Frontiers in psychology
January 1, 2022
Charlotte Grégoire, Nolwenn Marie, Corine Sombrun et al.
20 citations
A protocol describes a planned trial comparing three group interventions—hypnosis, mindful self-compassion meditation, and self-induced cognitive trance (SICT)—against a no-intervention control for improving quality of life in cancer patients who have completed active treatment within the past year. The study targets cancer-related fatigue, emotional distress, sleep difficulties, pain, and cognitive problems. Each participant chooses their preferred arm. Data from questionnaires, neurobiological measures, and medical records are collected at baseline, immediately after the intervention, and at 3- and 12-month follow-ups. The trial aims to enroll 160 patients and will assess short- and long-term effectiveness.
Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences
May 9, 2024
Olivia Gosseries, Nolwenn Marie, Yannick Lafon et al.
16 citations
Trance states, found across cultures from shamanic rituals to contemporary practices, are increasingly studied by researchers and clinicians. This review describes their common phenomenological features, such as altered awareness and perception. Using advanced neuroscientific techniques, it reports on the neural mechanisms underlying these states, including changes in brain connectivity and dynamics. The review also examines clinical applications, suggesting that trance states may be useful in therapeutic settings. By connecting subjective experience, brain function, and practical use, it advances understanding of trance and its potential benefits.
BMC complementary medicine and therapies
November 4, 2024
Nolwenn Marie, Yannick Lafon, Aminata Bicego et al.
13 citations
Shamanic trances are non-pathological altered states of consciousness that differ from normal waking states in phenomenology and neurophysiology. A review of 27 studies classified findings into four dimensions: phenomenology, psychology, neuro-physiological functions, and clinical applications. The trances are influenced by multiple personal and environmental variables and may offer therapeutic potential, but the evidence is preliminary and requires rigorous studies to assess effectiveness for complementary therapies. The review highlights shamanic trance as a multifaceted area of study at the intersections of consciousness, spirituality, and therapy.
Neuroscience of consciousness
January 1, 2024
Charlotte Grégoire, Corine Sombrun, Philippe Lenaif et al.
10 citations
Two Western trance practices, auto-induced cognitive trance (AICT) and Mahorikatan® trance (MT), both derived from traditional shamanic training, share core phenomenological features such as emotional expression, perceptual changes, a feeling of unicity, and expanded consciousness. AICT participants commonly reported body movements, vocalizations, increased creativity, visions of entities or places, and interaction with the environment, while MT participants commonly reported body dissolution. Most participants in both groups reported positive effects on personal life. The findings characterize the similarities and differences between these trance states and suggest further research into their potential clinical applications.