Rhythmic Chanting and Mystical States across Traditions.
Gemma Perry, Vince Polito, William Forde Thompson
Brain sciences January 13, 2021 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11010101 via PubMed
Summary
Chanting, practiced in various cultures, is linked to inducing mystical states of consciousness. In a study of 464 participants from 33 countries, 60% reported experiencing such states while chanting. Those who had mystical experiences displayed higher levels of absorption, altruism, and religiosity compared to those without these experiences. The study found no differences in mystical experiences based on the type of chanting or tradition, but noted that these experiences were often marked by positive mood and feelings of ineffability.
Study at a glance
| Sample size | 464 |
|---|---|
| Population | participants who regularly engaged in chanting from 33 countries |
| Key finding | 60% of participants experienced mystical states during chanting. |
Abstract
Chanting is a form of rhythmic, repetitive vocalization practiced in a wide range of cultures. It is used in spiritual practice to strengthen community, heal illness, and overcome psychological and emotional difficulties. In many traditions, chanting is used to induce mystical states, an altered state of consciousness characterised by a profound sense of peace. Despite the global prevalence of chanting, its psychological effects are poorly understood. This investigation examined the psychological and contextual factors associated with mystical states during chanting. Data were analyzed from 464 participants across 33 countries who regularly engaged in chanting. Results showed that 60% of participants experienced mystical states during chanting. Absorption, altruism, and religiosity were higher among people who reported mystical states while chanting compared to those who did not report mystical states. There was no difference in mystical experience scores between vocal, silent, group or individual chanting and no difference in the prevalence of mystical states across chanting traditions. However, an analysis of subscales suggested that mystical experiences were especially characterised by positive mood and feelings of ineffability. The research sheds new light on factors that impact upon chanting experiences. A framework for understanding mystical states during chanting is proposed.