Susan Lahey

There’s a mysterious energy quietly influencing your brain. Could it explain where your consciousness originates?

Here's what you'll learn when you read this story… Research suggests that consciousness could extend far beyond just humans—every cellular creature in the universe, no matter how big or small, could be conscious, too.

Disrupting your thought patterns could be key to achieving a greater sense of understanding.

Here's what you'll learn when you read this story: Researchers believe that chanting may induce altered states of consciousness—but they aren't completely sure why.

Humans have a lot of self-calming rituals built around water. We treat ourselves to long, hot baths.

Does what we conceive of as “nothing” even exist? According to quantum field theory—which is thought to be the most successful theory in all of

The sun slips below the horizon, washing the sky in color. A powerful strain of music swells and fills a concert hall. For many people these are delightful experiences.

Humans evolved to use these peak mind states to do just about anything—with a little practice.

We might need to reconsider our position in the consciousness hierarchy.

Susan Lahey "Hearst Magazines and AOL may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."