Induction of Ecstatic Trance
There can be many ways to induce Ecstatic Trance but the way I use is the ritual of the Cuyamungue Method. I find this ritual specially powerful in that it is Earth oriented. The benefits of it being Earth oriented is described in my most recent book, Trance Journeys of the Hunter-Gatherer: which will the topic of a future email. I believe that if there is a possibility to save our species from extinction due to climate change one important element is the use of ecstatic trance. As explained by Thomas Berry, to again feel a sense of oneness with the Earth and all life upon the Earth we need to experience it through dreaming, waking visions and regaining our shamanic personality.
Regarding the history of the Cuyamungue Method, Felicitas Goodman’s research into ecstatic trance led her to realize that five basic elements are necessary to induce trance:
• Having an open mind and relaxed body, along with the expectation of a pleasurable but nonordinary experience.
• Being in a sacred space, one separate from the activities of everyday life.
• Quieting one’s mind with a meditative technique such as counting one’s breath.
• Rhythmically stimulating the nervous system through rattling or drumming.
• Standing, sitting or lying in a particular body posture that gives direction to the trance experience.
From these basic elements Goodman developed the following ritual:
• Preparation: The instructor leads a discussion regarding the appropriate attitude and what can be expected in the ecstatic trance experience. For newcomers, the story of Goodman’s research is told. Then the particular posture to be used in the trance experience is described and demonstrated, with each participant practicing the posture. The instructor also attempts to answer any questions that the participants may ask.
• Sacred Space: The space in which the group meets is made sacred with two rituals, first each participant, the ritual space, and the drum or rattle to be used are cleansed with the ritual of smudging with the smoke from burning herbs or as I sometimes use and oil scent of sage. Second, the spirits are called from each direction and a gift of cornmeal is offered these spirits to welcome them to the sacred space.
• Quieting Inner Dialogue: The five minutes of silence is provided while each participant focuses on their breathing to assist them in quieting their mind. During these five minutes the person is allowed to stand, sit or lay in a comfortable position, though I suggest that they place their hands on their abdomen in order to feel it rising and falling with each breath.
• Stimulation of the Nervous System: The instructor or a designated rattler or drummer then commences rattling or drumming at the rate of approximately 210 beats per minute for a period of fifteen minutes to stimulate the nervous system and bring the person into a state of ecstatic trance.
• The Ritual: The intent of the session is established or defined by the posture used during these fifteen minutes of drumming or rattling, a posture that gives direction to the trance experience.
I would also add that during the preparation period while the participant is practicing the posture to be use that a useful question is: “What does the posture express or what are the feelings associated with the posture?” From my sensitivity to body language and non-verbal communication as a psychologist, what the posture expresses non-verbally well defines the direction in which the posture takes the person. From Goodman’s research she finds that some postures are for drawing in energy for healing and strengthening (Healing), some are for seeking answers to questions or predicting the future (Divination), while some are for journeying in the Under World, some the Middle World and some the Upper World. Then there are postures for shape-shifting (Metamorphosis), some that provide a death-rebirth experience (Initiation) and finally two postures are for Celebration or Calling the Spirits.
For those of you who may be interested in experimenting with ecstatic trance I would be happy to send you a file of drumming and pictures of the trance postures. It takes about 25 minutes. You can share your experiences with me and I will offer you feedback, brinknick9@gmail.com
Regarding the history of the Cuyamungue Method, Felicitas Goodman’s research into ecstatic trance led her to realize that five basic elements are necessary to induce trance:
• Having an open mind and relaxed body, along with the expectation of a pleasurable but nonordinary experience.
• Being in a sacred space, one separate from the activities of everyday life.
• Quieting one’s mind with a meditative technique such as counting one’s breath.
• Rhythmically stimulating the nervous system through rattling or drumming.
• Standing, sitting or lying in a particular body posture that gives direction to the trance experience.
From these basic elements Goodman developed the following ritual:
• Preparation: The instructor leads a discussion regarding the appropriate attitude and what can be expected in the ecstatic trance experience. For newcomers, the story of Goodman’s research is told. Then the particular posture to be used in the trance experience is described and demonstrated, with each participant practicing the posture. The instructor also attempts to answer any questions that the participants may ask.
• Sacred Space: The space in which the group meets is made sacred with two rituals, first each participant, the ritual space, and the drum or rattle to be used are cleansed with the ritual of smudging with the smoke from burning herbs or as I sometimes use and oil scent of sage. Second, the spirits are called from each direction and a gift of cornmeal is offered these spirits to welcome them to the sacred space.
• Quieting Inner Dialogue: The five minutes of silence is provided while each participant focuses on their breathing to assist them in quieting their mind. During these five minutes the person is allowed to stand, sit or lay in a comfortable position, though I suggest that they place their hands on their abdomen in order to feel it rising and falling with each breath.
• Stimulation of the Nervous System: The instructor or a designated rattler or drummer then commences rattling or drumming at the rate of approximately 210 beats per minute for a period of fifteen minutes to stimulate the nervous system and bring the person into a state of ecstatic trance.
• The Ritual: The intent of the session is established or defined by the posture used during these fifteen minutes of drumming or rattling, a posture that gives direction to the trance experience.
I would also add that during the preparation period while the participant is practicing the posture to be use that a useful question is: “What does the posture express or what are the feelings associated with the posture?” From my sensitivity to body language and non-verbal communication as a psychologist, what the posture expresses non-verbally well defines the direction in which the posture takes the person. From Goodman’s research she finds that some postures are for drawing in energy for healing and strengthening (Healing), some are for seeking answers to questions or predicting the future (Divination), while some are for journeying in the Under World, some the Middle World and some the Upper World. Then there are postures for shape-shifting (Metamorphosis), some that provide a death-rebirth experience (Initiation) and finally two postures are for Celebration or Calling the Spirits.
For those of you who may be interested in experimenting with ecstatic trance I would be happy to send you a file of drumming and pictures of the trance postures. It takes about 25 minutes. You can share your experiences with me and I will offer you feedback, brinknick9@gmail.com
No comments have been added yet.
