From the attenuation of self-boundaries to inner peace: how nonordinary states of consciousness modulates self-experience and subjective well-being.

Nonordinary states of consciousness induced by mind-body practices are increasingly studied for their potential to support self-transcendence and psychological well-being. According to the Self-centered/Selflessness Happiness Model (SSHM), sustained well-being may arise from a shift away from self-centered mental processes toward a more decentered, and interconnected sense of self. This study explored how a volitional altered state of consciousness (auto-induced cognitive trance-AICT) impacts different dimensions of self-experience and their relationship to well-being. Using a mixed-methods design, trained practitioners (N = 17) recalled two contrasting experiences: an ordinary waking state (a recent mealtime) and a self-induced trance. In each condition, they described their subjective experience, with a focus on various dimensions of self-consciousness such as self-concept, agency, bodily boundaries, self-location, and temporal awareness. Subjective well-being was also assessed using the Authentic Happiness Scale. Results showed that, compared to ordinary consciousness, the AICT state induced profound alterations in both narrative and minimal self-experience, including reduced self-referential thought, a more diffuse and decentered self-location, diminished sense of agency, attenuated bodily boundaries, and heightened feelings of oneness. These experiential changes were accompanied by increased subjective well-being, particularly in the form of inner peace. Correlational analyses yielded preliminary findings consistent with the hypothesis that these emotional benefits may be primarily associated with transformations in minimal self-related processes, though replication with larger samples is needed to confirm this pattern. These implications are discussed.