trance

(noun)

A state of concentration, awareness, or focus that filters information and experience; for example, meditation, possession, etc.

Related Terms

Examples of trance in the following topics:

  • Hypnosis

    • Hypnosis is a trance-like state in which a person experiences heightened suggestibility.
    • Hypnosis is a trance-like state in which a person experiences heightened suggestibility.
    • It is important to note that suggestion is not the same thing as trance.
    • A trance is when an induced mental state facilitates the acceptance of instructions or ideas.

  • Unconscious Perception and Influences on Behavior

    • During a hypnotic state, an individual is in a trance state in which he or she is highly suggestible to outside information.
    • Many believe that that hypnosis is a form of unconsciousness resembling sleep, and that because the information is internalized on an unconscious level during a trance, the person may not be consciously aware of it .
    • A hypnotic trance state is an example of unconscious perception influencing behavior.

  • The Cosmos

    • The Buddhist universe consists of a large number of worlds that correspond to different mental states, including passive states of trance, passionless states of purity, and lower states of desire, anger, and fear.

  • African Art and the Spirit World

    • In many traditional mask ceremonies, the dancer goes into deep trance, and during this state of mind he or she is believed to communicate with ancestors in the spirit world.

  • Geometric Symbolism

    • Mandalas may be used to focus attention during meditation, as a spiritual teaching tool, for establishing a sacred space, or to aid in trance induction.