Mind machines: A controlled study on the effects of electromagnetic and optic-acoustic stimulation on general well-being, electrodermal activity, andexceptional psychological experiences

Mind machines are said to induce relaxation and an altered state of conscio usness. The influence of optical-acoustic (OAS) and electrical stimulation (ES) mind machines on general well-being, electrodermal activity and altere d states of consciousness was investigated and compared with pure rest and a placebo. Thirty participants underwent 4 conditions in random sequence: r est, placebo stimulation, GAS, and ES. Statistical evaluations before and a fter the experimental stimulations showed differences in general well-being and electrodermal activity measures but no between-conditions effect. ES a nd OAS produced significantly more visionary experiences and fear of ego di ssolution than rest and placebo. Differences in mystical experiences were f ound between ES and GAS. Mind machines do not have a specific effect or? ge neral well-being and physiological relaxation, although they may produce un usual psychological experiences; people with psychiatric illnesses should n or use such devices.