The Therapeutic Power of Altered States of Consciousness

I explore the therapeutic potential of altered states of consciousness (ASCs), including mild everyday experience. Definitions of healing are discussed. The effect of ASCs on the stress process is considered, in the literature and in fieldwork examples. The power of imagination within ASC experience is highlighted as critical to the healing process. The power of prayer is also noted as a healing tool, in sacred and secular environments. A variety of activities which induce therapeutic ASCs are discussed, including music, sport and television viewing. Shamanic healing is briefly revisited from earlier chapters, and the importance of multiple levels of consciousness for healing is emphasized.