The nature of the shamanic state of consciousness: a review.

A common psychobiological process may underlie various altered states of consciousness (ASC) used by shamans, meditators, and mediums, but the shamanic state of consciousness (SSC) can be physiologically distinguished from possession trance states. A review of psychophysiological literature on trances and temporal lobe seizure conditions suggests that both SSC and possession trances involve hippocampal-septal stimulation, while possession states additionally involve the amygdala. This difference helps clarify the terms "shamanic," "shamanistic," and "mediumistic." The SSC appears to be physiologically and psychologically beneficial, and a genetic component likely influences one's ability to enter it and other ASC.

Study at a glance

Abstract

A review of the literature suggests that a common psychobiological process is associated with various altered states of consciousness (ASC) utilized by shamans, meditators, and mediums. However, the shamanic state of consciousness (SSC) can be differentiated physiologically from possession trance states. The psychophysiological literature on different types of trances and on seizure conditions associated with the temporal lobe discharge syndrome is reviewed. On this basis, it is hypothesized that while both the SSC and possession trances involve hippocampal-septal stimulation, the difference between the SSC and the possession states includes the amygdala involvement associated with the latter. This criterion and others establish a basis for differentiating between the terms "shamanic," "shamanistic," and "mediumistic." The physiological concomitants of the SSC make it appear to be both physiologically and psychologically beneficial as well as indicating that it is most likely that there is a genetic component affecting one's ability to enter the SSC and other ASC.