Altered States of Consciousness (ASC) refer to changes in mental processes, perception, and awareness that differ from normal waking consciousness. These states can occur naturally, such as during sleep or daydreaming, or can be induced through various means, including meditation, hypnosis, or the use of substances like psychedelics and alcohol. ASCs can lead to unique experiences, such as heightened creativity, altered perception of time, or feelings of unity with the environment. Researchers study these states to understand their effects on the brain and their potential therapeutic applications, particularly in treating conditions like anxiety and depression.