In reading “Cambridge Study: Mindfulness Training and Altered States of Consciousness,” you will uncover compelling findings about how mindfulness training can profoundly affect your state of being. According to a recent study conducted by the University of Cambridge, mindfulness practices can lead to altered states of consciousness, including sensations of disembodiment and unity. While these experiences can sometimes be unsettling, the research underscores the critical need for transparent communication between you and your mindfulness instructor about potential side effects. Conducted from 2015 to 2016 with 670 participants, the study discovered that those who engaged in mindfulness were twice as likely to encounter altered states compared to the control group. The authors argue that heightened mindfulness practice can drastically change your sensory, self, and body perceptions, akin to the effects produced by psychotropic substances. Published in PLOS ONE, these findings are backed by the University of Cambridge and the National Institute for Health Research, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and open discussion in your mindfulness journey. Have you ever wondered how mindfulness training might affect your consciousness? Recent findings from a study by the University of Cambridge reveal that mindfulness doesn’t just help you relax; it can also induce altered states of consciousness. These discoveries could enhance your mindfulness practice or make you more cautious, depending on your perspective.
Cambridge Study: Mindfulness Training and Altered States of Consciousness
Introduction
Mindfulness practice has been praised for its benefits ranging from stress reduction to improved focus. However, what many don’t realize is that it can also lead to experiences often described as altered states of consciousness (ASCs). This could be both intriguing and sometimes unsettling, making it important to understand fully what these experiences entail.
The Study Setup
The Participants and Timeline
In a randomized controlled trial conducted from 2015 to 2016, researchers at the University of Cambridge examined the experiences of 670 participants. These individuals were divided into two groups: one that practiced mindfulness and a control group that did not engage in mindfulness activities.
Methodology
Participants in the mindfulness group engaged in practices such as mindful breathing, body scans, and meditation. Over the course of the study, they documented their experiences, particularly any instances of altered consciousness. The control group, on the other hand, followed their usual routines without incorporating mindfulness practices.
Key Findings
Increased Likelihood of Altered States
The study found that participants who practiced mindfulness were twice as likely to experience ASCs compared to those in the control group. These altered states ranged from feelings of disembodiment and unity to more blissful states.
Types of Altered States
What exactly are these altered states? The study identified several types, described in the table below:
| Type of Altered State | Description |
|---|---|
| Disembodiment | Feeling disconnected from one’s physical body. |
| Unity | A sense of oneness with the universe or surroundings. |
| Blissful States | Experiences of profound joy or contentment. |
Understanding the Experiences
Similarities to Psychotropic Drugs
Interestingly, these altered states share similarities with experiences induced by psychotropic drugs. This similarity is both fascinating and important to note for anyone venturing into deep mindfulness practice. The changes in sensory, self, and body perception are not just trivial side effects but significant experiences that merit attention.
Why It Matters
Experiencing altered states can be both enlightening and unsettling. This duality is why it’s crucial for mindfulness practitioners to be aware of these potential states. Open communication with instructors and healthcare professionals can help manage these experiences effectively.
Impact on Sensory and Bodily Perception
Sensory Changes
Frequent mindfulness practice can lead to changes in how you perceive sensory information. You might notice heightened sensitivity to sounds, sights, and even smells. These changes can alter your day-to-day experiences, making everyday activities feel different.
Self-Perception
Mindfulness can change how you perceive yourself. You might experience a shift in your sense of identity or feel a newfound sense of interconnectedness with the world around you. While these changes can be enlightening, they can also be confusing if you’re not prepared for them.
Practical Implications
For Practitioners
If you’re practicing mindfulness, it’s essential to be informed about these potential experiences. Discuss any concerns with your mindfulness teacher or healthcare provider to ensure you’re navigating your practice safely and effectively.
For Instructors
If you’re instructing others in mindfulness, make sure to inform them about the possibility of these altered states. Open communication can help your students manage their experiences and mitigate any unsettling feelings they might encounter.
Results and Interpretation
Statistical Outcomes
The study’s results were compelling. Participants in the mindfulness group reported a significantly higher incidence of ASCs. This data can help adjust mindfulness training programs to better support participants.
Recommendations for Future Research
The authors of the study recommend more research into the link between mindfulness and altered states. Understanding the underlying mechanisms could lead to improved mindfulness techniques and better support systems for practitioners.
Conclusion
The Cambridge study sheds light on an often-overlooked aspect of mindfulness training—its ability to induce altered states of consciousness. While these experiences can be enlightening, they can also be unsettling. Open communication and informed practice can help manage these experiences, ensuring that your mindfulness journey is both safe and transformative.
References
The research findings were published in PLOS ONE and supported by the University of Cambridge and the National Institute for Health Research. For more detailed information, you can refer to the published study in PLOS ONE.