Time and consciousness - The importance of time for our perception, health and quality of life

Summary of the topics and results of the research retreat of the Research Field Applied Conscientiology from July 24 to 28, 2013

Abstract

The second research retreat of the Research Section of Applied Consciousness Sciences covered the topic time and consciousness. Both the deeply theoretical basis of ‘time’, as well as the phenomenal experience through experiments and meditation allowed for a thorough exploration of this multifaceted interrelationship. Starting from the interpretation of time as a mental construct different models of time were discussed, questioning the existence of time outside of our thinking. The physical reality would be a continuously transforming ‘now’, a theory which is confirmed by the formulation of the essential physical laws. Since the world is experienced through observation, in physics the timescale is put into perspective expressed by the Theory of Relativity, and according to quantum theory ‘now’ is followed by a temporally extended potentiality. The mental perception of time is relative as well and depends on both, the contents and meaning of events, as well as their speed and interaction with the body’s own processes. In this context an experiment with different metronome cadences was performed, which exploits the listeners ability to cluster steady beats. The result showed that after meditation, participants had an extended time of presence. The influence of rhythm and synchronicity on consciousness was experienced firsthand through sound journeys and joint music playing on a large variety of percussion instruments. During a meditation session, participants attempted to drop the conceptualization of time and other mental constructs to approach a state of non-duality and be able to conjecture its qualities. The variety of experiences and unique moments led to an abundantly fulfilled time for the participants.