trance

Trance is a term used to describe a temporary state of altered consciousness and focused attention in which awareness of the surrounding environment is reduced and suggestibility may increase. Trance states occur in a variety of cultural, religious, and therapeutic contexts and can be induced by rhythmic or repetitive stimuli, intense emotion, fasting, prolonged meditation, or guided relaxation and hypnosis. They are often marked by changes in perception, memory, and voluntary control, as well as a subjective sense of expanding inner experience or a sense of being transported.

In scientific and clinical contexts, trance is viewed as a spectrum rather than a single condition. Neurophysiological studies associate trance-like states with changes in brain activity, including reduced activity in the default mode network and altered thalamo-cortical connectivity, along with heightened attention and emotional processing. Trance is studied in relation to psychotherapy, hypnosis, ritual practices, and performance arts, where it can function as a means of relaxation, focus, or experiential immersion.

Trance music refers to a distinct genre of electronic dance music that developed in the 1990s, especially in Europe. It is typically anchored by a tempo around 125 to 150 beats per minute and emphasizes melodic, hypnotic, and uplifting textures. Tracks commonly feature extended builds, evolving arpeggios, and long passages intended to evoke a trance-like response in listeners. Subgenres include goa trance, psytrance, uplifting trance, and progressive trance, each with unique rhythmic and melodic tendencies.

See also: hypnosis, meditation, electronic dance music.