open encyclopedia * Article Search: * *
*
*

Altered state of consciousness

From open-encyclopedia.com - the free encyclopedia.

The phrase altered state of consciousness was coined in the 1970s and describes intentionally, often temporary, induced changes in one's mental state, sometimes attained through the ingestion of recreational drugs and psychedelic substances such as LSD, peyote, marijuana, and mescaline.

An altered state of consciousness can also come about through the use of alcohol, a sensory deprivation tank, hypnosis, meditation, prayer, disciplines (e.g. yoga) or a trauma-inducing accident.

Naturally occurring altered states of consciousness include channeling, dreams, premonitions, euphoria, ecstasy, limerence, and out of body experiences.

Related articles

References

  • James, William The varieties of religious experience (1902) ISBN 0-14-039034-0

External links

Contribute Found an omission? You can freely contribute to this Wikipedia article. Edit Article
Copyright © 2003-2004 Zeeshan Muhammad. All rights reserved. Legal notices. Part of the New Frontier Information Network.