Mind-altering refers to anything that changes a person’s mental state, affecting their thoughts, perceptions, emotions, or consciousness.
This can happen through various means, including
substances—drugs (legal or illegal) such as alcohol. Alcohol is a legal 'drug.'
Drinking alcoholic beverages was a pastime I once enjoyed when I was growing up as a teenager and a young adult.
In reflection, I did not know at the time we were drinking that I was a heavy drinker. Now that we are older, we are, hopefully, wiser!
We should always practice moderation in our eating and drinking.
The thing is, when one is drinking alcohol, one can become intoxicated. This 'high' period is when mind-altering experiences take place. It changes a person’s mental state, affecting their thoughts, perceptions, emotions, or consciousness.
At the time I was drinking, the high states I experienced were a drug telling me to continue. That 'happy' feeling is a fool's paradise. Beware!
The Lord gives “wine to gladden the heart of man.” Psalm 104:15
“Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.” Proverbs 20:1
Instead of drinking, we can do physical activities like marathon running, which can induce a "runner’s high."
Effects of Mind-Altering Substances/Practices:
Altered perception.
Mood changes such as euphoria, anxiety, and relaxation.
Cognitive shifts like expanded awareness, confusion, and detachment from reality.
Spiritual or mystical experiences, such as feeling connected to something greater.
Some mind-altering experiences can be downright dangerous. Many road accidents take place because of teens in a state of altered reality.
Such accidents can result in the loss of life of the person intoxicated as well as of innocent bystanders.
Other harmful experiences can result in addiction and long-term mental health issues.
As can be seen, legal and illegal drugs can affect individuals, groups, the community, and society.
The mind can be stimulated with worthwhile activities.
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