Altered states of consciousness is an intriguing topic, but one that is still often questioned and misunderstood in our culture. It is a topic that is alive and well in communities with a variety of spiritual practices, and the increase in public interest in recent years suggests that the topic is becoming increasingly topical. However, there is relatively little sound and scientific information available in the Latvian language on what altered states of consciousness actually are, what their positive effects are and what potential risks they entail. It is important to know that spiritual experiences are potentially possible for all of us. Moreover, it can start to happen suddenly, spontaneously. It is important to pay attention to the fact that vivid altered states of consciousness, such as mystical experiences, are so intense that they can also contribute to the actualization of pathological states, but when properly integrated, these experiences can become a wonderful inner resource. Awareness can help to provide this.