One of the most frequent questions before a session is: “Will I experience an altered state of consciousness?”. The answer is a definite yes. Understanding how perception changes during deep bodywork helps reduce anxiety and allows you to open up to the experience. In the context of somatic practices, an altered state of consciousness is not an anomaly, but a natural result of the nervous system switching its operating modes.
Defining ASC Through the Lens of Psychology
According to standard definitions, an altered state of consciousness is a qualitative shift in psychological functioning that differs from an individual’s usual norms. This state is recognized either by the person themselves or by those around them. Short-term changes of this type are completely normal for a healthy person and are part of our everyday biological rhythms.
Natural Forms of Altered States in Daily Life
It is important to realize that we are already familiar with many forms of ASC. The most vital example for everyone is sleep. Other everyday examples include daydreaming, trance states during monotonous tasks, or even moments of religious ecstasy. Somatic work simply creates the conditions to enter one of these natural phases, but with a deeper focus on internal bodily sensations.
Everyday Mode: The Dominance of the Sympathetic System
In our daily lives, we usually stay in a state of high activity. We focus on problems, set goals, and rush to get things done. The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for this “fight or flight” mode. In this state, consciousness is narrowed toward task completion, and the internal dialogue runs at maximum speed. This is our “normal” state, which, however, often leads to chronic exhaustion.
Switching to the Parasympathetic Mode
When we temporarily cease all unnecessary hustle during a session, the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system kicks in. This causes a feeling of slowing down and the cessation of the internal dialogue in the mind. A person often feels a sense of emptiness in the body and a profound inner peace. This sharp contrast with usual activity is the primary sign of entering an altered state of consciousness.
The State of "Strong Parasympathetic Relaxation"
After a session, a specific type of ASC arises, known as a state of “strong parasympathetic relaxation.” This is a state where everything feels “slow and smooth.” Consciousness becomes expanded, and the body is perceived as a single flow of sensations. This differs greatly from the usual state of readiness for action, meeting all the scientific criteria for an altered state.
The Phenomenon of "Teleporting to Bed"
A typical sign of deep parasympathetic immersion is the sudden, intense desire to be in a warm bed. This is a signal from the nervous system that it has moved into a mode of recovery and integration. In this moment, consciousness refuses any analytical work, focusing only on basic comfort and safety. This shift marks the successful transition away from the “active” self.
Changes in the Perception of Time and Space
In an altered state of consciousness, time is often perceived non-linearly. A one-hour session might feel like a brief moment or, conversely, an entire lifetime. The space of the room may feel different, and the boundaries of one’s own body might seem to dissolve. This happens because the brain switches from processing external signals to intensive monitoring of internal somatic processes.
Deep Slowing and Internal Silence
One of the most valuable effects of this state is the stopping of the internal critic. In a normal state, we constantly judge ourselves, but during an altered state of consciousness, this voice tends to disappear. A state of “here and now” presence emerges, where every touch becomes total. This allows for a deep neurological recalibration of the system without the interference of the logical mind.
Post-Effects: Integration and Clarity
The effects after a session can last from several hours to several days. Many women report an unusual clarity of thought and emotional stability. Because the body has “discharged” its tension, consciousness returns to its normal state feeling refreshed. This is not just relaxation; it is a qualitative improvement in psychological functioning that was mentioned at the beginning of this guide.
Conclusion: A Safe Immersion into Calm
Entering an altered state of consciousness during and after somatic practice is a safe, biological process. It is a journey from tense activity to healing peace. Trusting this state allows you to gain the maximum benefit from a session, giving the body the opportunity for self-renewal at the deepest neural level. This “slow and smooth” state is the gateway to true somatic recovery.
