In recent years, researchers have begun to investigate shamanistic practices using scientific methods, particularly within neuroscience. This approach sheds new light on the altered states of consciousness that arise during shamanistic rituals and their potential effects on the brain and body.
Neuroscientific studies
Brain activity during trance
Neuroscientific studies have shown that brain activity changes significantly during shamanistic trance states. Researchers have observed reduced activity in the brain's default mode network, which is associated with self-reflection and daydreaming. This may explain the sense of "ego dissolution" that many report during shamanistic experiences. A study by Hove et al. found increased activity in central regions of the default mode network and control-related networks during the shamanistic state, as well as increased functional connectivity between these regions1.
Changes in neurotransmitters
Studies have also revealed changes in the levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine during shamanistic rituals. These changes may contribute to the intense emotional and perceptual experiences that are often reported1.
EEG findings
Research on electroencephalographic (EEG) activity during shamanistic states of consciousness has shown increased activity in low (13-20 Hz) and high (21-50 Hz) beta frequencies, as well as an anterior-posterior shift in power during the transition from a normal to a trance state. A more recent study by Flor-Henry et al. observed increased gamma activity during drumming in shamanistic practitioners, which correlated positively with elementary visual changes.
Psychological effects
Stress reduction and wellbeing
Research suggests that shamanistic practices can have positive effects on mental health. Participants in studies have reported reduced stress, increased wellbeing and improved quality of life after taking part in shamanistic rituals2.
Treatment of mental disorders
Some studies are investigating the potential of shamanistic techniques in the treatment of mental disorders such as depression and anxiety. Preliminary results are promising, but more research is needed to establish the effectiveness and safety of such approaches2.
Physiological responses
The immune system
Research has shown that shamanistic practices can affect the immune system. Studies have observed changes in immune markers in participants in shamanistic rituals, suggesting a potential connection between these practices and physical health.
Pain relief
Some studies have examined the effect of shamanistic practices on the experience of pain. Results suggest that these techniques can contribute to pain relief, possibly through changes in the brain's processing of pain signals3.
Comparison with psychedelic states
An interesting study compared shamanistic trance states with psychedelic experiences. The researchers found that shamanistic practitioners experienced significant changes in several domains of altered states of consciousness, with scores comparable to or exceeding those reported by healthy volunteers under the influence of psychedelics1. This suggests that shamanistic practices can induce profound changes in consciousness similar to those achieved through psychedelic substances.
Challenges and future perspectives
Methodological challenges
Studying shamanistic practices scientifically presents several challenges. It is difficult to control for placebo effects and to standardise rituals that are often highly individualised and culturally specific2. Moreover, it can be challenging to distinguish between the effects of the practice itself and the effects of expectations or cultural context.
Interdisciplinary approach
Future research will likely require an interdisciplinary approach that combines neuroscience, psychology, anthropology and other disciplines in order to gain a holistic understanding of shamanistic practices4. A neuroanthropological approach, which integrates brain function with cultural practices and beliefs, may be particularly valuable in this context3.
Ethical considerations
Researchers must be mindful of the ethical implications of studying traditional practices scientifically. It is important to respect cultural traditions and avoid reducing complex spiritual practices to purely physiological phenomena5. Collaboration with shamanistic practitioners and local communities is crucial to ensure that research is carried out in an ethical and culturally sensitive manner.
Potential clinical applications
As research on shamanistic practices develops, it may open up opportunities for new therapeutic approaches within mental health and wellbeing. For example, insights from studies of shamanistic trance states could potentially inform the development of new treatment methods for conditions such as depression, anxiety or addiction2.
Integration with modern medicine
A future challenge and opportunity lies in exploring how shamanistic practices can be integrated with modern medicine in a safe and effective manner. This may involve developing protocols to incorporate elements of shamanistic techniques into conventional treatment regimens, or investigating how shamanistic practices can complement existing therapies5.
Scientific research on shamanistic practices is still at an early stage, but the results so far are fascinating. They give us new insights into how these ancient techniques can affect the brain and body, and open up exciting possibilities within both basic research and clinical applications.
Studies have shown that shamanistic trance states are associated with specific patterns of brain activity, including changes in the default mode network and increased activity in beta and gamma frequencies. These neural correlates may help explain the intense experiences and potential therapeutic effects of shamanistic practices.
Comparisons with psychedelic states have revealed interesting similarities, suggesting that shamanistic techniques can induce profound changes in consciousness without the use of pharmacological agents. This opens up exciting possibilities within consciousness research and potentially new therapeutic approaches.
At the same time, it is important to maintain a balance between scientific investigation and respect for the cultural and spiritual aspects of shamanism. An interdisciplinary approach, integrating neuroscience, psychology and anthropology, is necessary in order to gain a complete understanding of these complex practices34.
Future research should focus on overcoming methodological challenges, exploring potential clinical applications, and investigating how shamanistic practices can be integrated with modern medicine in an ethical and effective manner. With continued scientific exploration, we may be able to uncover new insights into consciousness, health and human potential that lie hidden in these ancient traditions.
Sources
Hove, M. J., Stelzer, J., Nierhaus, T., Thiel, S. D., Gundlach, C., Margulies, D. S., ... & Merker, B. (2016). Brain network reconfiguration and perceptual decoupling during an absorptive state of consciousness. Cerebral Cortex, 26(7), 3116-3124.
Flor-Henry, P., Shapiro, Y., & Sombrun, C. (2017). Brain changes during a shamanic trance: Altered modes of consciousness, hemispheric laterality, and systemic psychobiology. Cogent Psychology, 4(1), 1313522.
Kjellgren, A., Eriksson, A., & Norlander, T. (2009). Experiences of encounters with ayahuasca—"the vine of the soul". Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, 41(4), 309-315.
Winkelman, M. (2013). Shamanism and psychedelics: A biogenetic structuralist paradigm of ecopsychology. European Journal of Ecopsychology, 4, 90-115.
Vaitl, D., Birbaumer, N., Gruzelier, J., Jamieson, G. A., Kotchoubey, B., Kübler, A., ... & Weiss, T. (2005). Psychobiology of altered states of consciousness. Psychological Bulletin, 131(1), 98-127.
Frecska, E., Bokor, P., & Winkelman, M. (2016). The therapeutic potentials of ayahuasca: Possible effects against various diseases of civilization. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 7, 35.
Krippner, S. (2000). The epistemology and technologies of shamanic states of consciousness. Journal of Consciousness Studies, 7(11-12), 93-118.
Winkelman, M. (2010). Shamanism: A biopsychosocial paradigm of consciousness and healing. ABC-CLIO.
Rocha, K., Pérez, K., Rodríguez-Sánchez, M., Bouso, J. C., & Palhano-Fontes, F. (2021). Therapeutic potential of ayahuasca in grief: a prospective, observational study. Psychopharmacology, 238(5), 1219-1233.
Fotiou, E. (2012). Working with "La Medicina": Elements of healing in contemporary ayahuasca rituals. Anthropology of Consciousness, 23(1), 6-27.
