The neurobiology of altered states of consciousness induced by drumming and other rhythmic sound patterns.

Rhythmic sounds such as drumming, binaural beats, and mantra can induce altered states of consciousness characterized by absorption and relaxation. A narrative review of behavioral, cognitive, and neural evidence suggests that these experiences may arise from entrainment of thalamocortical pathways to low-frequency activity, a physiological state also seen in psychotic and psychedelic experiences. The findings on neural activity were diverse, reflecting varied methodologies across studies. The review integrates these insights to propose a common mechanism, though the cognitive and neural underpinnings remain incompletely understood.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Humans have long sought to alter their mental states through various cultural practices, with rhythmic sounds emerging as a prominent and enduring method. However, altered states of consciousness induced by rhythmic auditory stimulation have not been comprehensively addressed in academic research, and the associated cognitive and neural underpinnings remain enigmatic. This narrative review synthesizes the behavioral, cognitive, and neural correlates underlying nonordinary experiences elicited by rhythmic sounds. The evidence gathered aligns with the notion that being exposed to these sounds facilitates a state of absorption and relaxation. The findings on the neural activity were diverse, reflecting the use of various methodologies in the reviewed studies. We discussed that altered states induced by rhythmic sounds may be explained by a mechanism involving the entrainment of thalamocortical pathways to low-frequency activity-a physiological state that also characterizes psychotic and psychedelic experiences. This proposal integrates insights from diverse findings, which reflect the variability in methodologies used to address these phenomena.