What distinguishes shallow vs deep altered states?

Why This Matters

This distinction reflects the degree of neurological disruption in different brain networks. Shallow states typically affect attention and sensory processing while preserving executive function, because cortical activity remains largely intact. Deep states result from more extensive changes in thalamic-cortical loops and default mode network activity, which leads to fundamental alterations in self-perception and reality processing. Understanding these differences helps map the spectrum of human consciousness and its underlying neural mechanisms.

Where This Changes

The boundary shifts based on individual neurochemistry, prior experience, and the specific induction method used. Some people reach deep states through techniques that produce only shallow changes in others.

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