Sometimes maybe we must lose our mind in order to change our mind. Perhaps this is why we naturally seek altered states because we naturally seek healing. It is in altered states of consciousness that healing and transformation may occur.

Altered states of consciousness involve moving from logical, rational, cognitive thinking to a instinctual, creative, imaginative, and intuitive receiving. In an altered state of consciousness we may access and dwell in the unconscious or the collective realms. Altered states of consciousness are induced by things like chanting, drumming, dancing, running, psychedelic plants, the nighttime dreaming, giving birth and dying.

We initiate altered states when we activate the limbic brain- and we do this by rhythmical activity. When we go into an altered state, we are able to to effectively change a subconscious imprint or unconscious belief.

Altered states may be needed in healing because the conscious mind often does not have the kind of power needed to change things, as behavior is typically driven by the unconscious mind. When we push the small, limited and fixed conscious mind out of the way, even briefly, we create room for the hidden or masked to take center stage. We make room for something grander, all-encompassing, expansive, mystical and inclusive.

Changing our mind may not always be easy, but it can be a healing step. Thoughts may not be serving our general well being, however, they have become rigid, and well established. In therapy we aim to loosen and shaken them a little bit, unleashing their hold, and freeing the mind to romp and play in a more beautiful and happy place.

Altered states of consciousness play a major role in our original medicine. Fortunately one can still enter a Lakota prayer lodge, visit a Peruvian shaman, or participate in ecstatic kirtan. We can also enter altered states using mind body therapies. When the unconscious surfaces and enters into the territory of consciousness, then we may encounter real metamorphosis and profound healing.