Transcranial-focused ultrasound - Will states lead to traits?

I had the privilege of teaching the first retreat that studied the effects of transcranial-focused ultrasound (tFUS), a noninvasive technology that induces meditative-like benefits such as equanimity. The results were mixed but profound for several participants.

My brief experiences trying tFUS have involved popping into meditative states that normally take days or weeks on retreat to cultivate, like the fully developed Shamatha described in Stages 9 & 10 of The Mind Illuminated, the deep equanimity of 4th Jhana, or the Insightful knowing of the interconnected and not-self nature of all phenomena. The treatment takes 10 minutes.

Many meditators dream of attaining similar states conducive to knowing Dukkha (the Pali word for unsatisfactoriness or suffering) and its cessation, and it makes sense why this technology could provide benefits beyond augmenting meditation.

Anecdotally, I predict the crux of tFUS will be integrating the beneficial states it potentially provides. The phrase “traits, not states” sums it up nicely. Profound conscious states do not guarantee wisdom, and the path to integrating supramundane experiences, especially prolonged ones, can be complex. I see this difficulty of integration for meditators unfold often during and after retreats.

It's a fantastic problem to have, though. Suppose your identity and worldview are transformed because you no longer suffer or have experienced that possibility. In that case, you undertake the meaningful journey of learning to be someone who feels good. That journey is good for you and likely for everyone else, too.

I hope to have more opportunities to teach retreats with tFUS, and I am excited to learn more about its effects and potential benefits. I especially wish to learn more and contribute to effectively integrating any benefits the technology provides.

Thank you to Jay and Shinzen, along with Brian and Erica with the SEMA Lab, for making this particular use of the tFUS possible and for making it possible on our silent retreat!