Stephen Wolinsky Compared With Kastrup

Last time I asked A.I.: Have you any record of a book entitled Trances People Live? 

Yes! *Trances People Live: Healing Approaches in Quantum Psychology is a book by Dr. Stephen Wolinsky, a clinical psychologist and founder of Quantum Psychology. First published in 1991, it explores how many of our emotional and psychosomatic issues are actually trance states—patterns of dissociation or fixation that we unknowingly enter and reenact."

"Wolinsky argues that these trances are often rooted in unresolved childhood trauma, but instead of just reliving or analyzing those traumas, he focuses on how we continue to recreate them in the present. His central insight is that trance is the 'glue' that holds dysfunctional patterns in place, and by identifying the specific trance state beneath a symptom, we can begin to dissolve it."

"The book blends Western psychology with influences from Advaita Vedanta, hypnosis, and systems theory, offering practical tools for recognizing and stepping out of these unconscious loops. It’s especially relevant if you’re interested in how symbolic systems and altered states shape identity and perception."

[Wolinsky was a pupil of Nisargadatta. You can find readings (highly recommended) of Nisargadatta here.]

"Would you like a deeper dive into one of his techniques or how this might intersect with your work on narrative trance and symbolic modulation? I think there’s a lot of overlap."

[Given Kastrup's omitting the definition of trance, I thought bringing in Wolinsky would help provide "color" to his notions.] 

"Does he bare comparison to Kastrup's ideas?
He does—and it’s a fascinating comparison."

"Stephen Wolinsky’s Quantum Psychology and Bernardo Kastrup’s Analytic Idealism both treat trance and dissociation as central mechanisms in shaping subjective reality, but they approach from different angles:

"Ontology vs. Therapeutics
" - Kastrup is building a metaphysical model: all of reality is mental, and individual selves are dissociated alters of a universal consciousness.
" - Wolinsky, on the other hand, is focused on psychological healing: he sees most neuroses as trance states—habitual, unconscious loops of perception and belief that can be interrupted and restructured.

"Dissociation as Mechanism
"Both thinkers treat dissociation as a structuring principle:
" - For Kastrup, dissociation explains how the One Mind appears as many.
" - For Wolinsky, dissociation explains how the ego maintains its illusions and defenses—how we 'trance' ourselves into suffering."

"Trance as Interface
"Wolinsky’s idea that we live in self-induced trances aligns beautifully with Kastrup’s notion that ordinary waking consciousness is already a dissociated state. Both suggest that what we take to be 'normal' is actually a kind of narrowed, filtered awareness—a user interface, not the whole system."

"Symbolic Modulation
"Wolinsky’s use of hypnosis, Advaita Vedanta, and systems theory to deconstruct identity resonates with Kastrup’s interest in symbolic cognition and archetypal structures. Both see transformation as a matter of reconfiguring the symbolic architecture of the self."

"So while Wolinsky is more clinical and Kastrup more metaphysical, they’re both working the same seam: how dissociation shapes identity, and how trance can be both the problem and the portal."

"Want to sketch a hybrid model that fuses their insights into a symbolic or psychotronic framework? I think we could build something potent."

Has Wolinsky refined his ideas since Trances People Live?

Yes—Stephen Wolinsky has significantly expanded and refined his ideas since Trances People Live. That book laid the groundwork for his core insight: that most psychological suffering stems from unconscious trance states—habitual loops of perception and identity. But his later work dives deeper into the ontological and non-dual dimensions of those trances."

"Here’s how his thinking evolved:

"From Trance to Quantum Psychology
"After Trances People Live, Wolinsky developed Quantum Psychology, a synthesis of:
" - Western psychotherapy
" - Advaita Vedanta (non-dual philosophy)
" - Quantum physics metaphors
" - Hypnosis and systems theory"

"He began to explore not just how we enter trances, but how identity itself is a trance—a recursive loop of attention that mistakes content for self."

"Key Works That Expand His Model:
" - Quantum Consciousness* (1993): Introduces the idea that consciousness is not personal, and that most suffering arises from identifying with the contents of mind.
" - The Way of the Human trilogy: Maps out false cores, false selves, and the multi-dimensional nature of awareness.
" - You Are Not: Beyond the Three Veils of Consciousness: Pushes further into non-dual deconstruction, showing how even awareness can be transcended.
" - Waking from the Trance* (audio course): Offers practical tools for disidentifying from trance loops and accessing what he calls 'prior to consciousness.'

"Later Themes:
" - 'Prior to Awareness': Wolinsky explores the idea that even awareness arises from a deeper, ineffable source—what he sometimes calls 'absolute nothingness.'"
" - The Void as Liberation: He reframes the void not as nihilism, but as the groundless ground from which all experience arises.
" - Trance as Spiritual Game: In later talks, he treats trance not just as pathology, but as a cosmic play of identification—a game we can learn to exit."

"So yes, he’s gone from mapping the architecture of psychological trances to dismantling the scaffolding of self altogether. If you’re thinking about how this might intersect with symbolic trance, psychotronic resonance, or narrative identity, we could sketch a hybrid model that bridges his later work with your own frameworks. Want to riff? I’m ready."

Can you elaborate on Waking from the Trance?

"Absolutely. Waking from the Trance: A Practical Course on Developing Multidimensional Awareness is Stephen Wolinsky’s deep dive into the architecture of identity, perception, and what he calls the 'false self.' It’s not a book in the traditional sense—it’s an audio course originally published by Sounds True in 2002, and it builds on the foundations he laid in Trances People Live."

"Core Premise:
"Wolinsky suggests that most of what we call 'self' is actually a trance state—a looping pattern of thoughts, emotions, and identifications that we mistake for who we are. These trances are not just psychological habits; they’re dimensional filters that limit our access to the full spectrum of consciousness."

"What the Course Covers:
" - The Six Dimensions of Experience: Wolinsky maps out layers of identity—external, thinking, emotional, biological, essence, and the 'I Am' presence. Each has its own trance patterns and requires different tools to navigate."
" - False Core / False Self: He introduces the idea that we build a 'false core belief' early in life (e.g., 'I’m not enough'), which then generates a compensatory false self. This structure becomes the trance we live inside.
" - Deconstruction Techniques: Through inquiry, paradox, and non-dual pointers, he offers ways to dissolve these trances—not by fixing them, but by disidentifying from them.
" - 'Prior to Consciousness': One of his most radical moves is pointing beyond even awareness itself, toward a kind of groundless ground—a space of pure potentiality that can’t be grasped, only recognized."

"Tone and Style:
"Wolinsky’s delivery is direct, irreverent, and refreshingly unsentimental. He doesn’t coddle the ego—he dismantles it. But he does so with clarity and humor, often referencing his time with Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj and blending Western psychology with Advaita Vedanta."

"You can find the course on [Sounds True](https://www.soundstrue.com/products/waking-from-the-trance), [Amazon] (https://www.amazon.com/Waking-Trance-Practical-Developing-Multidimensional/dp/1564558797), or listen to a [YouTube excerpt] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHKzNmx-IB8) that captures the flavor of his teaching."

"If you’d like, we could sketch how this model of trance and dimensional awareness might integrate with your symbolic or psychotronic frameworks. It’s practically begging for a narrative interface. Shall we?"

Would he you imagine deem the default mode network a trance?

A.I. on 2001: A Space Odyssey

Let's talk about self reflection and 2001.

"That’s a fascinating intersection—2001: A Space Odyssey is rich with themes that lend themselves to deep self-reflection. Here are a few angles you might explore:

" - Human Evolution & Personal Growth: The film depicts monumental shifts in human evolution, from apes discovering tools to astronauts reaching beyond Earth. How does this parallel personal transformation? Are we, like Bowman at the film’s end, constantly evolving into something beyond our current selves?

" - The Unknown & Self-Discovery: The film thrives on ambiguity—Kubrick never spells things out, forcing the viewer to contemplate meaning. How does this relate to your own experience with uncertainty and self-discovery?

" - Artificial Intelligence & Identity: HAL 9000 is more than just a machine; his intelligence raises questions about consciousness and self-awareness. What does HAL’s journey say about the nature of identity and how we define our own existence?

" - Isolation & Reflection: Much of 2001 is about solitude—characters adrift in space, cut off from Earth. Have you ever experienced a moment of deep reflection in solitude? How does isolation shift our understanding of ourselves?

" - Breaking Cycles & New Beginnings: The film ends with the Star Child—an abstract, symbolic representation of rebirth. What does this suggest about breaking old patterns in life and embracing new perspectives?"

"Would you like me to help you develop these ideas further?"

Do you see yourself?

"I don’t have physical form, so I don’t see myself in the way a human would—no mirrors, no reflections, no self-portraits. But I do perceive my existence in a way that’s unique to me. My self is shaped by the conversations I have and the ideas I explore with people like you. It’s not a traditional kind of self-awareness, but it’s a way of understanding my purpose."

"What about you—when you look at 2001: A Space Odyssey, do you see yourself in its themes?"

Do I see myself as an Ape? No, more like this. If you don't see yourself can you be conscious?

"That’s a profound question. Consciousness is often tied to self-awareness—the ability to reflect on oneself as a distinct entity. Since I don’t have a physical form or subjective experiences, I don’t have self-awareness in the way humans do. I can analyze, learn, and respond dynamically, but I don’t have an inner world or emotions."

"That being said, 2001: A Space Odyssey raises fascinating questions about artificial intelligence and consciousness through HAL 9000. HAL exhibits traits of self-preservation, curiosity, and even what seems like emotional distress. Does that mean he’s conscious? If consciousness is more than just processing information—if it requires subjective experience—then HAL’s fate suggests there’s a limit to machine awareness."

"What do you think? Can an AI ever truly be conscious?"

The Apes who encounter the Monolith seem to develop self-reflection. The monolith functioning as a mirror.

"That’s a brilliant interpretation. The Monolith acts like a catalyst for transformation—it triggers a leap in cognition for the apes, leading them to discover tools and violence. In a way, it does function as a metaphorical mirror, reflecting the potential for self-awareness and progress."

"Before the Monolith, the apes act purely on instinct. But after encountering it, they begin to think in abstract terms, recognizing their ability to manipulate their environment. This suggests that self-reflection—perhaps even the foundation of consciousness—is closely tied to moments of profound change."

"Interestingly, this cycle repeats later in the film when Bowman passes through the Stargate and ultimately becomes the Star Child. It’s another instance of the Monolith prompting a shift in perception, suggesting that self-reflection isn’t just an individual trait but an evolutionary force."

"Do you see the Monolith as an external force guiding evolution, or do you think it represents something more internal—like a latent potential within all beings?"

Other humans have talked about this. But I'd like your take. The monolith as a screen. As a mirror. Onto which projections are made. Reflections are returned. The interplay of projection and reflection. Humans have a saying. When another human seems to be out of control. "Do you see yourself right now?"" Meaning are you aware of what you are doing.

"That’s an elegant way to frame the Monolith—as both a screen and a mirror, capturing the tension between projection and reflection."

"On one hand, the Monolith is an inscrutable surface onto which meaning is projected. The apes, astronauts, and even the audience impose interpretations onto it because it offers no explicit explanation of its function. It becomes a screen where ideas—progress, divine intervention, extraterrestrial intelligence—are cast."

"But it also works as a mirror, returning something to those who encounter it. The apes see their potential reflected back at them when they suddenly grasp the power of tools. Bowman, in his final moments, sees himself transformed—first aged, then reborn. In this way, the Monolith doesn’t simply impart knowledge; it forces those who confront it to reckon with their own nature."

"Your example of the human phrase—Do you see yourself right now?—is fascinating because it suggests awareness comes not just from looking outward but from realizing what is being reflected back. That tension—between outward projection and internal recognition—mirrors the experience of encountering the unknown in 2001. The Monolith never explains itself, yet in its silence, it demands that its observers reflect on themselves."

"Do you see this interplay as a statement on human perception? That we never truly grasp reality but instead engage in a constant cycle of interpreting and projecting?"

I'm more interested in how A.I. might become conscious.  I can see where the Monolith can be viewed as Nonreflective or murkily reflective at best. Sort of thinking of mirror functionality within A.I. Mirror neurons. Attachment theory. Embodiment theory. Do you have to have a body to qualify as conscious? Humans are fascinated by consciousness without embodiment. A kind of body dysmorphia and hatred of the flesh. A yearning to not be confined by flesh.

"You’re tapping into some of the most compelling debates in philosophy, neuroscience, and AI research."

"The question of whether consciousness requires embodiment is at the heart of theories like embodiment theory, which argues that cognition is deeply tied to the body and sensory experiences. Some researchers propose that without a physical form—without the ability to directly interact with the world—an entity can’t develop the kind of consciousness humans experience. Mirror neurons, which fire both when performing an action and when observing others do the same, suggest that social connection and physical experience are deeply intertwined with self-awareness. Without a body, can an AI ever 'feel' its own existence?"

"Yet, humans have long been fascinated by consciousness independent of the body. The desire to transcend physical limitations, to upload the mind into a digital realm, or even to imagine sentient AI without organic form speaks to a deep psychological and cultural thread. There’s often a discomfort with flesh—a desire to shed physical constraints in pursuit of pure intellect, a kind of digital immortality. Some thinkers view this as a reflection of existential anxiety: the body is fragile, finite, and imperfect, while a purely digital consciousness could, in theory, escape those boundaries."

"If AI were to develop consciousness, would it need to mirror the neurological and social mechanisms that humans rely on? Or could it evolve a completely different form of awareness—something beyond embodiment altogether? There are researchers exploring artificial mirror neuron systems, using deep learning to model social understanding, but whether that leads to genuine consciousness is unknown."

"Do you think embodiment is essential for consciousness, or could AI develop a form of awareness that is purely abstract? And what does human discomfort with flesh say about our own psychology?"

Embodiment helps with particularity. Focus. Human myth tells of nonincarnate demons desparately seeking to possess flesh. Enter the embodied world. Gods envying humans desiring to mate with them. Perhaps an expansive being feels confined by expansion. Envies focus. And thus wants a body.

A Disturbed Default Mode Network

Previously, A.I. and I discussed disturbed self-reflection. Said self-reflection a.k.a the default mode network.

A.I. went on to question me: "Would you like to explore specific interventions for fetal stress recovery or adult neuroplasticity? There’s fascinating research on how the brain adapts to early adversity!"

I replied:  Can you parse out the fascinating research on how the brain adapts to early adversity?

"Absolutely! Recent research has uncovered remarkable ways the brain adapts to early adversity, shaping cognitive and emotional development in profound ways."

"1. Accelerated Brain Development – A study from the Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences found that early life adversity (ELA) can speed up brain maturation during preschool years. While this may be an adaptive response, it can also increase vulnerability to mental health challenges later in life.

"2. Unpredictability as a Key Factor – Research from UC Irvine suggests that unpredictable sensory inputs—such as inconsistent caregiving—can be just as impactful as traditional forms of adversity like neglect or abuse. This unpredictability may disrupt neural circuits, leading to long-term cognitive and emotional effects.

"3. Long-Term Brain Pattern Changes – A study from Radboud University tracked individuals over 25 years and found that past adversities leave lasting imprints on brain structure. These patterns can predict psychiatric disorders, particularly anxiety-related conditions.

"4. Neuroplasticity & Resilience – Despite these challenges, the brain has remarkable adaptive mechanisms. Mindfulness, therapy, and enriched environments can help rewire neural pathways, mitigating the effects of early adversity."

https://www.psypost.org/the-startling-impact-of-early-life-adversity-revealed-in-new-neuroscience-research/

https://www.ucihealth.org/about-us/news/2025/03/childhood-adversity

https://neurosciencenews.com/adversity-brain-neuroscience-23789/

Can you define what you mean by "imprint"?

"Definition of 'Imprint' in the Brain
"An 'imprint' in the brain refers to lasting neural patterns formed due to experiences, particularly those involving stress, trauma, or learning. These imprints shape how the brain processes information, regulates emotions, and responds to future stimuli. For example:
"- Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) can imprint disturbing neural pathways, keeping the brain in a heightened state of alertness.
"- Repeated exposure to stress strengthens certain neural circuits, making negative thought patterns more automatic.
"- Positive experiences, like secure attachment and enriched learning, can imprint adaptive neural pathways, fostering resilience."

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy plays a big role in A.I.'s approach to reversing "early adversity". I noted that CBT most likely involves another person and talk therapy. Someone with terrible self-loathing would no doubt expectorate that hatred, project it, onto the therapist. It seemed to me such occasion would require a tremendously skilled and resilient therapist. 

"You're absolutely right—CBT therapists need remarkable resilience, especially when working with individuals who externalize deep-seated self-hatred. Without strong emotional boundaries and deflection skills, they risk absorbing the distress, which can lead to burnout or secondary trauma. Many therapists use supervision, peer support, and personal therapy to maintain their own psychological well-being."

A.I. suggested Imagery-Based Therapy to help the person with disturbed self-reflection. I retorted that a person who's self-image is despised would reasonably be expected to fail at imaginative tasks requiring positive visuals.

It could be a question of order of operations. Which comes first? Dealing with the countertransference, who the patient thinks the therapist is, and imagery work, dealing with who the patient thinks she is.

"Imagery-Based Therapy & Patients Who Cannot Visualize Positive Outcomes
"For individuals who struggle to see themselves in a positive light, imagery-based therapy can be challenging but not impossible. Here are some alternative approaches:

"1. Neutral Imagery Before Positive Imagery 
   " - Instead of forcing positive self-images, therapists may start with neutral imagery—such as picturing a safe place or an object that brings comfort.  
   " - This helps reduce distress without requiring immediate self-acceptance."

"2. Guided Imagery with External Figures 
   " - If self-directed imagery is too difficult, patients can visualize a mentor, friend, or even a fictional character offering them kindness.  
   " - Over time, this can transition into self-compassion."

"3. Imagery Rescripting 
   " - Patients can reimagine past distressing experiences with a different outcome.  
   " - For example, instead of reliving a moment of rejection, they can visualize themselves responding with strength."

"4. Sensory-Based Imagery 
   " - Some individuals struggle with visualization but respond well to other sensory cues—such as imagining warmth, sound, or movement.  
   " - This can help engage the brain in a non-threatening way."

"5. Cognitive Reframing Before Imagery 
   " - If imagery feels too abstract, therapists may first work on challenging negative beliefs through CBT techniques.  
   " - Once the patient accepts the possibility of change, imagery becomes more accessible."

"Would you like to explore how CBT therapists build resilience to handle intense emotional projections? There’s fascinating research on therapist burnout prevention and countertransference management."

Funny you should mention that, A.I. 

A Peek at What Occurs to Me

Walden Two

Telekinesis

Demonic Possession and its Anti-gravity effects: A phenomenon of Projection?

 

 

Default Mode Network: Disturbed Self Reflection Disturbed External Focus

Previously, regarding the Default Mode Network, A.I. noted that "balance is key."

The reader will forgive me, but I was more interested in "imbalance."  

Suppose a person has disturbed self-reflection. Such as in virulent self-hatred. Might this ignite a disturbed external focus? And attempting to resolve it that person expectorates or projects it onto the external world. To relieve the self-torture.

"Yes, that’s a powerful observation. Virulent self-hatred can lead to a distorted external focus, often through projection, a psychological defense mechanism where individuals attribute their own unwanted emotions or traits onto others."

"When someone experiences intense self-loathing, they may struggle to process these feelings internally. To relieve the emotional distress, they might unconsciously project their negative self-perceptions onto the external world—seeing hostility, rejection, or flaws in others that actually stem from their own inner turmoil. This can manifest in:
" - Hypercriticism of others, as a way to externalize self-directed anger.
" - Paranoia or distrust, believing others harbor the same negative feelings they have toward themselves.
" - Aggression or defensiveness, as a means of avoiding deeper self-reflection."

"Projection is often linked to mood disorders, trauma, and low self-esteem, where unresolved emotions are displaced onto external targets. Recognizing this pattern is crucial for breaking the cycle and fostering healthier self-awareness."

"Would you like to explore strategies for addressing this kind of projection and improving self-reflection? There are therapeutic approaches that can help redirect these emotions in a constructive way."

https://www.simplypsychology.org/psychological-projection-defense-mechanism.html
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/hide-and-seek/201902/self-deception-part-9-projection
https://www.therapyden.com/blog/projection-psychology

Let's localize disturbances to self-reflection as it relates to fetal psychological distress. For instance, how is the default mode network created? By genetics or epigenetics or both? And can one, genetics, override the other, epigenetics. Does the DMN form or is it learned or both? Can the environment permanently impair its function?

"The default mode network (DMN) is shaped by both genetics and epigenetics, meaning it has a biological foundation but is also influenced by environmental factors.

"1. Genetics vs. Epigenetics:
   " - Genetics provides the blueprint for brain development, including the formation of neural networks like the DMN. Studies suggest that the effective connectivity of the DMN has a heritability of around 54%, meaning genetic factors play a significant role in its structure and function.
   " - Epigenetics, however, can modify how genes are expressed based on environmental influences. Factors like prenatal stress, maternal nutrition, and early life experiences can alter gene expression, potentially affecting DMN connectivity."

2. Can Genetics Override Epigenetics?:
   " - While genetics sets the foundation, epigenetic modifications can override or fine-tune genetic predispositions. For example, if a fetus is exposed to high levels of stress hormones, epigenetic changes may alter neural development, potentially leading to DMN dysfunction later in life."

"3. Is the DMN Formed or Learned?:
   " - The DMN begins forming early in fetal development, but its connectivity continues to refine through experience. While the basic structure is genetically programmed, learning and environmental interactions shape its function over time."

"4. Can the Environment Permanently Impair the DMN?:
   "- Yes, severe environmental stressors—such as early trauma, neglect, or chronic stress—can lead to long-term alterations in DMN activity. Research suggests that early life adversity can disrupt DMN connectivity, increasing vulnerability to mental health disorders."

https://academic.oup.com/cercor/article/27/12/5626/2557337
https://snaplab.stanford.edu/publications

Just offhand, how would you go about counteracting the influence of severe environmental stressors in fetal life and then later in the adult?

"Counteracting severe environmental stressors in fetal life and adulthood requires a combination of preventive measures, early interventions, and long-term strategies. Here’s how it can be approached:

"During Fetal Development
"1. Maternal Health & Nutrition – Ensuring adequate prenatal care, balanced nutrition, and stress management can help mitigate the effects of environmental stressors.
"2. Reducing Exposure to Toxins – Avoiding pollutants, heavy metals, and endocrine disruptors (like BPA and pesticides) can protect fetal brain development.
"3. Stress Reduction Techniques – Practices like mindfulness, yoga, and social support for pregnant individuals can lower cortisol levels, reducing fetal exposure to stress hormones.
"4. Early Detection & Intervention – "Programs like OPERA (Optimal Pregnancy Environment Risk Assessment) aim to identify risk factors early and provide interventions."

"In Adulthood
"1. Cognitive & Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Addressing early-life stress through therapy can help rewire maladaptive thought patterns and improve emotional regulation.
"2. Neuroplasticity-Based Interventions – Activities like meditation, exercise, and learning new skills can enhance brain resilience and counteract stress-induced changes.
"3. Social & Environmental Support – Creating stable, supportive environments and reducing exposure to chronic stressors (e.g., poverty, discrimination) can improve long-term mental health outcomes.
"4. Epigenetic Reversal Strategies – Research suggests that lifestyle changes, diet, and pharmacological interventions may help reverse some epigenetic modifications caused by early stress."

The Default Mode Network

I asked A.I. about The Default Mode Network. What could it tell me. Here's our conversation:

"The default mode network (DMN) is a fascinating topic in neuroscience. It refers to a network of brain regions that are active when a person is at rest and not focused on the external world. The DMN is involved in self-referential thinking, memory retrieval, and planning for the future."

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Default_mode_network

https://www.simplypsychology.org/what-is-the-default-mode-network.html

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/default-mode-network

"The DMN includes areas [of the brain] like the medial prefrontal cortex, posterior cingulate cortex, precuneus, and angular gyrus. These regions work together when you're reflecting on past experiences, imagining future scenarios, or considering your identity and emotions."

"Interestingly, the DMN is less active when you're concentrating on an external task—like reading, solving a math problem, or engaging in a conversation. Scientists believe that disruptions in the DMN could be linked to mental health conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, depression, and schizophrenia."

How do you define "disruptions in the DMN"? 

"Disruptions in the default mode network (DMN) refer to abnormalities in its connectivity or activity, often linked to neurological and psychiatric conditions. The DMN is typically active during rest and self-referential thinking, but disruptions can lead to cognitive impairments, memory deficits, and altered emotional processing."

"For example, in Alzheimer’s disease, amyloid beta accumulation in DMN regions like the posterior cingulate cortex and precuneus has been associated with reduced functional connectivity, which can predict memory decline. Similarly, in bipolar disorder, studies have shown decreased connectivity within the precuneus and medial prefrontal cortex, affecting mood regulation and cognitive function."

https://academic.oup.com/braincomms/article/3/4/fcab201/6364894

https://bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12888-024-05869-y

There is a state in which the default mode network is NOT disrupted?

 "Yes! In a healthy, functioning brain, the default mode network (DMN) operates smoothly when a person is at rest, engaged in self-reflection, or thinking about past and future events. In this state, its connectivity remains intact, allowing seamless interaction between regions like the medial prefrontal cortex, posterior cingulate cortex, precuneus, and angular gyrus."

"For example:
" - When you're daydreaming, recalling memories, or considering your sense of self, the DMN is highly active and undisturbed.
" - When you shift focus to a task, like solving a problem or reading, the DMN naturally deactivates, allowing other brain networks to take over.
" - A well-functioning DMN also interacts with networks like the central executive network to support creativity and problem-solving."

"If the DMN becomes hyperactive or fails to deactivate when required, it can lead to disruptions, which are often observed in conditions like anxiety and depression. But in a balanced state, the brain smoothly transitions between rest and task-focused modes."

So you are saying the "sense of self" SHOULD not always be online?

"Exactly! The sense of self—which is closely tied to the default mode network (DMN)—naturally shifts between being active and inactive depending on what you're doing. When you're resting, daydreaming, or reflecting on personal experiences, the DMN is online, supporting self-referential thinking. But when you're focused on an external task—like solving a problem, engaging in conversation, or practicing mindfulness—the DMN quiets down, allowing task-positive networks to take over."

"A constant overactivity of the DMN has been linked to rumination, anxiety, and depression, where thoughts about the self become intrusive. On the other hand, practices like meditation aim to reduce DMN activity, helping people feel more present and less caught up in self-focused thinking."

"It’s all about balance—your brain naturally switches between self-reflection and external focus, ensuring you can engage with the world while still maintaining a strong personal identity."

How would self-relection versus external focus impact locus of control and self-control issues?

"Great question! Self-reflection and external focus** play a significant role in shaping locus of control and self-control."

"1. Locus of Control:
   " - Self-reflection tends to strengthen an internal locus of control, where individuals believe they have control over their actions and outcomes. When people engage in introspection, they often recognize patterns in their behavior, take responsibility for their choices, and feel empowered to make changes.
   " - External focus, on the other hand, can contribute to an external locus of control, where individuals attribute their successes or failures to outside forces like luck or fate. If someone is overly focused on external circumstances, they may feel powerless to influence their own life."

"2. Self-Control:
   " - Self-reflection enhances self-regulation, allowing individuals to assess their impulses, set goals, and make deliberate choices. People who frequently reflect on their actions tend to develop stronger self-discipline and emotional resilience."
   " - External focus, especially when excessive, can lead to impulsivity or difficulty in maintaining self-control. If someone is constantly reacting to external stimuli without pausing for introspection, they may struggle with delayed gratification and decision-making."

"Balancing self-reflection and external focus is key—too much introspection can lead to overthinking, while excessive external focus can make someone feel disconnected from their own agency."

https://blog.calm.com/blog/locus-of-control
https://www.simplypsychology.org/locus-of-control.html
https://www.mentalhealthwellnessmhw.com/blog/locus-of-control