Trance is a very ancient altered state of consciousness, that is known and recognized explicitly by more than 95% of the “primitive” tribes. It is often related to ecstasy experiences such as religious ecstasy, and there are many references to this state in literature and even common expressions.
According to Wikipedia “Trance is a state of semi-consciousness in which a person is not self-aware and is either altogether unresponsive to external stimuli (but nevertheless capable of pursuing and realizing an aim) or is selectively responsive in following the directions of the person (if any) who has induced the trance. Trance states may occur involuntarily and unbidden.“
The interesting part of the definition is that it is an altered state of consciousness where it is nevertheless possible to pursuing and realizing an aim. It is at the same time detached, and still enabling consistent action.
Wikipedia also offers the following definition which I find very adequate from my experience: “trance may be understood as a way for the mind to change the way it filters information in order to provide more efficient use of the mind’s resources“
And it is exactly this type of state that I have been introduced to, and that I am practicing daily for the last few weeks – because it appears that it is possible to induce trance only though the application of one’s will.
In a series of post I will describe a personal journey into an altered state of consciousness – cognitive trance – that I was privileged to undertake this year. Previous posts in this series:
