Allison Saltzman

Non-Ordinary States of Consciousness and Human Transformation: A Narrative Literature Review of Neural, Physiological, and Phenomenological Patterns Through a Quantum Science Lens

Journal of Quantum Science of Consciousness. June 29, 2026 Allison Saltzman

Non-ordinary states of consciousness (NOSC), such as those arising from meditation, yoga, breathwork, psychedelics, near-death experiences, and mystical states, involve coordinated shifts across neural, physiological, and phenomenological dimensions rather than isolated changes at a single level. These states are associated with alterations in self-referential brain networks, brain wave activity, functional connectivity, autonomic regulation, interoceptive awareness, self-boundaries, time and body perception, unity, meaning, intuitive insight, and interconnectedness. Such shifts may contribute to psychological transformation by loosening ordinary patterns of self-reference and opening access to expanded awareness, meaning, connection, and potential. However, transformation is not automatic; lasting change depends on intention, context, continued practice, and integration.