How Chanting Relates to Cognitive Function, Altered States and Quality of Life
Brain Sciences October 27, 2022 Gemma Perry, Vince Polito, Narayan Sankaran et al. 32 citations
Chanting, the rhythmic vocalization or mental repetition of a sound or phrase, is associated with altered states of consciousness and cognitive benefits, which in turn relate to quality of life. A global survey of 456 English-speaking regular chanters from 32 countries found that stronger intentionality (devotion, intention, sound) and higher engagement (experience, practice duration, regularity) predicted more mystical experiences, flow states, and mindfulness, and less mind wandering. Call-and-response chanters reported more mystical experiences, while repetitive prayer was linked to less mind wandering. The effects on quality of life were indirect, through altered states and cognitive benefits.