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Robinson OC, Evans J, Luke D, McAlpine R, Sahely A, Fisher A, Sundeman S, Ketzitzidou Argyri E, Murphy-Beiner A, Michelle K, Prideaux E. Coming back together: a qualitative survey study of coping and support strategies used by people to cope with extended difficulties after the use of psychedelic drugs. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1369715. [PMID: 38863668 PMCID: PMC11166081 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1369715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction A growing body of literature is investigating the difficulties that some individuals encounter after psychedelic experiences. Existing research has explored the nature and predictors of these difficulties; however, a research gap exists in understanding how individuals endeavour to cope with such difficulties. Methods The current study collected data from an international cohort of 608 participants who reported experiencing difficulties that persisted for at least one day after a psychedelic experience. They provided written data on how they used coping strategies to alleviate these difficulties. The qualitative analysis of the written data on coping was conducted using Structured Tabular Thematic Analysis. Results A wide range of individual and social coping strategies were employed that were found helpful. The most common individual strategies were meditation and prayer, followed by self-educational activities such as reading and journaling. The most prevalent forms of social coping involved seeking support from friends or family members, followed by obtaining assistance from a therapist or coach. Features of social coping that were reported to be helpful included feeling heard/accepted, a non-judgemental attitude and sharing similar experiences. Discussion Our findings hold potential for informing the design of therapeutic interventions and educational resources aimed at enhancing positive outcomes for those experiencing extended difficulties after psychedelic use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver C. Robinson
- School of Human Sciences, University of Greenwich, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jules Evans
- Challenging Psychedelic Experiences Project, London, United Kingdom
| | - David Luke
- School of Human Sciences, University of Greenwich, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rosalind McAlpine
- Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University of College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Aneta Sahely
- School of Human Sciences, University of Greenwich, London, United Kingdom
| | - Amy Fisher
- School of Human Sciences, University of Greenwich, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stian Sundeman
- School of Human Sciences, University of Greenwich, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Katrina Michelle
- Department of Applied Psychology, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Ed Prideaux
- Perception Restoration Foundation, San Juan, Puerto Rico
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Matos J, Querido A, Laranjeira C. Spiritual Care through the Lens of Portuguese Palliative Care Professionals: A Qualitative Thematic Analysis. Behav Sci (Basel) 2024; 14:134. [PMID: 38392487 PMCID: PMC10886057 DOI: 10.3390/bs14020134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Providing spiritual care is paramount to patient-centered care. Despite the growing body of data and its recognized importance in palliative care, spiritual care continues to be the least advanced and most overlooked aspect. This study aims to explore the perceptions and experiences of spiritual care from the perspective of PC professionals and identify their strategies to address spiritual care issues. Data were collected through semi-structured personal interviews and managed using WebQDA software (Universidade de Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal). All data were analyzed using thematic content analysis, as recommended by Clark and Braun. The study included 15 palliative care professionals with a mean age of 38.51 [SD = 5.71] years. Most participants identified as lacking specific training in spiritual care. Thematic analysis spawned three main themes: (1) spiritual care as key to palliative care, (2) floating between "shadows" and "light" in providing spiritual care, and (3) strategies for competent and spiritual-centered care. Spiritual care was considered challenging by its very nature and given the individual, relational, and organizational constraints lived by professionals working in palliative care. With support from healthcare institutions, spiritual care can and should become a defining feature of the type, nature, and quality of palliative care provision. Care providers should be sensitive to spiritual needs and highly skilled and capable of an in-the-moment approach to respond to these needs. Further research on educating and training in spiritual care competence is a priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Matos
- Hospital Palliative Care Team, Local Health Unit of the Leiria Region, Hospital of Santo André, Rua das Olhalvas, 2410-197 Leiria, Portugal
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic University of Leiria, Campus 2, Morro do Lena, Alto do Vieiro, Apartado 4137, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
| | - Ana Querido
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic University of Leiria, Campus 2, Morro do Lena, Alto do Vieiro, Apartado 4137, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
- Centre for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Polytechnic University of Leiria, Campus 5, Rua de Santo André-66-68, 2410-541 Leiria, Portugal
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), NursID, University of Porto, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
| | - Carlos Laranjeira
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic University of Leiria, Campus 2, Morro do Lena, Alto do Vieiro, Apartado 4137, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
- Centre for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Polytechnic University of Leiria, Campus 5, Rua de Santo André-66-68, 2410-541 Leiria, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), University of Évora, 7000-801 Évora, Portugal
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Reeder RR, Sala G, van Leeuwen TM. A novel model of divergent predictive perception. Neurosci Conscious 2024; 2024:niae006. [PMID: 38348335 PMCID: PMC10860603 DOI: 10.1093/nc/niae006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Predictive processing theories state that our subjective experience of reality is shaped by a balance of expectations based on previous knowledge about the world (i.e. priors) and confidence in sensory input from the environment. Divergent experiences (e.g. hallucinations and synaesthesia) are likely to occur when there is an imbalance between one's reliance on priors and sensory input. In a novel theoretical model, inspired by both predictive processing and psychological principles, we propose that predictable divergent experiences are associated with natural or environmentally induced prior/sensory imbalances: inappropriately strong or inflexible (i.e. maladaptive) high-level priors (beliefs) combined with low sensory confidence can result in reality discrimination issues, a characteristic of psychosis; maladaptive low-level priors (sensory expectations) combined with high sensory confidence can result in atypical sensory sensitivities and persistent divergent percepts, a characteristic of synaesthesia. Crucially, we propose that whether different divergent experiences manifest with dominantly sensory (e.g. hallucinations) or nonsensory characteristics (e.g. delusions) depends on mental imagery ability, which is a spectrum from aphantasia (absent or weak imagery) to hyperphantasia (extremely vivid imagery). We theorize that imagery is critically involved in shaping the sensory richness of divergent perceptual experience. In sum, to predict a range of divergent perceptual experiences in both clinical and general populations, three factors must be accounted for: a maladaptive use of priors, individual level of confidence in sensory input, and mental imagery ability. These ideas can be expressed formally using nonparametric regression modeling. We provide evidence for our theory from previous work and deliver predictions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reshanne R Reeder
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3BX, United Kingdom
| | - Giovanni Sala
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3BX, United Kingdom
| | - Tessa M van Leeuwen
- Department of Communication and Cognition, Tilburg School of Humanities and Digital Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Crowe M, Manuel J, Carlyle D, Lacey C. Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for treatment-resistant depression: Which psychotherapy? Int J Ment Health Nurs 2023; 32:1766-1772. [PMID: 37589380 DOI: 10.1111/inm.13214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
This perspective paper explores the choice of psychotherapy for psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for treatment-resistant depression. There is evidence to support the use of some psychotherapies in treating 'treatment-resistant' depression, and emerging evidence for the efficacy of psilocybin. The next step which is the focus of this paper is to identify psychotherapies that are both effective and congruent with the psilocybin experience. The evidence for the efficacy of the psychotherapies is drawn from a Cochrane review and the analysis of their congruence with the psilocybin experience is drawn from a qualitative meta-synthesis of the experience of psilocybin. The paper will examine whether three one-to-one psychotherapies identified as effective in the treatment of treatment-resistant depression are compatible with the psilocybin experience. Each psychotherapy will be examined in relation to its congruence with the qualitative evidence that suggests the choice of psychotherapy needs to give priority to the subjective experience, facilitate emotional processing, support connectedness with others, acceptance of the self as emotional and support change based on the person's insights into their relationships with others and the world in which they live. We conclude that interpersonal psychotherapy and intensive short-term dynamic psychotherapy align with that experience, although others are currently being trialled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Crowe
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Jenni Manuel
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
- Māori and Indigenous Health Institute, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Dave Carlyle
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Cameron Lacey
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
- Māori and Indigenous Health Institute, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
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Kaup KK, Vasser M, Tulver K, Munk M, Pikamäe J, Aru J. Psychedelic replications in virtual reality and their potential as a therapeutic instrument: an open-label feasibility study. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1088896. [PMID: 36937731 PMCID: PMC10022432 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1088896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Recent research has shown promising results for the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics. One popular view claims that these benefits are mediated by the subjective experiences induced by these substances. Based on this, we designed a virtual reality experience, Psyrreal, that mimics the phenomenological components of psychedelic experiences. Aims We aimed to investigate the therapeutic efficacy of Psyrreal and psychedelic VR experiences in treating depressive symptoms as well as explore the effect of Psyrreal on subjective factors which have been suggested to mediate the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics. Methods In this open-label feasibility study, thirteen participants with mild-to-moderate depression underwent a 2-day therapeutic intervention implementing Psyrreal. Depressive symptoms were evaluated by the Emotional State Questionnaire (EST-Q2) at the start of the intervention and 2 weeks after. A thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews after Psyrreal was also conducted as an additional assessment of the method. Results A 2-day intervention implementing Psyrreal led to significant decreases in depressive symptoms at the 2-week follow-up (n = 10, p = 0.007, Hedges' g = 1.046) measured by the Emotional State Questionnaire (EST-Q2). The analysis of semi-structured interviews suggests that Psyrreal could lead to insight and alterations in the sense of self in some people. Conclusion This work proposes a novel method using virtual reality to augment the treatment of psychological disorders as well as to precisely investigate the mediating subjective factors of the therapeutic effects of psychedelic substances. Our preliminary results suggest that VR experiences combined with psychological support show potential in treating depressive symptoms and further research into similar methods is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Madis Vasser
- Institute of Computer Science, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kadi Tulver
- Institute of Computer Science, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Mari Munk
- Psychiatry Clinic of North Estonia Medical Centre, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Juhan Pikamäe
- Institute of Computer Science, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Jaan Aru
- Institute of Computer Science, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
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Stairway to Heaven: A First-Person Account of Noesis. J Nerv Ment Dis 2022; 210:850-854. [PMID: 35759714 PMCID: PMC9616598 DOI: 10.1097/nmd.0000000000001550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Mystical and spiritual experiences have been reported throughout human history. Causal explanations for these range from psychopathology of mental illness, drugs such as hallucinogens, neurological disorders including temporal lobe epilepsy, and genuine mystical or spiritual awakening. There is a common core of phenomena in such experiences, as described both in historical accounts and recent research, but also evidence of cultural specificity. This article is a personal account of such an experience, which occurred in a postanesthetic state. A striking feature of the experience was noesis: a sense of revelation and complete understanding. I argue that while there must be a neural basis to these phenomena, it is difficult to reduce the subjective meaning of the experience purely to a brain dysfunction. Reconciling mechanism and meaning of such experiences remains a challenge for both neuroscience and philosophy.
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Woollacott M, Shumway-Cook A. Spiritual awakening and transformation in scientists and academics. Explore (NY) 2022; 19:319-329. [PMID: 36100544 DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2022.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to document both quantitatively and qualitatively the characteristics of spiritual awakenings and their transformational effects in scientists and academics who reported having experienced this phenomenon; it also aimed to explore barriers these individuals perceived to sharing their experiences with others within society. METHODS: An interview questionnaire was used to collect detailed descriptions of both the physical and metaphysical experiences of 54 scientists and academics having had a spiritually transformative experience (STE) (e.g., spontaneous energetic awakenings, awakenings occurring through near-death experiences (NDEs), and through spiritual practices). RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Participants reported the STE as a mystical experience involving feelings of expansion (including conscious awareness leaving the body), energy rising up the spine, a sense of being enveloped in light, love or part of a unified energetic field. Principle triggers for these experiences included concentrating on spiritual matters, the presence of a spiritually developed person, and intense meditation or prayer. Transformational changes in participants included increased sensory sensitivity, creativity, and changes in beliefs, including a desire to serve others, a sense of unity with all, and the immortality of the spirit. Effects on career ranged from incorporating their new worldview and spiritual insights into the way they interacted with others within their current career, to radically changing their career to focus on questions related to the fundamental nature of consciousness or to serve others from this new perspective. Among barriers to sharing experiences, participants noted their concern that they would be misunderstood or ridiculed by others.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anne Shumway-Cook
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, USA
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Chockalingam A, Bettencourt BA, Anand K, Dorairajan S, Anbuganapathi G, Srinivas S, Chockalingam V. Siddha Self-Inquiry for Flow, Bliss, and Uvagai: Mindfulness for Intuitive Lifestyle in Complex Cardiac Disease. Am J Lifestyle Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/15598276221117091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mental health disorders contribute to significant healthcare expenses. Lifestyle approaches that empower and enable patients to participate in their recovery are needed with the increasing complexity of cardiac patients. Traditional Tamil medical practice of Siddha self-inquiry meditation targets holistic health through intuitive lifestyle transformation. We describe 4 complex cardiac patients who explored Siddha based Hunger Gratitude Experience (HUGE) mindful eating and reported elevated levels of optimism and deeper experience of life as outlined by the 5000-year-old secular Siddha medical tradition. We cannot exclude the role of suggestion and placebo effect in descriptive series. However, the simultaneous improvement in physical health and emotional wellbeing along with demonstrated resilience against unforeseen adversities suggests this is Uvagai, the true essence of Siddha higher consciousness. Uvagai is extreme happiness and may be accessible universally with little formal training and targets positive psychology to improve wellbeing. While flow and bliss states are transient transcendental experiences, Uvagai may be more profound and therapeutic in CVD despite age and comorbidities. Seeking Uvagai can potentially overcome health disparities, including rural, minority, and underprivileged populations for better health. HUGE allows CVD patients to safely engage in Uvagai, experience higher consciousness and intuitively sustain lifestyle transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anand Chockalingam
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA (AC); Harry S Truman VA Medical Center, Columbia, MO, USA (AC, SD); Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MS, USA (BAB); Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA (KA); Siddha Physician, Anbu Hospital, Chennai, India (CA); Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA (SS)
| | - B. Ann Bettencourt
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA (AC); Harry S Truman VA Medical Center, Columbia, MO, USA (AC, SD); Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MS, USA (BAB); Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA (KA); Siddha Physician, Anbu Hospital, Chennai, India (CA); Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA (SS)
| | - Kavin Anand
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA (AC); Harry S Truman VA Medical Center, Columbia, MO, USA (AC, SD); Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MS, USA (BAB); Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA (KA); Siddha Physician, Anbu Hospital, Chennai, India (CA); Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA (SS)
| | - Smrita Dorairajan
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA (AC); Harry S Truman VA Medical Center, Columbia, MO, USA (AC, SD); Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MS, USA (BAB); Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA (KA); Siddha Physician, Anbu Hospital, Chennai, India (CA); Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA (SS)
| | - Govindaraju Anbuganapathi
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA (AC); Harry S Truman VA Medical Center, Columbia, MO, USA (AC, SD); Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MS, USA (BAB); Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA (KA); Siddha Physician, Anbu Hospital, Chennai, India (CA); Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA (SS)
| | - Sharan Srinivas
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA (AC); Harry S Truman VA Medical Center, Columbia, MO, USA (AC, SD); Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MS, USA (BAB); Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA (KA); Siddha Physician, Anbu Hospital, Chennai, India (CA); Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA (SS)
| | - Venkatachalam Chockalingam
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA (AC); Harry S Truman VA Medical Center, Columbia, MO, USA (AC, SD); Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MS, USA (BAB); Department of Computer Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA (KA); Siddha Physician, Anbu Hospital, Chennai, India (CA); Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA (SS)
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Maxwell RW, Katyal S. Characteristics of Kundalini-Related Sensory, Motor, and Affective Experiences During Tantric Yoga Meditation. Front Psychol 2022; 13:863091. [PMID: 35846598 PMCID: PMC9282169 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.863091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditional spiritual literature contains rich anecdotal reports of spontaneously arising experiences occurring during meditation practice, but formal investigation of such experiences is limited. Previous work has sometimes related spontaneous experiences to the Indian traditional contemplative concept of kundalini. Historically, descriptions of kundalini come out of Tantric schools of Yoga, where it has been described as a “rising energy” moving within the spinal column up to the brain. Spontaneous meditation experiences have previously been studied within Buddhist and Christian practices and within eclectic groups of contemplative practitioners. Prior explorations of kundalini have emphasized extreme experiences, sometimes having clinical consequences. We conducted a first such investigation of kundalini-related experiences within a sample of meditators from a single Tantric Yoga tradition (known as Ananda Marga) that emphasizes the role of kundalini. We developed a semi-structured questionnaire to conduct an exploratory pilot investigation of spontaneous sensory, motor and affective experiences during meditation practice. In addition to identifying the characteristics of subjective experiences, we measured quantity of meditation, supplemental practices, trait affect and trait mindfulness. We administered it to 80 volunteers at two Ananda Marga retreats. Among reported experiences, we found the highest prevalence for positive mood shifts, followed by motor and then sensory experiences. The frequency of spontaneous experiences was not related to the quantity of practiced meditation or trait measures of mindfulness and affect. Self-reports included multiple descriptions of rising sensations, sometimes being directly called kundalini. Experiences with rising sensations were complex and many included references to positive affect, including ecstatic qualities. There were also reports of spontaneous anomalous experiences. These experiences of rising sensations resemble prior clinical descriptions that were considered kundalini-related. The individuals who reported rising sensations could not be distinguished from other participants based on the incidence of experiences, quantity of meditation practice, or trait measures of mindfulness and affect. In contrast, greater amount of Tantric Yoga meditation practice was associated with greater positive affect, less negative affect and greater mindfulness. Further study of these exploratory findings and how they may be related to spiritual and well-being goals of meditation is warranted along with scientific investigation of purported kundalini phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard W. Maxwell
- Private Practitioner, Ithaca, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Richard W. Maxwell,
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Wahbeh H, Fry N, Speirn P. The Noetic Signature Inventory: Development, Exploration, and Initial Validation. Front Psychol 2022; 13:838582. [PMID: 35783759 PMCID: PMC9240696 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.838582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Noetic comes from the Greek word noēsis, meaning inner wisdom or direct knowing. Noetic experiences often transcend the perception of our five senses and are ubiquitous worldwide, although no instrument exists to evaluate noetic characteristics both within and between individuals. We developed the Noetic Signature Inventory (NSI) through an iterative qualitative and statistical process as a tool to subjectively assess noetic characteristics. Study 1 developed and evaluated a 175-item NSI using 521 self-selected research participants, resulting in a 46-item NSI with an 11-factor model solution. Study 2 examined the 11-factor solution, construct validity, and test–retest reliability, resulting in a 44-item NSI with a 12-factor model solution. Study 3 confirmed the final 44-item NSI in a diverse population. The 12-factors were: (1) Inner Knowing, (2) Embodied Sensations, (3) Visualizing to Access or Affect, (4) Inner Knowing Through Touch, (5) Healing, (6) Knowing the Future, (7) Physical Sensations from Other People, (8) Knowing Yourself, (9) Knowing Other’s Minds, (10) Apparent Communication with Non-physical Beings, (11) Knowing Through Dreams, and (12) Inner Voice. The NSI demonstrated internal consistency, convergent and divergent content validity, and test–retest reliability. The NSI can be used for the future studies to evaluate intra- and inter-individual variation of noetic experiences.
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Gandy S. Predictors and potentiators of psychedelic-occasioned mystical experiences. JOURNAL OF PSYCHEDELIC STUDIES 2022. [DOI: 10.1556/2054.2022.00198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Mystical experiences are often described as being among the most profound and meaningful events of a person’s life. Their occurrence, while a normal but uncommon phenomenon, is reliably occasioned by psychedelic substances under the appropriate conditions, although care is needed around the context of usage to help ensure safe and beneficial experiences. The occurrence of mystical experiences in psychedelic sessions is a key mediator of the sustained psychological benefits reported in both healthy and clinical populations. Certain factors including set and setting, drug dosage, trait absorption, drug type, intention and states of surrender and acceptance all predict or influence the occurrence of mystical experiences. Various additional factors may further contribute to the occurrence and intensity of mystical experiences and enhance their long-term benefits, including music, meditation and spiritual practices and nature-based settings. This review examines these factors and considers how they might be optimised to increase the chances of a mystical experience occurring, while also considering factors that are negatively associated with mystical experiences with suggestions on how these might be mitigated where applicable. Finally, potential future research avenues for furthering our knowledge of psychedelic mystical experiences and how their benefits might be enhanced is suggested. Maximising the potential for the occurrence of mystical experiences is an important aspect of the beneficial application of psychedelics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Gandy
- Synthesis Institute, Zandvoort, Netherlands
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12
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Wahbeh H, Fry N, Speirn P, Hrnjic L, Ancel E, Niebauer E. Qualitative analysis of first-person accounts of noetic experiences. F1000Res 2022; 10:497. [PMID: 36017375 PMCID: PMC9364752 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.52957.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The term “noetic” comes from the Greek word noēsis/noētikos that means inner wisdom, direct knowing, intuition, or implicit understanding. Strong cultural taboos exist about sharing these experiences. Thus, many may not feel comfortable transparently discussing or researching these topics, despite growing evidence that these experiences may be real. The study’s objective was to qualitatively evaluate first-hand accounts of noetic experiences. 521 English-speaking adults from around the world completed an online survey that collected demographic data and four open-ended questions about noetic experiences. Thematic analysis was used to characterize the data. The ten most used codes were expressing to or sharing with others, impacting decision-making, intuition/”just knowing,” meditation/hypnosis, inner visions, setting intentions/getting into the “state,” healing others, writing for self, and inner voice. There were five main themes identified: 1. Ways of Engagement; 2. Ways of Knowing; 3. Types of Information; 4. Ways of Affecting; and 5. Ways of Expressing. Subthemes. Future research will include investigating the nuances of these themes and also establishing standardized methods for evaluating them. This would also then inform curricula and therapies to support people in these experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helané Wahbeh
- Research, Institute of Noetic Sciences, Petaluma, CA, 94928, USA
- Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Nina Fry
- Research, Institute of Noetic Sciences, Petaluma, CA, 94928, USA
| | - Paolo Speirn
- Research, Institute of Noetic Sciences, Petaluma, CA, 94928, USA
| | - Lutvija Hrnjic
- Research, Institute of Noetic Sciences, Petaluma, CA, 94928, USA
| | - Emma Ancel
- Research, Institute of Noetic Sciences, Petaluma, CA, 94928, USA
| | - Erica Niebauer
- Research, Institute of Noetic Sciences, Petaluma, CA, 94928, USA
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