Trance State

Broadly defined, a trance is a state of altered consciousness. The different types of trances that we may go into, their varying durations and the effects that such altered states of consciousness have on us, are vast. The effects of trance are studied scientifically, and a lot is unknown about how such states of consciousness effect the way we behave. In hypnosis, we know that when a person is in a deeply relaxed state, typically of a theta wavelength, they’re more vulnerable to suggestion due to their critical mind being relaxed.

An individual in a deep trance state, depicted by a serene and focused expression, in a dimly lit, peaceful environment.

Wavelengths are a legitimate field of scientific study within psychology and neurophysiology and consist of different altered states of consciousness. Wavelengths can be divided into the Gamma, Beta, Alpha, Theta and Delta states. The effects of each state are as follows -

Gamma state - The most active state of mind. Scientifically speaking, a person has an average brain wave frequency of 40 cycles per second (40hz). This is a state of the highest alertness, and has its uses in sensory awareness which shall be explained in future posts. A person cannot be in a trance whilst they are in this state as their brain is by far too active.

Visualization of brain waves in various states of consciousness, with gamma state having the highest frequency waves.

Beta state - The beta state is usually the state our mind is in most of the time when we are awake. It is associated with deep concentration, focus and analytical thinking.

Alpha state - The alpha state represents a day dreamy sort of state where we are relaxed and calm. This is a desirable state to be in when awake as it allows us to be relaxed yet still alert enough to be aware of our surroundings.

Theta/Delta State - The theta and delta states are the desired states that we wish to send someone into when hypnotizing them. These states typically have a range of 2-8hz. When a theta state is reached, a person is typically in a state of trance and lacks the usual critical thinking capabilities that they’d normally exhibit. When in a delta state, the person’s subconscious mind effectively takes over and they become highly receptive to suggestion. Whilst these states normally occur only through sleep and deep relaxation, it is possible to trigger them quite suddenly through the use of hypnosis.

So to sum up, a state of trance is typically a state when someone is in the theta/delta wavelength. When in a trance, a persons subconscious mind is more receptive to suggestion and their critical mind is more relaxed. It is important you understand this concept as later we will be seeing how suggestion when in a state of trance can lead people to do things that they’re unaware of.