Naina Gupta - Mapping Unitive States

Unitive states of consciousness represent profound experiences of oneness that are deeply interconnected with individual psychedelic experiences. These states often present as overwhelming ontological shocks, yet they hold significant therapeutic promise when integrated through the correct conceptual framework. Relying on the Nalanda tradition from contemplative studies, the speaker proposes integrating psychedelic-induced shifts with structured contemplative practices to ground and stabilize these states for long-term benefit. By applying a framework that balances middle-way philosophy with empirical phenomenological methods, it becomes possible to transform transient epiphanies into enduring personal insights and a more compassionate way of engaging with the world at large.