The human mind is a complex and fascinating entity capable of extraordinary experiences. Throughout history there have been intriguing examples of individuals entering trance states through the power of words alone.
Shedding light on the profound impact that words can have on altering consciousness and transcending ordinary states of awareness… let’s explore a few of the Ancient Civilizations and uncover some of the oldest recorded instances of trance states induced (primarily) by verbal suggestions.
Ancient Shamanic Rituals
In various indigenous cultures, such as those found in Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas… and around the world, trance states induced by words have been fundamental to many cultures since pre Shamanic and Animistic times.
Shamanic Practitioners would utilize specific chants, incantations and rhythmic patterns of speech to induce altered states of consciousness in themselves and others. These vocal sounds and words created a gateway into accessing the spirit realm… to facilitate healing, divination, spiritual transformation and more.
Vedic Tradition
In ancient Indian Vedic Tradition there are sacred texts known as the Vedas, containing hymns and mantras that were chanted during rituals. These rhythmic chants served dual functions, they carried profound meaning and a focus for the attention, as well as having the power, in and of themselves, to induce trance states.
The repetition of specific sounds and words has a transformative effect neurophysiology* guiding a person into deep meditative states… of expanded levels of awareness.
*Elevating them into altered states of consciousness.
Tibetan Buddhist Chants
Tibetan Buddhist chants are more than just beautiful music. They are mantras, sacred syllables and phrases repeated in meditation.
Again the power lies in BOTH the meaning and in the sound itself. Through focused repetition, the vibrations influence the body, mind and spirit… creating a pathway to deeper awareness.
Each mantra carries a specific meaning and purpose… maybe to cultivate compassion, wisdom, or other positive qualities. In “Om Mani Padme Hum” each syllable holds a specific meaning…
Om: Represents the Universe or the ultimate reality
Mani: Symbolizes compassion and the methods or practices to achieve enlightenment
Padme: Represents wisdom
Hum: Represents the indivisible union of method and wisdom, leading to enlightenment
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Ancient Greek Chants & Hymns
In Ancient Greece they used rhythmic chants and hymns… the repetition and emotional intensity evoking Altered States of Consciousness.
At Sleep Temples they used vocal suggestion, but were part of a much larger experience for altering states.
Throughout history ‘Oracles‘ have played a pivotal role in Ancient Greece and other Ancient Civilizations including Egypt and Mesopotamia. Through the spoken word, whilst in-trance themselves, the Oracle would speak prophetic messages and share insights, often inducing trance states in their audience through the persuasive power of their speech… much like everyday hypnosis.
The Power of Words
The ability to induce Altered States of Consciousness through spoken language has been an integral part of the ‘human experience’ for a very, very long time.
Language, consciousness and spiritual transformation… the transformative potential of words as well as their capacity to assist others to transcend ordinary states of awareness… opening new ‘doors’ to profound insights… and expanded perceptions of reality.
Induce Trance States in yourself (self-healing) and with others, using the power of words and the latest hypnotic and NLP techniques. Find Out about becoming a Hypnotic Practitioner and learn the Art & Science of Hypnosis.
