Mystical experience occasioned by non-medicinal embodied therapy And integration process for mental well-Being

A program called Body Logic, which uses High Intensity Embodied Stimulation (HIES) over 10–12 sessions, can produce mystical experiences similar to those induced by psilocybin. Among 56 participants who completed the program, 51% reported a strong or extreme mystical experience, and another 31% reported a moderate one, as measured by the Mystical Experience Questionnaire. The findings suggest that body-focused, non-drug methods may offer an alternative pathway to the mystical states linked to improved mental health.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Expansion of psychoactive hallucinogens in mental health continues to be a major trend. Several psychoactive molecules including psilocybin and MDMA continue to move through the FDA approval process with clinical trials.1 In the meantime, off-label ketamine medically supervised programs and indigenous plant ceremonies continue to expand.2,3 This study explores the potential benefits of High Intensity Embodied Stimulation (HIES) which is part of the Body Logic Program (10–12 sessions), and its ability to mimic psychoactive states of mind.4 The study employs a questionnaire of mystical experience, developed at Johns Hopkins, the Mystical Experience Questionnaire (MEQ), that assesses mystical experiences in seven domains. Fifty-six participants who finished the Body Logic Program, completed the questionnaire. Comparative data from Psilocybin participants, post psilocybin, as well as a placebo group (non-psilocybin) provide reference data.5,6 Results show that 51% of HIES participants report a strong or extreme mystical experience. Another 31% of HIES participants report a moderate strength of mystical experience. Results suggest that Body Logic Program can provide an efficacious system for mystical experience and body-mind integration.