Altered States of Consciousness

 

 My first real encounter with the idea of altered states of consciousness, was sometime in high school, when one of my teachers briefly mentioned it in connection with dreams, hypnosis, drug use, and governmental LSD experiments. Why my American history teacher would even bring it up is beyond me, but…. That brief mention of it intrigued me.

There are many ways to reach altered states of consciousness and there are different types of altered states.

The different types of altered states can also be referred to as different brain wave frequencies. These frequencies are measured in cycles per seconds or Hertz.

There are five categories: Gamma, Beta, Alpha, Theta, and Delta.

Gamma—This is the most recently discovered frequency and there are some researchers who do not distinguish this state from Beta. There is little known about this state of consciousness, but it is thought to be associated with high levels of information processing and bursts of insight. This frequency cycles at 30-100Hz.

Beta—This is the frequency associated with the normal waking state. During the course of the day we experience all frequencies with the predominance being Beta. This frequency cycles at 12-30Hz.

Alpha—This frequency is associated with and most commonly found during relaxation, meditation, day dreaming, and other visualization techniques. This frequency cycles at 7.5-12Hz.

Theta—Associated with dreams and creativity (sometimes referred to as being in the zone or flow) this is the state of consciousness or activity level where psychic ability is tapped and utilized. This is most often experienced during deep meditation and light sleep (REM). There are many ways to reach this vibrational level, deep meditation, hypnosis, trance and ecstasy practices, to include various drug induced states. This frequency cycles at 4-7.5Hz. 

Delta- This is the frequency associated with deep sleep. This is the frequency that Lucid dreaming, astral projection, dream walking, or out of body experiences occurs. This is the slowest known frequency which cycles at .5- 4Hz. 

The border between Alpha and Theta (7-8Hz) seems to be the frequency that is most effective for visualization, tapping the creative energies of your mind, programming the mind and conscious manifestation. In this state you find you are still conscious of your surroundings and yet your body is in a deeply relaxed state.

There are many practices to reach this border area, and most of them work relatively well. I have used many of the different techniques practiced by the different magickal traditions, to reach this state. I’ve found the approach that works the best for me is rhythmic drumming/ rattling or music selections that have a repetitive rhythmic quality similar to the human heart beat. Though this isn’t the only technique I use, it is the one I utilize when working with others. I will also incorporate dancing chanting or other rhythmic movements when working in groups.

When working in altered states on my own I will often use the rhythmic music, but have also found sleep deprivation, exhaustion, breath control techniques and herbal smokes or teas can greatly enhance the experience.

Have a Wicked Good Day!

Molly