Exploring shamanic journeying: repetitive drumming with shamanic instructions induces specific subjective experiences
Bruno Gingras1, Gerald Pohler1, W Tecumseh Fitch1
1Department of Cognitive Biology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
Plos One
|July 8, 2014
Summary
Repetitive drumming and meditation music both lower cortisol levels. However, the specific subjective experiences linked to shamanic drumming were not reflected in endocrine responses.
Area of Science:
- Psychophysiology
- Neuroscience
- Music Therapy
Background:
- Repetitive drumming and shamanic journeying are anecdotally linked to physiological and therapeutic effects.
- Previous research suggests potential benefits, like increased salivary immunoglobulin A.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if repetitive drumming with shamanic instructions specifically impacts salivary cortisol and subjective states compared to meditation music.
- To differentiate the physiological and psychological effects of shamanic journeying versus general relaxation.
Main Methods:
- 39 participants (inexperienced in shamanic journeying) were exposed to 15 minutes of either repetitive drumming or instrumental meditation music.
- Participants received either shamanic journeying or relaxation instructions.
- Salivary cortisol levels were measured pre- and post-exposure.
- Mood and subjective experiences were assessed using questionnaires.
Main Results:
- A significant decrease in salivary cortisol was observed across all conditions, indicating music and relaxation reduce cortisol.
- No significant differences in cortisol levels were found between the different music or instruction groups.
- Participants in the shamanic drumming group reported more dreamlike experiences and physical sensations (heaviness, decreased heart rate).
Conclusions:
- While both drumming and meditation music reduce cortisol, the specific subjective effects of shamanic journeying are not mirrored by distinct endocrine changes.
- Subjective experiences during shamanic drumming are unique and not solely explained by general relaxation or cortisol reduction.
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