Somnambulistic trance is a state of sleepwalking or unconscious wandering. The spelling of this word can be broken down using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /sɒmˌnæmbjuːˈlɪstɪk træns/. The first syllable, "som," is pronounced like "some" with a short o sound. The second syllable, "nam," is pronounced like "nam" with a short a sound. The third syllable, "bu," is pronounced like "booh" with a short u sound. The rest of the word follows traditional English spelling patterns.
Somnambulistic trance refers to a state in which an individual engages in sleepwalking or noctambulism combined with a deeper level of altered consciousness. It is a phenomenon characterized by a person walking or performing various activities while asleep, typically during the early stages of sleep. In this state, the individual appears to be in a dissociated state of mind, often exhibiting automatic behavior that may be complex or purposeful.
This trance-like condition involves a temporary suspension of the conscious mind's control over physical actions, as the sleepwalker carries out tasks without any recollection or awareness upon waking. Sleepwalkers may navigate through their surroundings, interact with objects, and even engage in conversations, all while being oblivious to their surroundings and the consequences of their actions.
Somnambulistic trance can occur due to various factors, such as sleep deprivation, abnormal sleep patterns, certain medications, fever, stress, or underlying sleep disorders. It predominantly takes place during non-REM (rapid eye movement) sleep stages, when the body is not paralyzed and can physically act out dreams or unconscious impulses.
While sleepwalking itself is generally harmless, it can pose some risks, including the potential for injury if the sleepwalker encounters obstacles or hazardous environments. Treatment options for somnambulistic trance typically involve improving sleep hygiene practices, reducing stress levels, and ensuring a safe sleep environment to prevent accidents during episodes.
A state of somnambulism, paralysis, anesthesia, or catalepsy induced by suggestion in major hypnotism.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "somnambulistic trance" is composed of the terms "somnambulistic" and "trance".
- "Somnambulistic" is derived from the Latin word "somnus", meaning "sleep", and "ambulare", meaning "to walk". In everyday language, it refers to the state of sleepwalking. In a broader sense, it can also signify a state of heightened unconsciousness or being in a dreamlike state while awake.
- "Trance" originates from the Middle English word "traunce", which came from the Old French "trans", ultimately derived from the Latin "transire", meaning "to cross over". Originally, "trance" referred to a condition of being transported or overwhelmed, often associated with a state of altered consciousness or deep concentration.