Those "Altered States of Consciousness" - Use Them, Don't Abuse Them

 


Call it the "pause" state of being. In the Tarot it is represented by the Four of Swords. As you recall, in that 78-card deck swords represent cognitive processing. 

What is paused is what is standard and expected in states of consciousness. The result is usually called "altered states of consciouness." In her best-selling book "Phenomenon," Sylvia Brown explains:

"An alterd state of consciousness is simply a state in which the mind conceives, perceives and processes information in a different way that it normally does."

What are examples of that? 

There are plenty, including daydreaming; dreams when sleeping and sleeping itself, of course, is an altered state; trances as in creativity; meditation;  hypnosis; clairvoyance; clairaudience; clairsentience; astral travel; being in the zone as in athletics; and the effects of ingestion of alcohol, some prescription drugs and illegal substances. 

Although those in high-charging professions such as practicing law at elite firms such as Kirkland & Ellis and Paul, Weiss might perceive "doing an all-nighter" as a symbol of dedication, they might be more effective if they caught some shut-eye. Research documents the value of that altered state of consciousness - sleep, even in the form of naps - in making human beings more cognitively on-the-ball. That includes problem-solving. 

In addition, in some circles daydreaming might be interpreted as a signal for lack of focus on a task. In contrast, research also salutes that state as useful in problem-solving. 

As an author I recognize that I am "in the zone," doing inspired work when I enter into a creative trance. 

One clear reason why altered states of consciousness can develop a negative reputation is that they can be an indulgence. Because they "feel" so wonderfully different human beings can wind up taking refuge in them. Those who dislike their jobs can default into daydreaming when they should be accomplishing tasks. More to the point are the addictions to altered states of substance abusers. The release of sleep into another realm can encourage excessive slumber.

How can we seek balance? Nature usually clues us in that we need to pause. 

One of my clients confided that they were being "too good" in attending to responsiblilities. It was a car accident which alerted them that they were not giving themselves enough time to recharge their inner life. Many spiritual leaders such as psychologist Carl Jung declare that what takes place in our external life directly reflects what is going on inside us. When we are out-of-balance that will manifest itself in what is referred to as "real life." Take the time to pause.

Jane Genova * Tarot Card Reader * Intuitive Coach * Medium.

Opening Yourself to Inner Peace, Self-Love and New Success

Deep Listening and Compassion.

For an appointment, please contact janegenova374@gmail.com or text/phone 203-468-8579.


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