Raw data NADA study

Introduction: Non-dual awareness, ego-dissolution, and mystical experiences are interconnected concepts that are often explored in the realm of spirituality and consciousness. The intent of this study was to investigate the range of ego-dissolution, as measured by the ego-dissolution inventory (EDI), in a population who claims to have undergone a mystical experience and/or experienced a non-ordinary state of consciousness. Unlike the research on ego-dissolution that focuses on the use of psychedelics, non-dual awareness, such as meditation, is a way to experience the mystical without the use of substances. Materials and Methods: Participants were recruited through websites, social media, and from the Rhine Research Center. Fifty participants accessed the survey and 37 completed both measures. Measures: Items from the Mysticism Scale, the Altered States of Consciousness Rating Form, the Mystical Experience Questionnaire, the Ego-Dissolution Inventory, the Dimensions of Meditative Experience Questionnaire, and the Effects of Meditation Scale were evaluated independently to determine selective measures of non-dual awareness. Data Analysis: This study found a strong positive relationship between the EDI subscales and the NADA Bliss Dimension. A significant, but weaker relationship was found between the EDI subscales and the NADA Self-Transcendence dimension. Discussion: Although the distinction between types of ASC was not the intent of our study, 92.59% of our population reported mystical/non-dual experiences without the use of substances. Qualitative feedback from participants regarding the questionnaire’s ability to measure non-dual/mystical experiences was mixed. Limitations and Future Directions: The primary limitation was that the sample size was not robust enough. Because this was a quantitative design, the experiences leading ego-dissolution and non-dual awareness were not known. Qualitative research is recommended to further explore the nuances associated with these experiences.