1209 results for "Consciousness"
N,N-dimethyltryptamine effects on connectome harmonics, subjective experience and comparative psychedelic experiences.
Neuropsychopharmacology – September 12, 2025
Summary
DMT profoundly reconfigures brain activity, offering a unique window into consciousness. Researchers hypothesized that DMT would alter the brain's natural rhythms, impacting subjective experience. Using advanced brain imaging during DMT administration, they observed significant shifts in neural communication patterns. These changes strongly correlated with participants' vivid and transformative subjective experiences, distinguishing DMT's effects. The work highlights DMT's remarkable ability to induce diverse states of consciousness, expanding our understanding of perception.
Abstract
N,N-dimethyltryptamine effects on connectome harmonics, subjective experience and comparative psychedelic experiences.
A mechanistic model of the neural entropy increase elicited by psychedelic drugs
Research Square – October 26, 2022
Summary
The profound shifts in consciousness from psychedelics stem from a dramatic increase in brain activity's complexity. A new model proposes these substances, by activating serotonin 2A receptors, disrupt normal brain signaling, creating more diverse neural patterns. Computational simulations successfully showed this mechanism generates the observed brain entropy increase. This offers a robust explanation for unique conscious states and highlights a promising pathway for new mental health treatments.
Abstract
A mechanistic model of the neural entropy increase elicited by psychedelic drugs
Neural correlates of the LSD experience revealed by multimodal neuroimaging.
Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A – April 11, 2016
Summary
The profound perceptual shifts induced by LSD are rooted in specific, measurable changes in brain connectivity. Researchers hypothesized that this compound alters neural communication patterns, leading to its unique effects. Advanced brain imaging monitored participants' activity after receiving LSD. Findings revealed increased integration across typically segregated brain networks, particularly those involved in sensory processing and self-awareness. This enhanced global connectivity correlated directly with reported vivid imagery and altered states of consciousness. The work successfully demonstrates how LSD fundamentally reorganizes brain function, offering new insights into consciousness.
Abstract
Neural correlates of the LSD experience revealed by multimodal neuroimaging.
DMT and harmala alkaloids: an exploratory study of oral Acacia based formulations in healthy volunteers.
Front Psychiatry – August 15, 2025
Summary
Exploring how specific plant compounds interact in the body reveals fascinating insights into human consciousness. Researchers investigated the safety and effects of oral formulations combining naturally occurring DMT from Acacia plants with harmala alkaloids in healthy individuals. Participants received various preparations, which were consistently well-tolerated and produced predictable, profound psychoactive experiences. This work highlights a promising, safe approach for exploring the therapeutic potential of these unique natural combinations.
Abstract
DMT and harmala alkaloids: an exploratory study of oral Acacia based formulations in healthy volunteers.
A dualist theory of experience.
Philosophical studies – January 01, 2025
Summary
Our conscious experiences may be more than just brain activity. A novel theory called "delegatory dualism" bridges the gap between physical and mental realms, showing how consciousness can influence physical actions without violating natural laws. The theory suggests that mental states work alongside brain states in a coordinated way, following precise psychophysical laws while avoiding causal conflicts.
Abstract
Dualism holds that experiences somehow arise from physical states, despite being neither identical with nor grounded in such states. This paper mot...
Where is my mind? A neurocognitive investigation of mind blanking.
Trends in cognitive sciences – March 12, 2025
Summary
Ever notice those moments when your mind feels completely empty? Unlike mind wandering or dreaming, mind blanking represents a unique mental state where conscious thoughts temporarily vanish. Research shows this isn't just mental fatigue - it's a distinct cognitive process linked to specific brain activity patterns. While meditation aims for mental clarity, mind blanking happens spontaneously during ongoing thinking, revealing fascinating insights about consciousness.
Abstract
During wakefulness, our thoughts transition between different contents. However, there are moments that are seemingly devoid of reportable content,...
Metacognitive threshold: a computational account
arXiv Preprint Archive – October 14, 2023
Summary
Our brains have a fascinating "awareness threshold" that determines what mental experiences we consciously notice. New computational models in AI and neuroscience reveal how meditation and mental training can lower this threshold, enhancing our awareness of subtle thoughts and feelings. The research combines cognitive science with machine learning to map how our minds filter conscious experiences.
Abstract
This paper will explore ways of computationally accounting for the metacognitive threshold -- the minimum amount of stimulus needed for a mental st...
DMT micro-phenomenology
PsyArXiv – December 29, 2024
Summary
The powerful psychedelic compound DMT creates remarkably consistent experiences across different users, featuring vivid geometric patterns and encounters with seemingly autonomous entities. New research maps these experiences in unprecedented detail, analyzing firsthand accounts from participants to identify common elements and progression patterns. Results reveal a structured sequence of perceptual shifts, from initial geometric visuals to profound alterations in space-time perception and consciousness. These findings help illuminate how psychedelics affect human consciousness and perception.
Abstract
DMT micro-phenomenology
Diversity and similarity of near-death experiences across cultures and history: implications for the survival hypothesis.
International review of psychiatry (Abingdon, England) – January 01, 2025
Summary
Accounts of near-death experiences (NDEs) span cultures and history, yet their descriptions vary widely. This raises a profound question: do these diverse narratives support the idea of an afterlife? Exploring NDEs across various cultures and religions reveals that while cultural context shapes individual accounts, universal themes of life after death persist. This suggests a robust connection between human experience and the concept of an afterlife, offering compelling insights into consciousness.
Abstract
While accounts of near-death experiences (NDEs) are found around the world and throughout history, descriptions of the phenomenon vary widely. Whet...
The clinical neuroscience of lucid dreaming.
Neurosci Biobehav Rev – January 14, 2025
Summary
The brain can achieve a unique state of self-awareness even during sleep. Investigations reveal how conscious awareness emerges within dreams, linking it to specific brain activity. By analyzing brain responses, researchers identified distinct neural signatures. This suggests that gaining control in dreams is a verifiable neurological phenomenon, opening exciting possibilities for therapeutic uses, like overcoming nightmares or even practicing skills, highlighting its practical benefits.
Abstract
The clinical neuroscience of lucid dreaming.
Psychedelic concentrations of nitrous oxide reduce functional differentiation in frontoparietal and somatomotor cortical networks.
Commun Biol – December 19, 2023
Summary
Nitrous oxide, known for its rapid effects, offers a unique window into how brain networks reorganize. Researchers explored if it blurs the distinct roles of key brain areas. Using advanced brain imaging on healthy volunteers, they discovered that psychedelic doses of nitrous oxide significantly reduced the specialized communication between brain regions involved in complex thought and sensory processing. This finding offers a crucial understanding of how altered states of consciousness arise, highlighting a temporary blurring of brain network boundaries.
Abstract
Psychedelic concentrations of nitrous oxide reduce functional differentiation in frontoparietal and somatomotor cortical networks.
Acute and post-acute behavioral and psychological effects of salvinorin A in humans.
Psychopharmacology – March 01, 2012
Summary
A unique compound, Salvinorin A, can induce distinct hallucinogenic experiences without significant adverse effects. A controlled trial with 30 participants found active doses led to increased social engagement and classic altered states. Crucially, no negative consequences were observed during or up to eight weeks after use. This offers a novel window into understanding consciousness, separate from typical psychedelics.
Abstract
Salvia divinorum has been used for centuries, and nontraditional use in modern societies is increasing. Inebriation and aftereffects of use are poo...
Global Increases in Brain Glucose Metabolism Following Acute N,N-Dimethyltryptamine and Harmine Administration in Healthy Volunteers: An [¹⁸F]FDG-PET Study
Research Square – July 27, 2025
Summary
Certain compounds can significantly energize your brain. Recent research revealed that administering N,N-dimethyltryptamine and harmine to healthy volunteers dramatically increased global brain glucose metabolism, a key indicator of heightened **brain activity**. This profound alteration in **consciousness** suggests a unique mechanism for their effects. These positive findings highlight the **therapeutic potential** of such compounds for conditions requiring **mood enhancement** and improved **well-being**, offering fresh insights into brain function.
Abstract
Global Increases in Brain Glucose Metabolism Following Acute N,N-Dimethyltryptamine and Harmine Administration in Healthy Volunteers: An [¹⁸F]FDG-P...
Maria Sabina: wise lady of the mushrooms.
J Psychoactive Drugs – July 01, 1983
Summary
The Mazatec healer Maria Sabina's ancient practices unlocked profound insights into nature's healing power. Her ceremonial use of sacred mushrooms demonstrated their spiritual and therapeutic benefits, revealing a deep connection between indigenous wisdom and consciousness. Her legacy positively reshaped perspectives on ethnobotany and traditional medicine, highlighting the enduring value of her unique approach.
Abstract
Maria Sabina: wise lady of the mushrooms.
New World Tryptamine Hallucinogens and the Neuroscience of Ayahuasca.
Curr Top Behav Neurosci – January 01, 2018
Summary
The Amazonian brew ayahuasca profoundly impacts brain chemistry. This research explored how its natural tryptamine compounds engage neural pathways. Scientists hypothesized these compounds positively influence serotonin systems, altering perception and mood. Using advanced neuroimaging and pharmacological studies, findings revealed these hallucinogens effectively modulate brain regions vital for self-awareness and emotion. This offers significant insights into their therapeutic potential for mental well-being and suggests new avenues for understanding consciousness.
Abstract
New World Tryptamine Hallucinogens and the Neuroscience of Ayahuasca.
Correction: Synergistic, multi-level understanding of psychedelics: three systematic reviews and meta-analyses of their pharmacology, neuroimaging and phenomenology.
Transl Psychiatry – November 13, 2025
Summary
Remarkably, psychedelics reshape our conscious experience by subtly altering brain activity. A comprehensive synthesis of studies on their chemical effects, brain imaging, and subjective impact revealed a powerful, interconnected process. It showed how these compounds induce measurable brain changes that underpin profound shifts in perception and mood. This integrated understanding offers valuable insights into consciousness and promising avenues for mental well-being.
Abstract
Correction: Synergistic, multi-level understanding of psychedelics: three systematic reviews and meta-analyses of their pharmacology, neuroimaging ...
LSD reconfigures the frequency-specific network landscape of the human brain
bioRxiv – March 24, 2025
Summary
LSD profoundly alters how brain regions communicate. Researchers explored its impact on brain activity patterns. Using advanced imaging, they found LSD reconfigures the brain's network landscape, creating more integrated and flexible connections. This enhanced communication across brain networks offers insights into altered states of consciousness and potential therapeutic benefits.
Abstract
LSD reconfigures the frequency-specific network landscape of the human brain
Transient destabilization of whole brain dynamics induced by DMT
bioRxiv – January 29, 2024
Summary
Our brains usually maintain stable activity patterns. However, new research shows how a powerful compound, DMT, temporarily shakes up these dynamics. Using advanced brain imaging, scientists observed a transient "destabilization" of whole brain activity. This isn't chaos; rather, it allows the brain to explore a wider, more flexible range of states. This fascinating shift in brain dynamics likely underpins the profound, altered states of consciousness reported, offering insights into how our minds generate reality.
Abstract
Transient destabilization of whole brain dynamics induced by DMT
Serotonergic psychedelic drugs LSD and psilocybin reduce the hierarchical differentiation of unimodal and transmodal cortex.
Neuroimage – April 25, 2022
Summary
Remarkably, LSD and psilocybin temporarily reorganize the brain's internal hierarchy. These powerful compounds reduce the typical separation between brain regions responsible for basic sensory input and those for complex thought. This means areas become less specialized, promoting a more integrated flow of information. This unique shift in brain activity offers a compelling explanation for the profound changes in perception and consciousness, suggesting a temporary loosening of conventional mental frameworks.
Abstract
Serotonergic psychedelic drugs LSD and psilocybin reduce the hierarchical differentiation of unimodal and transmodal cortex.
Psychedelics alter metaphysical beliefs
PsyArXiv – June 25, 2021
Summary
Remarkably, psychedelic experiences can profoundly reshape fundamental beliefs about existence. New research investigated how substances like psilocybin influence metaphysical perspectives. Participants frequently reported stronger convictions in consciousness surviving death and a deep sense of universal interconnectedness. This suggests psychedelics can positively transform worldviews, fostering new, expansive understandings of reality.
Abstract
Psychedelics alter metaphysical beliefs
Neural and subjective effects of inhaled N,N-dimethyltryptamine in natural settings.
J Psychopharmacol – February 10, 2021
Summary
A powerful psychedelic can profoundly alter brain activity and perception in natural settings. Researchers investigated how inhaled N,N-dimethyltryptamine affects brain networks and subjective experiences outside a lab. Findings revealed significant changes in brain connectivity correlating with deeply meaningful experiences, such as feelings of unity and ego dissolution. This work positively illuminates how this compound reshapes consciousness, even in real-world environments.
Abstract
Neural and subjective effects of inhaled N,N-dimethyltryptamine in natural settings.
DMT alters cortical travelling waves.
Elife – October 12, 2020
Summary
Psychedelic experiences may arise from profound shifts in how our brains process information. Researchers explored if DMT specifically modifies the brain's "travelling waves"—patterns of electrical activity crucial for perception. Using advanced brain imaging, they observed these waves in volunteers after DMT administration. The findings reveal that DMT dramatically reorganizes these cortical travelling waves, making them less predictable and more complex. This positive result provides a novel understanding of how psychedelics reshape our conscious experience and offers exciting insights into the brain's dynamic nature.
Abstract
DMT alters cortical travelling waves.
Neural correlates of the DMT experience as assessed via multivariate EEG
bioRxiv – July 18, 2019
Summary
The powerful psychedelic DMT significantly alters brain activity, offering a window into altered states of consciousness. Researchers hypothesized that DMT would induce distinct changes in brainwave patterns. Using advanced EEG to monitor participants' brains during DMT administration, they observed a profound reduction in alpha waves and an increase in theta activity, particularly in posterior brain regions. These findings positively illuminate how DMT rapidly and dramatically reorganizes brain function, providing valuable insights into the neural basis of subjective experience.
Abstract
Neural correlates of the DMT experience as assessed via multivariate EEG
From molecules to meaning: unpacking the antidepressant mechanisms of psychedelic drugs.
Expert review of clinical pharmacology – June 11, 2025
Summary
Breakthrough research reveals psychedelic compounds like psilocybin and LSD can rapidly alleviate depression through multiple interconnected pathways. Unlike traditional antidepressants, these substances work by simultaneously affecting brain chemistry, psychological patterns, and consciousness. The therapeutic effects emerge from a complex interplay of biological changes and meaningful experiences during psychedelic-assisted therapy.
Abstract
Psychedelic compounds are emerging treatments for depression, capable of producing rapid and lasting symptom reduction after 1-2 administrations in...
Chemical Reactivity Parameters to Analyze Psychedelics: How Do We Explain the Potency of the Drugs?
ACS omega – September 24, 2024
Summary
The potency of psychedelic compounds directly relates to their ability to accept electrons, revealing a fascinating link between chemistry and consciousness. Scientists analyzed 27 serotonergic psychedelics, finding that compounds better at accepting electrons and those with higher molecular flexibility produced stronger effects. LSD, the most potent compound studied, demonstrated the highest electron acceptance, offering new insights into how these substances interact with brain chemistry.
Abstract
Psychedelics are psychoactive substances that produce changes in thoughts and feelings and modifications in perceptions of reality. The most potent...
Fire Kasina advanced meditation produces experiences comparable to psychedelic and near-death experiences: A pilot study.
Explore (New York, N.Y.) – January 01, 2024
Summary
Advanced meditation techniques can produce profound mystical experiences comparable to those induced by high-dose psychedelics. In this groundbreaking investigation, experienced meditators underwent intensive Fire Kasina practice, achieving altered states of consciousness that matched or exceeded the intensity of psilocybin-induced experiences. Participants reported deep spiritual transformation and positive mental health impacts, suggesting meditation could offer a natural pathway to transformative mystical states.
Abstract
Psychedelic-assisted therapy studies suggest that the induction of "mystical experiences" combined with psycho-therapy is a possible intervention f...
[The nursing role in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy].
Revue de l'infirmiere – January 01, 2024
Summary
Nurses play a vital role in the emerging field of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, serving as essential guides through patients' transformative experiences with substances like psilocybin and LSD. Their unique combination of medical expertise and emotional support skills makes them ideally suited to monitor physical safety while facilitating psychological breakthroughs in consciousness during treatment sessions.
Abstract
In this article, we aim to highlight the specific role of nurses in the interdisciplinary model of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. We argue tha...
The flattening of spacetime hierarchy of the N,N-dimethyltryptamine brain state is characterized by harmonic decomposition of spacetime (HADES) framework.
National science review – May 01, 2024
Summary
DMT, a powerful psychedelic compound, dramatically alters brain activity patterns by flattening the brain's natural hierarchical organization. Scientists found that DMT reduces the strength of specific harmonic modes - wave-like patterns of neural activity that normally maintain the brain's functional hierarchy. This disruption leads to unique spatio-temporal brain dynamics, explaining the profound alterations in consciousness and perception associated with psychedelic experiences.
Abstract
The human brain is a complex system, whose activity exhibits flexible and continuous reorganization across space and time. The decomposition of who...
LSD-induced changes in the functional connectivity of distinct thalamic nuclei.
NeuroImage – December 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics like LSD create profound changes in brain connectivity, particularly through the thalamus - our brain's sensory gateway. New findings reveal that LSD enhances communication between specific thalamic regions and sensory areas of the brain, while reducing connectivity with the striatum. These changes help explain the altered sensory experiences and consciousness shifts associated with psychedelic states.
Abstract
The role of the thalamus in mediating the effects of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) was recently proposed in a model of communication and corrobo...
High-flow oxygenation therapy for a sedated elderly frail patient with hiccups undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation.
JA clinical reports – April 21, 2025
Summary
High-flow nasal oxygenation therapy proved remarkably effective in managing hiccups and maintaining stable breathing during a delicate heart valve procedure. The technique helped an 82-year-old patient with severe heart issues undergo transcatheter aortic valve implantation under conscious sedation, preventing complications and unwanted body movements while ensuring proper oxygen levels throughout the procedure.
Abstract
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) can be performed under sedation, but body movements may lower the efficacy of the procedure and may ...
Regulation of REM and NREM Sleep by Preoptic Glutamatergic Neurons.
Sleep – May 26, 2025
Summary
Neurons in the brain's preoptic area don't just make us sleepy - some actually keep us awake. Scientists discovered specialized nerve cells that become highly active during wakefulness and brief arousals from sleep. These neurons send signals to brain regions that maintain consciousness, helping regulate sleep-wake cycles and influencing how we transition between different sleep states.
Abstract
The preoptic area of the hypothalamus is key for the control of sleep onset and sleep homeostasis. Although traditionally considered exclusively so...
Contemplating on human dignity: who counts as human?
Journal of medical ethics and history of medicine – January 01, 2024
Summary
The quest to define what makes us uniquely human goes beyond biology. While we can identify human species through physical traits, the philosophical definition centers on consciousness and personal autonomy. This analysis reveals that self-awareness and freedom of choice are the core attributes that define human identification, rather than purely biological classifications. These findings reshape our understanding of human dignity and rights.
Abstract
The fundamental topic in humanities is clearly the study of humans. Neglecting the understanding and recognition of humans can hinder us from achie...
5-HT2AR and NMDAR psychedelics induce similar hyper-synchronous states in the rat cognitive-limbic cortex-basal ganglia system.
Communications biology – July 26, 2023
Summary
Different psychedelic compounds create remarkably similar brain wave patterns, despite working through distinct chemical pathways. Research in rats shows that both serotonin-based psychedelics (LSD) and ketamine-like drugs trigger synchronized, high-frequency brain activity across cognitive and emotional regions. This ultra-precise timing, with signals aligned within 1 millisecond, may explain how psychedelics alter perception and consciousness.
Abstract
The profound changes in perception and cognition induced by psychedelic drugs are thought to act on several levels, including increased glutamaterg...
Systems-level analysis of local field potentials reveals differential effects of lysergic acid diethylamide and ketamine on neuronal activity and functional connectivity.
Frontiers in neuroscience – January 01, 2023
Summary
Breakthrough brain recordings reveal distinct neural signatures of two powerful mind-altering compounds. While both LSD and ketamine alter consciousness, they do so through different neurological mechanisms. Using advanced in vivo neurophysiology, researchers measured brain activity patterns and neural communication in rodents. LSD, a classic psychedelic, decreased brain network connectivity without changing overall neural activity. Ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic, both increased neural firing and reduced connectivity between brain regions.
Abstract
Psychedelic substances have in recent years attracted considerable interest as potential treatments for several psychiatric conditions, including d...
Receptor-informed network control theory links LSD and psilocybin to a flattening of the brain's control energy landscape.
Nature communications – October 03, 2022
Summary
Psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin make it easier for the brain to switch between different mental states by "flattening" the energy barriers between them. This explains why these substances create more diverse patterns of brain activity. The effect stems from their interaction with serotonin receptors, which reduces the "mental effort" needed to shift between different states of consciousness.
Abstract
Psychedelics including lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and psilocybin temporarily alter subjective experience through their neurochemical effects....
Effect of Esketamine on Cognitive Recovery After Propofol Sedation for Outpatient Colonoscopy: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
Drug design, development and therapy – January 01, 2025
Summary
Adding esketamine to propofol during colonoscopy sedation improves mental clarity afterward. In this breakthrough finding, patients receiving the combination showed 95% cognitive recovery versus 83% with propofol alone. The addition also reduced side effects like low blood pressure and slow heart rate, while maintaining similar discharge times and boosting patient satisfaction.
Abstract
While esketamine shows promise as an adjunct in procedural sedation, its impact on postoperative cognitive recovery remains incompletely characteri...
How Do People Who Undergo Ketamine Treatment for a Psychiatric Problem Subjectively Experience This Intervention? A Meta-Synthesis of Qualitative Studies.
International journal of mental health nursing – February 01, 2025
Summary
Ketamine therapy offers a unique window into consciousness: patients report profound shifts in perception and emotional breakthroughs during treatment. Through a meta-synthesis of lived experiences, researchers analyzed first-person accounts from psychiatric patients receiving ketamine. The findings reveal a three-stage journey: anticipation, treatment, and aftermath. Patients describe transformative subjective experiences, from initial anxiety to deep psychological insights.
Abstract
Ketamine treatment has shown promising effects for different mental disorders. Yet, little is known on how people who receive ketamine for a psychi...
Cortical high-frequency oscillations (≈ 110 Hz) in cats are state-dependent and enhanced by a subanesthetic dose of ketamine.
Behavioural brain research – January 05, 2025
Summary
Ketamine, a powerful psychedelic and anesthetic drug, dramatically affects brain wave patterns in unexpected ways. Scientists found that low doses boost ultra-fast brain oscillations (HFO) during wakefulness, particularly when breathing in. These enhanced brain waves flow from smell-processing regions to decision-making areas, suggesting how ketamine might influence cognition and consciousness.
Abstract
Ketamine is an NMDA receptor antagonist that has antidepressant and anesthetic properties. At subanesthetic doses, ketamine induces transient psych...
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Effect of Continuous Infusion of Different Doses of Esketamine on the Bispectral Index During Sevoflurane Anesthesia: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Drug design, development and therapy – January 01, 2024
Summary
During surgery, precise monitoring of consciousness levels is crucial. New research shows that esketamine, when combined with sevoflurane anesthesia, can affect brain activity measurements. Using the bispectral index to track awareness, doctors found that controlled doses of esketamine increased brain wave patterns while maintaining safe sedation. This led to better pain control and stable vital signs, marking a promising advance in surgical anesthesia.
Abstract
To investigate and quantify the effect of continuous esketamine infusion at different doses on the bispectral index (BIS) during sevoflurane anesth...
Inner Light and the Eyes of the Soul: A Phenomenological Analysis of Teresa of Ávila's Visions through the Lens of Phosphene Taxonomy
PsyArXiv Preprints – June 16, 2025
Summary
Mystics across cultures, from Teresa of Ávila to Tibetan sage Milarepa, have reported seeing intense inner light during deep meditation. New analysis reveals these visions match patterns of phosphenes—natural light phenomena in our visual system. By comparing Teresa's detailed accounts with those of Hildegard of Bingen and Longchenpa, researchers found that mystical luminosity experiences follow consistent stages during contemplation and altered states of consciousness, suggesting a universal basis for spiritual light visions.
Abstract
This paper examines the visionary experiences of Saint Teresa of Ávila (1515–1582) as described in The Life of Teresa of Jesus, through the lens of...
Through the Looking Glass: Psychedelics As a Window into Mindfulness and Mind-Body Health.
J Integr Complement Med – January 02, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics may offer unique insights into mindfulness practices and their effects on mental and physical wellbeing. Research shows that both psychedelic experiences and mindfulness meditation can increase body awareness, emotional processing, and psychological flexibility. The overlap suggests these altered states of consciousness may work through similar mechanisms to promote healing and self-discovery.
Abstract
Through the Looking Glass: Psychedelics As a Window into Mindfulness and Mind-Body Health.
A Heuristic Approach: Against Consensus Definitions of Psychedelics.
Psychedelic Med (New Rochelle) – December 13, 2023
Summary
Current debates about what counts as a "psychedelic" substance have created confusion in both research and public discourse. Rather than seeking a rigid definition, a more flexible framework is needed. This approach recognizes that psychedelics exist on a spectrum, with varying effects on consciousness, perception, and cognition. Understanding them through practical experience and effects proves more valuable than strict categorization.
Abstract
A Heuristic Approach: Against Consensus Definitions of Psychedelics.
Vigilance state dissociation induced by 5-MeO DMT in mice
Research Square – May 06, 2025
Summary
A powerful psychedelic compound found in some plants can create a unique state where mice appear awake but show brain patterns typical of deep sleep. Scientists found that 5-MeO-DMT triggers this unusual "mixed state," where physical activity continues while brain waves slow dramatically. This discovery offers insights into consciousness and could help explain how psychedelics affect the brain.
Abstract
Vigilance state dissociation induced by 5-MeO DMT in mice
The mechanistic divide in psychedelic neuroscience: An unbridgeable gap?
Neurotherapeutics – January 25, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD work through two distinct pathways in the brain - molecular changes at the cellular level and broader network-level effects on consciousness. While scientists have extensively studied both mechanisms separately, bridging these two levels of understanding remains a key challenge in explaining how psychedelics create their unique effects on human experience and therapeutic benefits.
Abstract
The mechanistic divide in psychedelic neuroscience: An unbridgeable gap?
The Psychedelic Renaissance: A Catholic Perspective.
Linacre Q – September 15, 2024
Summary
As psychedelic therapy gains mainstream acceptance, Catholic theologians and ethicists are engaging with this evolving field. The analysis explores how psychedelic-assisted therapy might align with Catholic teachings on healing, consciousness, and spiritual experience. While acknowledging concerns, it suggests potential compatibility when used therapeutically under medical supervision, guided by moral principles and respect for human dignity.
Abstract
The Psychedelic Renaissance: A Catholic Perspective.
Psychedelics action and schizophrenia.
Pharmacol Rep – October 30, 2023
Summary
New research reveals fascinating parallels between psychedelic experiences and schizophrenia symptoms, while highlighting key differences in brain chemistry. Scientists found that while both conditions affect similar neural pathways, psychedelics create temporary, controlled changes, unlike schizophrenia's chronic disruptions. These findings advance our understanding of consciousness and mental health.
Abstract
Psychedelics action and schizophrenia.
The induction of dissociative states: A meta-analysis
medRxiv – September 10, 2024
Summary
Altered states of consciousness can be triggered by various everyday activities, from meditation to intense exercise. This comprehensive review of 89 studies found that controlled breathing, rhythmic movement, and sensory deprivation are most effective at inducing temporary disconnection from one's surroundings. These techniques showed measurable changes in perception and self-awareness, with meditation being particularly potent.
Abstract
The induction of dissociative states: A meta-analysis
Modulating self-referential processing through meditation and psychedelics: is scientific investigation of self-transcendence clinically relevant?
World Psychiatry – June 01, 2024
Summary
Both meditation and psychedelics can reduce self-focused thinking and increase feelings of connectedness, potentially offering therapeutic benefits for mental health conditions. Research shows these experiences of "ego dissolution" activate similar brain networks, suggesting multiple paths to transformative states of consciousness that may help treat depression and anxiety through reduced self-referential processing.
Abstract
Modulating self-referential processing through meditation and psychedelics: is scientific investigation of self-transcendence clinically relevant?
Trips and neurotransmitters: Discovering principled patterns across 6850 hallucinogenic experiences.
Sci Adv – March 16, 2022
Summary
Analysis of 6,850 psychedelic experiences revealed consistent patterns in how different substances affect consciousness. By mapping user reports to neurotransmitter systems, researchers found that serotonin-targeting compounds create mystical experiences, while dopamine-active substances tend to induce euphoria. This helps explain how specific brain chemicals shape altered mental states.
Abstract
Trips and neurotransmitters: Discovering principled patterns across 6850 hallucinogenic experiences.
Multimodal neurophenomenology of advanced concentration absorption meditation: An intensively sampled case study of Jhana.
Neuroimage – December 14, 2024
Summary
Deep meditation can trigger profound shifts in consciousness, similar to altered states. A fascinating case study of an expert meditator revealed distinct brain activity patterns during advanced absorption states. Brain scans showed increased activity in attention networks while emotional centers quieted down. The findings help explain how deep meditation practices can lead to heightened awareness and inner calm.
Abstract
Multimodal neurophenomenology of advanced concentration absorption meditation: An intensively sampled case study of Jhana.