Autonomic indicators of self-transcendence: insights from the numadelic VR paradigm

Abstract

Self-transcendent experiences (STEs) offer profound and beneficial shifts in perspective, yet remain largely inaccessible outside elite contemplative or pharmacological contexts. Although neural measures have advanced our understanding of these states, their cost and limited ecological validity restrict broader application. This study evaluates heart rate variability (HRV) amplitude, a measure reflecting dynamic sympathovagal engagement, as a cost-effective and sustainable physiological marker of STE during ‘numadelic’ virtual reality (VR) experiences designed to dissolve self-boundaries and foster embodied presence. Building on previous work showing (i) associations between non-ordinary states of consciousness (NOSC) and autonomic activity during psychedelic administration, and (ii) comparable STE intensity in non-drug numadelic VR, we tested whether HRV amplitude reflects STE depth and relates to affective and relational outcomes during numadelic VR. Ninety-six participants engaged in guided meditation either in numadelic VR or a non-VR audio-guided group format. Cardiac and respiratory data were recorded during the session, alongside pre- and post-meditation psychological assessments. Findings show that HRV amplitude measured during numadelic VR correlates with subjective STE ratings, as well as compassion traits, and emotional improvement following practice. Reanalysis of data from a prior psychedelic study further supports the relevance of this measure across different methods of inducing NOSCs. These results advance the psychophysiological mapping of STEs and identify HRV amplitude as a promising real-time biomarker that may help guide participants toward self-transcendent states within adaptive environments. By integrating contemplative science with immersive design, this work contributes to scalable tools that broaden access to and deepen understanding of STEs.