Neuroanthropology of shamanic trance: a case study with a ritual specialist from Mexico.
Frontiers in psychology January 1, 2024 Hugo Toriz, Antonella Fagetti, Guadalupe Terán-pérez et al. 5 citations
An 81-year-old Mexican shaman, who recognized her gift in childhood, underwent electroencephalographic recording while performing three activities: reading cards for diagnosis, performing a limpia (cleansing) with eggs, stones, and bells, and entering an incorporation trance believed to allow a deceased entity to use her body as a communication channel. Alpha activity appeared when she was concentrated, suggesting a hypnagogic-like state. Predominant beta and gamma oscillations were observed, indicating a potential plastic phenomenon that modulates the assimilation of external and internal referents, guiding action, attention, and integration of mnemonic, sensory, and imaginative elements. The authors interpret shamanic trance as a biological potential of the human brain to induce non-ordinary states of consciousness shaped by cultural beliefs and practices.