On Physiological Bases of States of Expanded Consciousness

Altered states of consciousness provide valuable insights essential for a better understanding of the phenomenon of consciousness. Improved understanding of physiological correlates of states with expanded consciousness may allow possible use of biofeedback as a tool for achieving of those states at will. As a consequence, this approach may facilitate improvement of efficiency, creativity, and spiritual growth. This chapter presents a survey of relevant physiological correlates and present examples of two specific techniques: slow yogic breathing and chanting. We hypothesize that stabilization of physiological rhythms, such as breathing, heart rate variability, or blood pressure variability, creates favorable conditions in which states of expanded consciousness may arise.