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Consciousness, Spirituality & Transpersonal Psychology

ISSN 2634-2553

6 papers in the library · 5 citations · publishing 2020-2024

Papers

lived experience and transformational potential of 5 Rhythms dancing meditation

Consciousness, Spirituality & Transpersonal Psychology August 18, 2021 Zsofia Maurer 3 citations

A qualitative study explored the lived experience of 5 Rhythms, a dancing meditation practice. Through intuitive inquiry and interviews with nine practitioners, eight core themes emerged. The findings suggest that processes including embodiment, interconnection with others, self and the world, mindful presence, self-compassion, freedom, spirituality, creativity, and the interplay of opposing forces such as surrender and control facilitate and accompany psycho-spiritual transformation in this practice.

Psychedelic integration and transformation

Consciousness, Spirituality & Transpersonal Psychology December 22, 2023 Jorge Branco 1 citation

People who have had psychedelic experiences integrate them into daily life through two key pillars: regular practices that address physical, mental, emotional, interpersonal, and spiritual domains, and a support system of coaches, therapists, mentors, or guides. Nine participants described developing these practices and relying on such support to merge their experiences with everyday living, aiming to reduce distress and live more fully. As non-clinical psychedelic use rises and psychedelic-assisted therapy becomes more accepted, having diverse integral practices and a transpersonal support network is critical for maximizing benefits and minimizing harm.

Altered states of consciousness within therapeutic modalities - exploring commonalities of experience

Consciousness, Spirituality & Transpersonal Psychology December 20, 2022 David Furlong 1 citation

Altered states of consciousness (ASC) involve deviations from normal psychological functioning, induced through meditation, psychoactive substances, or therapeutic hypnosis. This qualitative Grounded Theory pilot study, based on twelve interviews with trainers, practitioners, and clients from Hypnotherapy, Past-life Regression, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and Soul-Centred Healing, explored commonalities across these modalities. Participants consistently reported a conviction in a transpersonal element of human consciousness that transcends physical life, viewing their ASC experiences as part of a journey toward higher states of consciousness. The research also highlighted the multiplicity of inner world elements, including sub-personalities, ego-states, or parts.

Exploration of attitudes towards the mystical experience in the context of psychedelic assisted psychotherapy amongst psychiatry trainees based in the West of Scotland

Consciousness, Spirituality & Transpersonal Psychology October 31, 2024 Cassie Maguire

Psychiatry trainees in the West of Scotland expressed openness to psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy and to the therapeutic potential of the mystical experience, but also showed a biomedical focus consistent with the prevailing medical model. Through interviews with five core trainees, four themes emerged: general knowledge about mystical experiences, openness to psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, implications for psychiatry, and concerns. Trainees recognized the need for training in its delivery. As psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy gains credibility, a holistic approach integrating modern psychiatry with transpersonal aspects may be valuable.

Psychotherapists’ altered states of consciousness

Consciousness, Spirituality & Transpersonal Psychology October 15, 2020 Colin Agnew

An intense, powerful experience during therapy can dramatically shift a therapist's consciousness and deepen the healing potential of the session. Six counselors and psychotherapists—three students and three qualified practitioners—described such unusual events. The key was a mutual openness between therapist and client, which allowed these profound states to arise. For every practitioner, the experience also spurred their own professional development.