An informal conversation with consciousness scientist Dr. Tarik Bel-Bahar about Altered States & The Nature of Consciousness [episode 31]

This week we are speaking with Dr. Tarik Bel-Bahar from the Center for Consciousness Science at the University of Michigan Medical School. At the Center they are studying consciousness via looking at anesthesia, altered states, near death experiences, psychedelics, kundalini yoga and other experiences that affect awareness. They are asking questions such as:

What is the nature of consciousness? How does the brain maintain a coherent sense of self over time?

We cover some broad strokes about consciousness science for the layperson, and we also talk about:

  • The pillars of consciousness science
  • The impact of psychedelic experiences and altered states of consciousness on mental health
  • Effects of kundalini yoga on physical health - a study in progress
  • Psychological and brain changes during shamanic journeying
  • The differences between the academic and more new age views of consciousness

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