olfactory]] driving through via [[scent]] through the [[sense]] of [[olfaction|smell]] by [[perfume]], [[pheromones]], [[incense]], [[flowers]], [[pollen]], indeed any scent for which we have an association or memory, etc.;
*[[Gustatory]] driving through the [[sense]] of [[taste]] and [[indigestion]]; including: [[starvation]], [[herbs]], [[hallucinogens]] and [[drugs]]. As the intake of food and beverage entails intra-bodily chemical reactions through [[digestion]], some infer that all food may be considered 'medicine' or 'drugs' and therefore contribute to the induction of discernible psycho-physical states (refer [[Ancient Medicine]]). It is sometimes attained through the ingestion of [[psychoactive drugs]] such as [[alcohol]] and [[opiate]]s, or [[Psychedelics, dissociatives and deliriants|psychoactive]] plants and chemicals such as [[LSD]], [[2C-I]], [[peyote]], [[marijuana]], [[mescaline]], [[Salvia Divinorum]], [[MDMA]], [[psychedelic mushrooms]], or [[datura]] (Jimson weed).
; and
*Disciplines: [[Yoga]], [[Sufism]], [[Surat Shabd Yoga]]; [[meditation]]; and
*Miscellaneously: [[Psychological trauma|traumatic]] accident, [[sleep deprivation]], [[nitrogen narcosis]] (deep diving), [[fever]], by the use of a [[sensory deprivation]] tank or mind-control techniques, [[hypnosis]], [[meditation]], [[prayer]]; and
*Naturally occurring: [[dreams]], [[lucid dreaming|lucid dreams]], [[Euphoria (emotion)|euphoria]], [[ecstasy (state)|ecstasy]], [[psychosis]] as well as purported [[premonitions]], [[out-of-body experience]]s, and [[channelling (mediumistic)|channeling]].nemsis-zmd
== Auditory driving and auditory art ==
[[Charles Tart]] provides a useful working definition of auditory driving. It is the induction of trance through the sense of hearing. Auditory driving works through a process known as [[entrainment]].
The phenomenon of auditory driving is culturally still clearly evident and may be found in electronic dance music culture, which in many ways may be considered a modern version of shamanism. The same effect is caused by many [[jam bands]]. Churches which chant their services may also induce the same effects resulting in a trance state through the use of odd inflections and off-kilter or [[polyrhythmic]] structures. Similarly, [[white noise]] has been scientifically documented to assist neural connectivity, creativity and problem-solving.
=== Rhythmic induction ===
The usage of repetitive [[rhythms]] to induce trance states is an ancient phenomenon. Throughout the [[world]], shamanistic practitioners have been employing this method for [[millennia]]. [[Anthropologists]] and other researchers have documented the similarity of shamanistic [[auditory]] driving [[rituals]] among different cultures.
Said simply, entrainment is the synchronization of different rhythmic cycles. Breathing and heart rate have been shown to be affected by auditory stimulus, along with brain wave activity. The ability of rhythmic sound to affect human brain wave activity, especially [[theta]] brain waves, is the essence of auditory driving, and is the cause of the altered states of consciousness that it can induce.
== Visual driving and visual art ==
[[Charles Tart]] provides a useful working definition of photic or visual driving. It is the induction of trance through the [[sense]] of [[sight]]. Photic or visual driving works through a process known as [[entrainment]].
Nowack and Feltman have recently published an article entitled "Eliciting the Photic Driving Response" which states that the EEG photic driving response is a sensitive neurophysiological measure which has been employed to assess chemical and drug effects, forms of epilepsy, neurological status of Alzheimer's patients, and physiological arousal. Photic driving also impacts upon the psychological climate of a person by producing increased visual imagery and decreased physiological and subjective arousal. In this research by Nowack and Feltman, all participants reported increased visual imagery during photic driving, as measured by their responses to an imagery questionnaire.
Dennis Wier (http://www.trance.edu/papers/theory.htm Accessed: 6 December 2006) states that over two millennia ago [[Ptolemy]] and [[Apuleius]] found that differing rates of flickering lights effected states of awareness and sometimes induced epilepsy. Wier also asserts that it was discovered in the late 1920s that when light was shined on closed eyelids it resulted in an echoing production of brain wave frequencies. Wier also opined that in 1965 Grey employed a [[stroboscope]] to project rhythmic light flashes into the eyes at a rate of 10-25 Hz (cycles per second). Grey discovered that this stimulated similar brain wave activity.
Research by [[Thomas Budzynski]], [[Oestrander]] ''et al.'', in the use of brain machines suggest that [[photic]] driving via the [[Suprachiasmatic nucleus]] and direct electrical stimulation and driving via other mechanisms and modalities, may [[Entrainment (physics)|entrain]] processes of the brain facilitating [[Learning theory (education)|rapid and enhanced learning]], produce deep [[relaxation]], [[Euphoria (emotion)|euphoria]], an increase in [[creativity]], [[problem solving]] propensity and may be associated with enhanced concentration and accelerated learning. The [[theta]] range and the border area between [[alpha]] and [[theta]] has generated considerable research interest.
== Kinesthetic driving ==
[[Charles Tart]] provides a useful working definition of [[kinesthetic]] driving. It is the induction of trance through the [[sense]] of [[touch]], [[feeling]] or [[emotions]]. Kinesthetic driving works through a process known as [[entrainment]].
The [[rituals]] practiced by some [[Sportsperson|athletes]] in preparing for contests are dismissed as [[superstition]], but this is a [[tool|device]] of [[Sport psychology|sports psychologists]] to help them to attain an ecstasy-like state. Interestingly, [[Joseph Campbell]] had a peak experience whilst [[running]]. [[Roger Bannister]] on breaking the four-minute mile (Cameron, 1993: 185): "No longer conscious of my movement, I discovered a new unity with nature. I had found a new source of power and beauty, a source I never dreamt existed." Roger Bannister later became a distinguished [[neurologist]].
[[Mechanism]]s and [[discipline]]s may include kinesthetic driving may include: [[dancing]], [[walking meditation]], [[yoga]] and [[asana]], [[mudra]], [[juggling]], [[poi (juggling)]], etc.
[[Sufism]] (the [[mystical]] branch of [[Islam]]) has [[theoretical]] and [[metaphoric]] [[Writing|texts]] regarding [[Religious ecstasy|ecstasy]] as a state of connection with [[Allah]]. [[Sufi]] practice [[rituals]] ([[dhikr]], [[sema]]) using body movement and music to achieve the state.
[[Idries Shah]] amongst others, have asserted that the source of [[G. I. Gurdjieff]]'s teachings are the [[Naqshbandi]] [[Sufis]].
== Types and varieties ==
*[[Maenads]] and [[Bacchae]]: In [[Greek mythology]], ''Maenads'' were female [[worshipper]]s of [[Dionysus]], the [[Greek mythology|Greek]] god of [[mystery religion|mystery]], [[wine]] and [[intoxication]], and the [[Ancient Rome|Roman]] god [[Dionysus|Bacchus]]. The word literally translates as "raving ones". They were known as wild, insane women who could not be reasoned with. The mysteries of Dionysus inspired the women to [[ecstasy (emotion)|ecstatic]] frenzy; they indulged in copious amounts of violence, bloodletting, sexual activity, self-intoxication, and mutilation. They were usually pictured as crowned with [[vine]] leaves, clothed in [[deer|fawn]]skins and carrying the [[thyrsus]], and dancing with wild abandon. They also were characterized as entranced women, wandering through the forests and hills.¹ The Maenads were also known as ''Bassarids'' (or ''Bacchae'' or ''Bacchantes'') in [[Roman mythology]], after the penchant of the equivalent Roman god, Bacchus, to wear a [[fox]]-skin, a ''bassaris''.
*Viking berserkers were said to have often entered battle naked and entrenched in a state of primal rage, biting their shields and howling like wolves. This fanaticism was so powerful that they were known to continue fighting even after having lost limbs or being otherwise deeply wounded.
*[[Samadhi]]: [[Yoga]] provides techniques to attain a state of [[Religious ecstasy|ecstasy]] called [[Samadhi]]. According to practitioners, there are various stages of ecstasy, the highest of which is called [[Nirvikalpa|Nirvikalpa Samadhi]]. Different traditions have different understanding of [[Samadhi]].
*[[Bhakti]]: ([[Devanāgarī]]: भक्ति) is a word of Sanskrit origin meaning ''devotion'' and also ''the path of devotion'' itself, as in ''[[Bhakti yoga|Bhakti-Yoga]]''. Within [[Hinduism]] the word is used exclusively to denote devotion to a particular [[deity]] or form of [[God]]. Within [[Vaishnavism]] bhakti is only used in conjunction with [[Vishnu]] or one of his associated [[avatar|incarnations]], it is likewise used towards [[Shiva]] by followers of [[Shaivism]]. Saints in these traditions exhibit different trance states or ecstasy.
*[[Agape]] or Divine Love: the term 'Agape' appears in the [[Odyssey]] twice, where the word describes something that creates contentedness within the speaker.
*Communion: In the [[monotheistic]] [[tradition]], [[religious ecstasy|ecstasy]] is usually associated with communion and [[oneness]] with [[God]]. Indeed, ecstasy is the primary vehicle for the type of [[prophetic]] [[visions]] and [[revelations]] found in the [[Bible]]. However, such experiences can also be personal [[mystical]] experiences with no significance to anyone but the person experiencing them.
*[[Rapture]] or [[Religious ecstasy]]: is an [[altered state of consciousness]] characterized by greatly reduced external [[awareness]] and expanded interior mental and spiritual awareness which is frequently accompanied by [[visions]] and emotional/intuitive (and sometimes physical) [[Euphoria (emotion)|euphoria]]. Although the experience is usually brief in physical time, there are records of such experiences lasting several days or even more, and of recurring experiences of ecstasy during one's lifetime. [[Subjectivity|Subjective]] [[perception]] of [[time]], [[space]] and/or [[self (philosophy)|self]] may strongly change or disappear during ecstasy.
*[[Siddhi]]: is a [[Sanskrit]] term for spiritual power (or psychic ability); it literally means "a perfection." It is known in [[Hinduism]] and [[Tantric]] or [[Vajrayana]] [[Buddhism]]. These spiritual powers or perfections supposedly vary from relatively simple forms of [[clairvoyance]] to being able to [[levitate]], to degrees of [[omnipresence]], to become as minuscule as an [[atom]], to [[manifest]] or [[materialize]] objects, to have access to memories from past lives, access to the [[akashic records]], and more. The term became known in the West through the work of [[H.P. Blavatsky]]. Siddhi powers are said to be obtainable by [[meditation]], control of the senses, [[devotion]], [[herbs]], [[mantras]], [[pranayama]], or good birth.
*[[Peak experiences]]: is a term developed by [[Abraham Maslow]] and used to describe certain extra-personal and [[ecstatic states]], particularly ones tinged with themes of [[unification]], [[harmonization]] and [[interconnectedness]]. Participants characterize these experiences, and the revelations imparted therein, as possessing an ineffably [[mystical]] (or overtly [[religious]]) quality or essence.
*[[Stigmata]]: In his paper ''Hospitality and Pain'', iconoclastic Christian theologian [[Ivan Illich]] "Compassion with Christ... is faith so strong and so deeply incarnate that it leads to the individual embodiment of the contemplated pain." Illich's thesis is that stigmata manifests from exceptional poignancy of religious faith and desire to associate oneself with the suffering [[Messiah]]. Interestingly, stigmatics have manifested the [[Holy Wounds]] in different bodily locations possibly due to [[Subjectivity|subjective]] interpretation or envisioning.
*[[Eschatology]] and the [[Messianic Age]]
*[[Rapture of the deep]]
*In [[Christianity]], the ecstatic experiences of the [[Twelve Apostles|Apostles]] [[Saint Peter|Peter]] and [[Paul of Tarsus|Paul]] are recorded in [[Acts of the Apostles|Acts]] 10:10, 11:5 and 22:17.
*Some [[Charismatic movement|charismatic Christians]] practice ecstatic states (called e.g. "being [[slain in the Spirit]]") and interpret these as given by [[Holy Spirit]].
*In [[hagiography]] (writings on the subject of Christian [[saint]]s) many instances are recorded in which saints are granted ecstasies. According to the [[Catholic Encyclopedia]][http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/05277a.htm], religious ecstasy (called ''supernatural ecstasy'') includes two elements: one, interior and invisible, in which the mind rivets its attention on a religious subject, and another, corporeal and visible, in which the activity of the senses is suspended, reducing the effect of external sensations upon the subject and rendering him or her resistant to awakening.
== Play and learning ==
The activity and rite of [[Play (activity)|play]] is endemic not only to the human species, but evident throughout nature. Play often involves trance elements. Many notables in consciousness studies and trance have been engaged in research on play and its role in [[cognitive development]] and learning, namely: [[Jean Piaget]], [[William James]], [[Sigmund Freud]], [[Carl Jung]], [[Lev Vygotsky]], etc. Indeed, '[[lila]]' (Sanskrit) is the 'play', 'sport' and 'pastime' of 'gods' or [[Deva (Hinduism)|deva]] (Sanskrit).
== Shamanism ==
Trance states have also long been used by [[shamans]], [[mysticism|mystics]], and [[fakirs]] in [[healing]] [[rituals]], being particularly cultivated in some [[religions]], such as [[Tibetan Buddhism]].
Some anthropologists and religion scholars define a shaman as an intermediary between the natural and spiritual world, who travels between worlds in a trance state. Once in the spirit world, the shaman would commune with the spirits for assistance in healing, hunting or weather management. Ripinsky-Naxon describes shamans as, “People who have a strong interest in their surrounding environment and the society of which they are a part.”
Other anthropologists critique the term "shamanism", arguing that it is a culturally specific word and institution and that by expanding it to fit any healer from any traditional society it produces a false unity between these cultures and creates a false idea of an initial human religion predating all others. However, others say that these anthropologists simply fail to recognize the commonalities between otherwise diverse traditional societies.
Achieving [[ecstatic trances]] is a major activity of [[shamans]], who use ecstasy for such purposes as traveling via the [[axis mundi]] to [[heaven]] or the [[underworld]], guiding or otherwise interacting with [[spirit]]s, [[clairvoyance]], and [[healing]]. Some shamans use [[drugs]] from such [[plants]] as [[peyote]] and [[cannabis]] or certain [[mushrooms]] in their attempts to reach ecstasy, while others rely on such non-chemical means as [[ritual]], [[music]], [[dance]], [[ascetic]] practices, or visual designs as aids to mental discipline.
=== Australian shamanism ===
Lawlor (1991: p.374) states that:
<blockquote>
The supernormal, super sensory powers of Aboriginal wise woman and men of high degree, by their own accounts, comes directly from initiations administered by the ancestral sky heroes themselves and by the totemic spirits. Those who have gone through these initiations alone, in a deep trance that makes them lose their personal identities and confront manifestations of the ancestral powers, are held in the highest regard.
</blockquote>
Lawlor (1991: p.303) states that:<blockquote>
One such animal dance ceremony was observed and photographed by Gillen and Spencer. More than 30 naked men gathered in a large circle. One by one, each man performed the dance of the animal to be hunted while the others sang and slapped their buttocks to create a percussive beat for the dancer. The slapping sound was so loud that it could be heard for miles across the surrounding desert. The dance continued for hours, with each man dancing frenetically until he dropped from exhaustion. The eyes of the onlookers soon became glazed with entrancement; their penises were erect in a state of ecstatic arousal. Finally, after the last man had performed the animal dance and collapsed in exhaustion, the entire group leaped on him, emitting a loud abandoned cry. The next day the hunt began.
</blockquote>
== Divination ==
[[Divination]] is a cultural universal which [[anthropologists]] have observed as being present in many [[religions]] and [[cultures]] in all ages up to the present day (refer [[sibyl]]). Divination may be defined as a mechanism for ascertaining information by interpretation of [[omens]] or an alleged supernatural agency[1] and as divination often entails [[ritual]] as different to [[fortune-telling]] is often facilitated by trance.
===Nechung Oracle===
In [[Tibet]], [[oracle]]s have played, and continue to play, an important part in [[religion]] and [[government]]. The word "oracle" is used by Tibetans to refer to the [[spirit]], [[deity]] or [[entity]] that enters those men and women who act as [[medium (spirituality)|media]] between the natural and the spiritual realms. The media are, therefore, known as ''kuten'', which literally means, "the physical basis".
The [[Dalai Lama]], who lives in exile in northern India, still consults an oracle known as the ''[[Nechung Oracle]]'', which is considered the official state oracle of the government of Tibet. He gives a complete description of the process of trance and possession in his book ''Freedom in Exile''. [http://www.tibet.com/Buddhism/nechung_hh.html].
===Edgar Cayce===
[[Edgar Cayce]] (1877 – 1945) was an [[United States|American]] [[psychic]] who claimed to [[Mediumship|channel]] answers to questions on subjects such as [[health]], [[astrology]], [[reincarnation]], and [[Atlantis]] while in a kind of sleep trance. Cayce's methods involved lying down and entering into what appeared to be a trance or [[sleep]] state, usually at the request of a subject who was seeking help with health or other issues (the subjects were not usually present). The subject's questions would then be given to Cayce, and Cayce would proceed with a "reading". At first these readings dealt primarily with the physical health of the individual ("physical readings"); later readings on past lives, business advice, dream interpretation, and mental or spiritual health were also given.
== Health ==
Trance has been shown to be very psychologically beneficial, by helping to relieve built up stress, allowing one to reflect on life issues without censorship or guilt, and generally giving the psyche respite from operating at [[alpha waves|alpha]] or [[delta waves|delta]] states. Trance forms though such as meditation may be contraindicated for certain individuals with a history of mental illness and people on certain psychotropic medications, for example. There have been studies published in defensible journal of peers (provide source) that [[Grace (prayer)|grace]] and [[thanksgiving]] (for example) vocalised, enacted, thought and felt prior to consumption of meals may assist with digestion and nutrient uptake and utilization by the [[bodymind]] (refer [[Agape feast]], [[eucharist]], [[ganachakra]], etc.) Generally, one is only in a [[theta]] state for a period of minutes, right before going to sleep, and when waking up. Being in a theta state for 15 minutes is considered to be an 'extended period'. With the use of auditory driving, or other meditative techniques, this time can be extended significantly.
== Scientific disciplines ==
Convergent disciplines of [[neuroanthropology]], [[ethnomusicology]], [[electroencephalography]], [[neurotheology]] and [[cognitive neuroscience]], amongst others, are conducting research into the trance induction of [[altered states of consciousness]] resulting from [[neuron]] [[entrainment]] with the driving of [[sensory]] [[modalities]]. For example [[polyharmonics]], [[multiphonics]], and [[percussive]] [[polyrhythms]] through the channel of the [[auditory]] and [[kinesthetic]] [[modality]].
[[Neuroanthropology]] and [[cognitive neuroscience]] are conducting research into the trance [[induction]] of [[altered states of consciousness]] (possibly engendering [[higher consciousness]]} resulting from [[neuron]] firing [[entrainment]] with these [[polyharmonics]] and [[multiphonics]]. Related research has been conducted into neural entraining with [[percussive]] [[polyrhythms]]. The [[timbre]] of traditional singing bowls and their [[polyrhythms]] and [[multiphonics]] are considered meditative and calminative and the harmony inducing effects of this potentially [[consciousness]] alterning [[tool]] are being explored by scientists, medical professionals and therapists.
== Brain waves and brain rhythms ==
Scientific advancement and new technologies according to Wier such as computerized [[electroencephalography]] (EEG), EEG [[topographic]] [[brain mapping]], [[positron emission tomography]], regional cerebral blood flow, single photon emission computed tomography and nuclear magnetic resonance imaging, amongst others, are providing measurable tools to assist in understanding trance phenomena. All brain waves are analogous to different types of trance in that they utilise brain and consciousness resources differently and provide different [[input]] and [[information]] [[wikt:filter|filter]]s.
Though a source of contention, there appear to be three current streams of inquiry: [[Neurophysiology]], [[Social psychology|Social Psychology]] and [[Cognitive behavioral therapy|Cognitive Behaviourism]]. The [[neurophysiological]] approach is awaiting the development of a mechanism to map physiological measurements to human thought. The social-psychological approach currently measures gross subjective and social effects of thoughts and some critique it for lack of precision. Cognitive behaviorialists employ [[systems theory]] concepts and analytical techniques.
There are four principal brain wave states that range from high amplitude, low frequency delta through to the low amplitude, high frequency beta. These states range from deep dreamless sleep to a state of high arousal. These four brain wave states are common throughout humans. All levels of brain waves exist in everyone at all times, even though one is foregrounded depending on the activity level. When a person is in an aroused state and exhibiting a beta brain wave pattern, their brain also exhibits a component of alpha, theta and delta, even though only a trace may be present.
Upon waking from a deep sleep in preparation for arising, your brain wave frequencies increase through the different stages of brain wave activity, moving from delta to theta and then to alpha and into beta.
===Gamma waves===
[[Gamma wave]]s have the highest range of frequencies (around 40 Hz) and are involved in higher mental activity. They have also been detected during the process of awakening and during active [[rapid eye movement (REM) sleep]].
===Beta waves===
[[Beta wave]]s are the most common of the brain wave patterns that occur when awake. These occur during period of intense concentration, problem solving, and focused analysis. The frequency of beta waves is between 13-30 Hz (cycles per second).
===Alpha waves===
[[Alpha waves]] are any of the electrical waves from the [[parietal]] and [[occipital]] regions of the brain, having frequencies from 8 to 12 hertz (cycles per second). Some scientists consider the range 8 - 13 Hz and are most usual when we are mentally alert, calm and relaxed, or when day-dreaming. Alpha waves are a sign of relaxation, as they indicate a lack of sensory stimulation in a [[conscious]] person.
===Theta waves===
[[Theta waves]] occur when we are mentally drowsy and unfocused, during deep calmness, most daydreaming, relaxation or tranquility, as for example we make the transitions from drowsiness to sleep or from sleep to the waking state. The frequency of theta waves is between 4-7 Hz (cycles per second) though some researchers regard theta to be 5 to 8 cps.
In brain wave frequencies, theta is the frequency range where drowsiness, unconsciousness, dreaming states and deep tranquility happen. Most daydreaming occurs while in the theta range.
It is normally a very positive mental state and prolonged states of the theta brain wave frequency while conscious can be extremely productive and a time of very meaningful/creative mental activity.
With practice, meditation can also lower a person's brain wave frequency to theta while allowing the meditator to remain conscious.
===Delta waves===
[[Delta waves]] occur primarily during deep sleep or states of unconsciousness. The frequency of delta waves is between 0.5-4 Hz (cycles per second).
== Spirituality ==
The [[Vaishnava]] [[Bhakti]] Schools of Yoga defines [[Samadhi]] as "complete absorption into the object of one's love ([[Krishna]])." Rather than thinking of "nothing," true samadhi is said to be achieved only when one has pure, unmotivated love of God. Thus samadhi can be entered into through [[meditation]] on the personal form of God, even while performing daily activities a practitioner can strive for full samadhi.
== Notes ==
*¹ Wiles, David (2000). ''Greek Theatre Performance: An Introduction''. Cambridge University Press. Source: [http://www.cambridge.org/catalogue/catalogue.asp?isbn=052164027X]
==References==
<div class="references-small" style="-moz-column-count:2; column-count:2;">
*[[Julia Cameron|Cameron, Julia]] (1993). ''The Artist's Way''. Oxford, London: Pan Books. [[ISBN 0-330-34358-0]]
*[[John Horgan (American journalist)|Horgan, John]] (2003). ''Rational Mysticism: Dispatches from the Border Between Science and Spirituality.'' New York: Houghton Mifflin.
*[[William James|James, William]] ''The varieties of religious experience'' (1902) ISBN 0-14-039034-0
*[[Charles Tart|Tart, Charles T.]], editor. ''Altered States of Consciousness'' (1969) ISBN 0-471-84560-4
*[[Charles Tart|Tart, Charles T.]] ''States of Consciousness'' (2001) ISBN 0-595-15196-5
*[[Brian Inglis|Inglis, Brian]] (1990). ''Trance: A Natural History Of Altered States Of Mind''. London, Paladin. ISBN 0-586-08933-0
*[[Wier Dennis R|Wier, Dennis R.]] ''Trance: from magic to technology'' (1995) ISBN 1-888428-38-4
*Hoffman, Kay (1998). ''The Trance Workbook: understanding & using the power of altered states''. Translated by Elfie Homann, Clive Williams, and Dr Christliebe El Mogharbel. Translation edited by Laurel Ornitz. ISBN 0-8069-1765-2
*[[Piers Vitebsky]], The Shaman: Voyages of the Soul - Trance, Ecstasy and Healing from Siberia to the Amazon, Duncan Baird, 2001. ISBN 1-903296-18-8
*Nowack, William J & Feltman, Mary L. (date?) "Eliciting the Photic Driving Response". American Journal of Electroneurodiagnostic Technology. Vol. 38, No. 1, pp. 43–45.
*Von Gizycki, H. , Jean-Louis, G., Snyder, M., Zizi, F., Green, H., Giuliano, V., Spielman, A., Taub, H. (1998). “The effects of photic driving on mood states” in ''Journal of psychosomatic research''. Vol. 44, N. 5, pp. 599-604. New York, NY: Elsevier. ISSN 0022-3999
*McDaniel, June (1989). ''The Madness of the Saints: Ecstatic Religion in Bengal''. University of Chicago Press. ISBN-10: 0-226-55723-5 (Paper); 0-226-55722-7 (Cloth) & ISBN-13: 978-0-226-55723-6 (Paper); 978-0-226-55722-9 (Cloth).
*Michaelson, Jay (1997). "Paths to the Divine: Ecstatics and Theology in R. Dov Baer of Lubavitch". Source: http://www.metatronics.net/lit/dovbaer.html (6 December 2006).
*Neophytou, Charles (1996). The Encyclopedia of Mind Body and Spirit. Millennium Edition. Yanchep, Western Australia: Lindlahr Book Publishing. ISBN 0-646-26789-2
*Lewis, I. M. (2003). Trance, Possession, Shamanism and Sex. In Anthropology of Consciousness. Volume 14, Number 1, March-June 2003, pages 20-39.
*Hubbard, Timothy L. (2003). Some Correspondences and Similarities of Shamanism and Cognitive Science: Interconnectedness, Extension of Meaning, and Attribution of Mental States. In Anthropology of Consciousness. Volume 14, Number 1, March-June 2003, pages 26-45
*Vyner, Henry M. (2002). The Descriptive Mind Science of Tibetan Buddhist Psychology and the Nature of the Healthy Human Mind. In Anthropology of Consciousness. Volume 13, Number 2, September-December 2002, pages 1-25.
*Rich, Grant Jewell (2001). Domestic Paths to Altered States and Transformations of Consciousness. Volume 12, Number 2 (September-December 2001).
*Wallis, Robert (1999). Altered States, Conflicting Cultures: Shamans, Neo-Shamans and Academics. In Anthropology of Consciousness. Volume 10, Numbers 2-3 (June-September 1999).
*{{Cite book|chapter=The Trance|title=The Head Trip: Adventures on the Wheel of Consciousness|year=2007|isbn=978-0679314080|first=Jeff|last=Warren}}
*Goodman, Felicitas D. (1999). Ritual Body Postures, Channeling, and the Ecstatic Body Trance. In Anthropology of Consciousness. Volume 10, Number 1 (March 1999).
*Castillo, Richard J. (1995). Culture, Trance, and the Mind-Brain. In Anthropology of Consciousness. Volume 6, Number 1, March 1995, pages 17-34.
*Heinze, Ruth-Inge (1994). Applications of Altered States of Consciousness in Daily Life. In Anthropology of Consciousness. Volume 5, Number 3, September 1994, pages 8-12.
*Taves, Ann (1999). ''Fits, Trances, & Visions: Experiencing Religion and Explaining Experience from Wesley to James''. Princeton, New Jersey: Princeton University Press.
*[[Huston Smith|Smith, Huston]] (2000). ''Cleansing the Doors of Perception: The Religious Significance of Entheogenic Plants and Chemicals''. Tarcher/Putnam, ISBN 1-58542-034-4, Council on Spiritual Practices, ISBN 1-889725-03-X
*Lawlor, Robert (1991). ''Voices Of The First Day: Awakening in the Aboriginal dreamtime.'' Rochester, Vermont: Inner Traditions International, Ltd. ISBN 0-89281-355-5
*Wier, Dennis R. (2007). ''The Way of Trance'' Laytonville, California: Trance Research Foundation. ISBN 978-1-8884-2810-0.
</div>
== See also ==
{{col-begin}}
{{col-break}}
* [[Altered state of consciousness]]
* [[Autohypnosis]]
* [[Channelling]]
* [[Consciousness]]
* [[Contemplative education]]
* [[Dhikr]]
* [[Dreaming]]
* [[Ecstasy (emotion)]]
* [[Ecstasy (philosophy)]]
* [[Entheogen]]
* [[Entrainment]]
* [[Hallucinations in the sane]]
* [[Henri Bergson]]
{{col-break}}
* [[Hesychasm]]
* [[Highway hypnosis]]
* [[Huston Smith]]
* [[Hypnagogia]]
* [[Hypnosis]]
* [[Immanence]]
* [[Jesus Prayer]]
* [[Meditation]]
* [[Milton Erickson]]
* [[Mysticism]]
* [[Nirvana]]
* [[NLP]]
{{col-break}}
* [[Oneness (concept)]]
* [[Possession]]
* [[Religious experience]]
* [[Rigpa]]
* [[Samadhi]]
* [[Satchitananda]]
* [[Shamanism]]
* [[Transcendence]]
* [[Transpersonal psychology]]
* [[Unio Mystica]]
* [[Wajad]]
{{col-end}}
==External links==
{{wiktionary}}
*[http://www.trance.edu The Trance Institute]
*[http://www.tranceresearch.org Trance Research Foundation]
*[http://www.hypnosisandsuggestion.org HypnosisAndSuggestion.org] Exploring the science behind hypnosis and suggestion
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[[Category:Hypnosis]]
[[Category:Meditation| ]]
[[Category:Mind-body interventions]]
[[Category:Self]]
[[Category:Shabd paths]]
[[Category:Spirituality]]
[[Category:Religion articles needing expert attention]]
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