What lies beyond the edges of our normal everyday waking consciousness? Join researchers from the Altered States Lab at Macquarie University (and our friends!) for a trip through ancient and modern techniques of consciousness alteration to discover what altered states can teach us about the inner workings of our brains and minds.  

We will explore how meditation can change our senses, navigate the mysteries of sleep, test whether hypnotic suggestions can help break automatic habits, delve into the latest findings from the frontiers of psychedelic science, and investigate how new technologies such as flicker light stimulation are being used to alter consciousness. 

This will be an interactive presentation with opportunities for the audience to experience and compare some consciousness altering technologies. 

The Altered States Lab is led by Dr Vince Polito in the School of Psychological Sciences at Macquarie University. Our team uses cutting edge science to explore the potential of altered states as tools for better understanding psychological functioning, improving mental health and enhancing cognition. 

Join us during Science Week as we attempt to untangle some of the big questions about human consciousness.