A recent study from the University of Cambridge has identified that mindfulness training can induce altered states of consciousness such as disembodiment and unity, which are not always positive. While the popularity of mindfulness programs has grown, especially as a stress reduction tool, the study underscores the importance of open communication between participants and instructors about the potential side effects. Experiences during mindfulness can vary widely, from pleasant to unsettling, and participants should be prepared to discuss these with instructors or healthcare professionals if they cause concern.
Mindfulness training may cause altered states of consciousness, including disembodiment and unity, according to a University of Cambridge study. While often positive, these experiences can sometimes be unsettling. Awareness and open communication about these potential side effects are essential for both teachers and students.
A new study from the University of Cambridge suggests that participants in mindfulness training may undergo altered states of consciousness, experiencing sensations of disembodiment and unity.
The team says that while these experiences can be very positive, that is not always the case. Mindfulness teachers and students need to be aware that they can be a side-effect of training, and students should feel empowered to share their experiences with their teacher or doctor if they have any concerns.
Mindfulness-based programs have become very popular in recent years. According to recent surveys, 15% of adults in the UK have learned some form of mindfulness. They are often practiced as a way of reducing stress or coping with depression and anxiety. There is anecdotal evidence that practicing mindfulness can lead to alterations of the senses, self, and body boundaries, some even similar to those induced by psychotropic drugs.
Study on Mindfulness and Stress
From September 2015 to January 2016, the University of Cambridge conducted a randomized controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of mindfulness training as a way of coping with the stress of examinations and found that it can help support students at risk of mental health problems.
Dr. Julieta Galante from the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Cambridge, who led the trial, said: “There’s been anecdotal evidence that people who practice mindfulness experience changes in how they perceive themselves and the world around them, but it’s difficult to know whether these experiences are a result of mindfulness practice or whether people who are more prone to such experiences are also more likely to practice mindfulness.
“Because we’d been running a randomized trial of mindfulness practice with several hundred students at Cambridge, we realized this offered us an opportunity to explore this question further.”
The team behind the trial followed up with participants a year later to investigate whether they had experienced any of the altered states of consciousness being reported anecdotally. The results are published in the journal DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0305928
The research was supported by the University of Cambridge Vice-Chancellor’s Endowment Fund, the University Counselling Service, and the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Applied Research Collaboration East of England programme.
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