Breaking Patterns: The Science of Habits & Expanded States of Consciousness

Many people live with habits they would like to change. These patterns may begin as coping strategies or sources of comfort, but over time they can become automatic, repetitive, and difficult to interrupt. Even when someone clearly recognizes that a habit is no longer serving them, stopping can feel surprisingly hard.

Unhealthy habits often persist not because of a lack of willpower, but because they are deeply embedded in how the brain learns, regulates stress, and seeks familiarity. These patterns can shape behavior, attention, and emotional responses in ways that feel difficult to shift through insight alone.

A recent study highlighted the growing potential of therapy involving expanded states of consciousness for treating Substance Use Disorder (SUD), especially in relation to alcohol, tobacco, and cocaine dependence. These experiences have been shown to reduce substance use and cravings, while promoting psychological well-being [1].

What We’ll Explore

• Why habits form and why they can be hard to change
• How rigid patterns of thought and behavior develop over time
• What current research suggests about expanded states of consciousness and cognitive flexibility
• How habits are reinforced by the brain’s reward and learning systems, making certain behaviors difficult to stop

[1] Medicina 2025, 61(2), 278; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61020278