Subjective states of mind

                        Subjective states of mind

   By Jimmy Henderson 

(Hons Philosophy) (MA psychology)

‘The intuitive mind is a sacred gift and the rational mind is a faithful servant. We have created a society that honours the servant and has forgotten the gift.’

Albert Einstein

The existence of highly subjective and suggestive states of mind has been proven by neurological research, especially into hypnosis and other forms of self-hypnosis. Science has also revealed that human beings can present an entire continuum of brainwave patterns extending from deep sleep to a highly active pattern characteristic of complex reasoning. However, increased brainwave activity is not always directly linked to a higher awareness. For instance, a low Alpha brainwave frequency of 8-12 cycles per second represents a highly subjective or contemplative state of mind in which the rational thinking processes are subdued and one is easily able to access the unconscious mind.

   This state is ideal for the level of mindfulness required for introspection, expanded thought and even intuition, and provides the foundation for any deeper exploration of the self by creating a ‘mental space’ for receiving and interpreting cues, impressions, images and promptings from the unconscious. This mental space or inner visual field is created simply by closing one’s eyes, quieting the mind and imagining a blank screen at the height of the forehead and about 60 cm in front. These quieting exercises were fully explained in my earlier publication Multi-Dimensional Thinking (2007).

   The well-known psychiatrist Milton Erickson maintained that subjective or trancelike states were actually quite a common, everyday occurrence, but we are simply not normally aware of them. For instance, when driving long distances, being half-asleep or relaxing, reading, listening to music or even when consuming alcohol, it is quite possible to lose oneself in the activity and enter a semi-trance state which opens the unconscious mind to suggestion. In fact, this phenomenon forms the basis of many techniques of conscious mind-development.

Jimmy Henderson is a philosopher, metaphysican and cognitive specialist who integrates science, psychology, philopsophy, metaphysics and spirituality into a co-ordinated whole. His books and e-books can be found on Amazon.com and through his website www.jimmyhendersonbooks.com