The Brain’s Default Mode Network
Science Behind Mystical Experiences and Its Role in Human Consciousness
The brain’s default mode network (DMN) plays a central role in shaping human consciousness and experiences of self. Neuroscientists have found that the DMN, a network of interacting brain regions active during rest and inward focus, filters much of the sensory and emotional input people receive. This filtering process helps maintain a cohesive sense of identity—but it can also limit perception and broader awareness.
During mystical experiences, whether triggered by meditation or psychedelics, activity in the DMN is often reduced, allowing for changes in perception and emotion. Research suggests that loosening the control of the DMN may underlie the feelings of oneness and expanded consciousness that are reported in these states. Understanding the relationship between the DMN and mystical experiences offers insights into both normal brain function and extraordinary mental states.
Understanding the Default Mode Network
The default mode network (DMN) is a collection of brain regions with synchronized activity during states of rest, self-reflection, and mind-wandering. It is closely linked to internal mental processes, such as daydreaming, remembering, and constructing one's sense of self.
Anatomy and Function of the Default Mode Network
The DMN consists of several interconnected areas, including the medial prefrontal cortex, posterior cingulate cortex, precuneus, and parts of the parietal lobe. These regions exhibit higher activity when a person is not engaged in goal-directed or external tasks.
One primary function of the DMN is self-referential processing, such as reflecting on one’s thoughts, emotions, and personal experiences. (See Table 1 for Key DMN Regions and Functions.)
Brain Region Role in DMN Medial Prefrontal Cortex Self-evaluation, decision making Posterior Cingulate Cortex Memory, emotional processing Precuneus Visual and spatial imagery Parietal Lobes Integration of sensory input
When the DMN is active, the brain tends to turn inward, focusing on autobiographical memories and inner narratives.
DMN and Functional Brain Networks
The default mode network is one of several large-scale functional brain networks that communicate and balance activity with other systems. When the DMN is active, task-positive networks that handle attention and problem-solving are less engaged.
A key feature of the DMN is its ability to "toggle" with other networks, allowing the brain to switch between focusing on the external world and internal thoughts. This dynamic interplay supports cognitive flexibility and adaptability.
Research indicates that disruptions in DMN activity are associated with conditions such as depression, ADHD, and Alzheimer's disease. Understanding how the DMN interacts with other brain networks offers insights into both healthy brain function and psychiatric disorders.
Daydreaming, Self, and the DMN
Daydreaming occurs when the DMN dominates brain activity, pulling attention away from the external environment. During these moments, people imagine scenarios, reflect on past events, or plan for the future.
The DMN plays a crucial role in constructing the sense of self by supporting autobiographical memory and self-related thoughts. This network helps maintain a continuous internal dialogue and a consistent personal identity.
Frequent shifts between daydreaming and goal-directed thinking highlight the DMN's influence on how individuals experience time, memory, and selfhood.
Neuroscience of Mystical Experiences
Researchers have investigated how altered brain function relates to mystical experiences and their associated feelings of ego dissolution and transcendence. Empirical and neuroimaging studies provide insights into the brain regions and networks involved.
Neurobiological Explanation for Mystical States
Mystical experiences are linked to measurable changes in brain activity. Neuroimaging consistently shows reductions in neural activity in areas like the default mode network (DMN) and the inferior parietal lobule, which are associated with self-referential thought and body awareness.
During spiritual experiences, the usual boundaries of the ego often dissolve. This ego dissolution corresponds to decreased connectivity in brain regions involved in self-identity. Temporal and parietal regions also play key roles, with altered activity correlating to the sense of unity or transcendence often reported by individuals.
Scientists propose that these neural shifts temporarily disrupt the typical sense of self, making way for sensations of connection and self-transcendence.
The Role of the DMN in Mystical Experiences
The default mode network is a group of interconnected brain regions—including the medial prefrontal cortex and posterior cingulate cortex—that is most active when a person is not engaged in external tasks. This network supports self-reflection, autobiographical memory, and internal narrative.
During mystical experiences, studies indicate a marked decrease in DMN activity. This reduction is associated with reduced self-focus and diminished ego boundaries, features frequently described as ego dissolution.
Reduced DMN connectivity may allow other brain networks to communicate more freely, contributing to intense feelings of unity or spiritual connection during mystical experiences or after use of substances such as classic hallucinogens.
Mystical Experience Questionnaire and Measurement
Quantifying mystical experiences requires standardized tools. The Mystical Experience Questionnaire (MEQ) is widely used in research to assess components such as unity, transcendence of time and space, and deeply felt positive mood.
The MEQ includes questions that ask participants to rate experiences related to ego dissolution, changes in perception, and spiritual significance. Responses provide data that can be correlated with brain imaging findings.
Researchers use MEQ scores alongside neuroimaging to examine how specific brain states underlie different aspects of mystical experiences, helping to link subjective reports with specific neurobiological changes.
Altered States and the Default Mode Network
Changes in the brain’s default mode network (DMN) play a central role in how individuals experience altered states of consciousness. Disruptions in DMN activity are linked to the effects of psychedelics, ego dissolution, and meditative practices.
Psychedelic Drugs and DMN Modulation
Psychedelics such as psilocybin (found in magic mushrooms) and LSD exert their effects by altering neurotransmission, especially at serotonin 2A (5-HT2A) receptors. These drugs decrease the integrity and connectivity of the DMN, a network involved in self-referential thinking and the sense of self.
Research shows that during a psychedelic trip, DMN hubs—like the medial prefrontal cortex and posterior cingulate cortex—show reduced synchronization. This breakdown correlates with vivid hallucinations and a sense of expanded consciousness. The changes observed can be measured with fMRI and EEG, which show marked shifts in resting-state brain activity.
Key points:
Psilocybin and LSD disrupt DMN integrity
DMN suppression aligns with the intensity of mystical or “boundary-dissolving” experiences
Effects are transient but may have lasting psychological impact
Ego Dissolution and Consciousness
The DMN is closely tied to the maintenance of the ego—the internal narrative voice that organizes identity and memories. Under the influence of psychedelics, or during certain altered states, DMN activity drops. Many users describe this as “ego dissolution,” a temporary loss or blurring of the boundary between self and environment.
Ego dissolution is characterized by:
Feeling Description Unity Merging with surroundings or other people Loss of self-boundaries Vague distinction between “self” and “other” Timelessness Disorientation regarding time/space Reduced internal dialogue Decrease in self-talk and ruminative thought
This state is considered central to the profound or mystical nature of psychedelic trips. Some individuals report lasting changes in their perspective after such experiences.
Meditation and Self-Transcendence
Meditative practices—especially advanced forms like mindfulness and non-dual awareness—can also dampen DMN activity. During deep meditation, imaging studies reveal reduced connectivity in DMN hubs, paralleling the effects seen in psychedelic states but typically through non-pharmacological means.
Practitioners often report sensations of “selfless awareness” or “self-transcendence.” The reduction in ruminative, self-focused thought appears to foster well-being and emotional regulation. Over time, these changes can become more pronounced with consistent meditative practice.
While meditation and psychedelics affect the DMN through different mechanisms, both can lead to altered perceptions of ego and enhanced experiences of consciousness.
Psychedelics and Therapeutic Applications
Recent research has shown that psychedelic drugs may directly alter brain networks related to self-reflection, mood, and perception. These effects are now being explored for their ability to address complex mental health issues, provide relief from mood disorders, and offer new approaches to addiction treatment.
Mental Health and Existential Distress
Psychedelics such as psilocybin and LSD are linked with significant reductions in existential distress, particularly in patients facing life-threatening illnesses. Clinical studies show that these substances can produce experiences characterized by mystical-type phenomena, fostering a sense of connection and meaning.
In cancer patients, psilocybin sessions have reduced anxiety about mortality and improved quality of life. The brain’s default mode network, often overactive in rumination and worry, shows reduced activity during these sessions. This change is associated with a decrease in fear and psychological suffering.
Some research highlights supportive therapy during these experiences as key, helping patients integrate insights and confront difficult emotions. These findings suggest a possible role for psychedelics in palliative care settings.
Depression, Anxiety, and Suffering
Psychedelics are being investigated for their effects on treatment-resistant depression and chronic anxiety. Controlled trials indicate that a single dose of a compound like psilocybin can lead to rapid and lasting symptom reductions.
During psychedelic sessions, individuals report a temporary lifting of negative thought patterns, which correlates with changes in brain connectivity. The default mode network shows pronounced deactivation, disrupting rigid cognitive loops often involved in depressive thinking.
Sustained benefits have been recorded, lasting for weeks or even months after a single session. Importantly, psychological support and preparation are considered necessary to maximize safety and outcomes in clinical studies.
Addictions and Therapeutic Potential
Research into psychedelic drugs, including ayahuasca and LSD, suggests potential benefits for various substance addictions. Studies have reported decreased cravings and higher rates of abstinence in individuals struggling with alcohol, nicotine, or other substances.
Mechanistically, psychedelics appear to facilitate perspective shifts, helping users confront underlying emotional pain and behaviors linked to addiction. This is partly attributed to the temporary disruption of the default mode network, which may enable the brain to rewire habitual pathways.
Therapeutic protocols typically involve supportive psychotherapy alongside drug administration. Early evidence points to measurable improvements but underscores the need for further large-scale clinical trials and careful screening of participants.
Hallucinogens, Creativity, and Awe
Hallucinogens have long been sources of both scientific inquiry and personal transformation. Research links these substances to changes in creativity, deep feelings of awe, and transformations mediated by the brain's default mode network (DMN).
Hallucinogens and Creativity
Psychedelic substances such as psilocybin, LSD, and mescaline are known to alter consciousness and perception. Studies using brain imaging have shown that these compounds disrupt the normal connectivity of the DMN, a network involved in self-referential thought and introspection. This disruption can lead to new patterns of thought and association.
Some researchers suggest that when usual DMN activity is reduced, the brain becomes less constrained by habitual thinking. This state appears to allow for more cognitive flexibility, increasing the likelihood of creative insights. Artists, writers, and scientists have historically reported flashes of creativity or new perspectives during or after psychedelic experiences.
Notably, not everyone becomes more creative after using hallucinogens. Personality, intention, and environment contribute to the outcome. Controlled settings and careful use may be most conducive to beneficial creative effects.
Experiencing Awe Through DMN Change
Awe is a profound emotional response often accompanied by a sense of vastness or a need to adjust mental frameworks. Classic hallucinogens frequently induce awe in users by producing vivid sensory experiences and a dissolution of boundaries between self and world.
Functional neuroimaging shows that hallucinogens dampen DMN activity. This suppression may contribute to the subjective feeling of losing the self or ego, which is commonly described in reports of awe and mystical experiences.
Key characteristics of these awe-filled states include time distortion, heightened sensory perception, and a powerful sense of interconnectedness. Such experiences can have lasting effects, with some users reporting increased life satisfaction and shifts in personal values after the experience.
Notable Figures: Timothy Leary and Psychedelic Research
Timothy Leary was a well-known American psychologist who became a leading spokesperson for the use of hallucinogens. In the 1960s, his research at Harvard explored how psychedelics could affect mind, creativity, and consciousness.
Leary argued that substances like LSD could promote personal growth and new ways of thinking by influencing the brain's processing systems. Though his methods and advocacy were controversial, his work drew attention to the potential benefits and risks of psychedelics.
Modern studies build on early research by Leary and others. Contemporary scientists now use advanced imaging technology to monitor DMN changes, offering deeper understanding of how these drugs shape creativity, awe, and subjective experience.
