Understanding individual differences in non-ordinary state of consciousness: Relationship between phenomenological experiences and autonomic nervous system

IF 5.3 1区心理学 Q1 PSYCHOLOGY, CLINICAL

International Journal of Clinical and Health Psychology Pub Date : 2025-01-01 DOI:10.1016/j.ijchp.2025.100552

Victor Oswald , Karim Jerbi , Corine Sombrun , Annen Jitka , Charlotte Martial , Olivia Gosseries , Audrey Vanhaudenhuyse

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Non-ordinary states of consciousness offer a unique opportunity to explore the interplay between phenomenological experiences and physiological processes. This study investigated individual differences in phenomenological and autonomic nervous system changes between a resting state condition and a non-ordinary state of consciousness (auto-induced cognitive trance, AICT). Specifically, it examined the relationship between self-reported experiences (e.g., absorption, visual representations) and heart rate variability (HRV).

Twenty-seven participants underwent electrocardiography recordings and completed self-report questionnaires during rest and AICT. A machine learning framework distinguished the rest and AICT states based on self-reported measures and HRV metrics. A linear mixed-effects model assessed inter-individual differences in HRV and self-reported phenomenology between the two states. Finally, the relationship between relative change in HRV and self-reported experiences was explored.

Results showed changes in self-reported phenomenology (accuracy=86 %; p<.001) and HRV (accuracy=73 %; p<.001) characterizing the AICT state compared to rest. The baseline level in phenomenology or HRV was associated with change amplitude during AICT. Moreover, relative change in HRV was associated with change in phenomenology.

The findings suggest that inter-individual differences at rest revealed a functional mechanism between phenomenology and the autonomic nervous system during non-ordinary states of consciousness, offering a novel perspective on how physiological mechanisms shape subjective experiences.

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来源期刊

International Journal of Clinical and Health Psychology PSYCHOLOGY, CLINICAL-

CiteScore

10.70

自引率

5.70%

发文量

审稿时长

33 days

期刊介绍： The International Journal of Clinical and Health Psychology is dedicated to publishing manuscripts with a strong emphasis on both basic and applied research, encompassing experimental, clinical, and theoretical contributions that advance the fields of Clinical and Health Psychology. With a focus on four core domains—clinical psychology and psychotherapy, psychopathology, health psychology, and clinical neurosciences—the IJCHP seeks to provide a comprehensive platform for scholarly discourse and innovation. The journal accepts Original Articles (empirical studies) and Review Articles. Manuscripts submitted to IJCHP should be original and not previously published or under consideration elsewhere. All signing authors must unanimously agree on the submitted version of the manuscript. By submitting their work, authors agree to transfer their copyrights to the Journal for the duration of the editorial process.