Time Slice Theory: Is Consciousness as Fluid as We Think It Is?
Our brains have all sorts of shortcuts to help us experience reality more efficiently. For example, you’ve probably seen one of those tests circulating the internet with a sentence full of mispselled wrods taht dno’t raelly inhbit yuor raeding speed, as long as the frist and last lettres in evrey word are unchanged. This phenomenon may be part of a conceptual explanation known as the Time Slice Theory of consciousness, suggesting our minds stitch together a narrative of individual frames, rather than a continuous, live stream.
The paper was published on PLoS-biology by scientists Michael Herzog of the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, and Frank Scharnowski of the University of Zurich in Switzerland. Their theory says our brains process reality in individual moments, or what they call percepts, arising in 400 millisecond intervals. These percepts are then stitched together and rendered as a continuously flowing sequence of reality that makes sense to us – much like a movie shot in high definition.
But instead of watching the movie and making judgements as we observe them, our unconscious mind reviews individual images, processes them in an abstract order, and makes subjective judgements based on heuristics from past experience. It then translates those judgements into an apparently fluid narrative, allowing you to efficiently process reality.
Time Slice Theory of Consciousness & Perception
Time slice theory says we only process reality after 400 millisecond intervals, and that there is minimal to no conscious observation between those frames; our brains only collect sensory information at discrete time-points. It is also within this period that our minds frantically work to make sense of it all.
It’s mind-boggling to think our unconscious can work so quickly, but our brains are fascinatingly powerful processors. It’s believed the mind calculates roughly 1014-1016 processes per second, or somewhere between 1 and 100 quadrillion calculations per second. The average computer functions at about half that speed.
So, what exactly happens during that unconscious judgement phase? According to Time Slice Theory, the brain processes specific features of objects, such as color and shape, quasi-consciously or unconsciously with high resolution. Within this moment there is no sense of linear time, in fact, changes in duration or even color aren’t processed. It then draws the necessary connections and stitches them together to pass off to the conscious stage.
Sometimes this period happens instantaneously and other times it takes longer, depending on the complexity of the information being fed to it. Occasionally, this leads to reactions based on false judgements, such as in fight-or-flight instances, but these instincts are naturally made to surpass the logical decision-making process, usually for survival reasons.
For instance, if someone jumps out of a closet and scares you, your unconscious perception recognizes an ostensible threat of unexpected, encroaching movement, in turn telling you to move or attack the stimulus without logical consideration.
Schizophrenics often report a slowed integration process in which the window of logical deduction takes longer and their stream of perception is fragmented.
This seems to parallel Robin Carhart-Harris’ entropic brain hypothesis regarding the Default Mode Network, the region of the brain believed to be responsible for the ego. His theory says that during a psychedelic, creative, or psychotic experience the mind sifts through more possible outcomes than it normally would, drawing from a number of seemingly incorrect conclusions to make sense of what it’s observing; with psychedelics this is what results in visual hallucinations.
Our brains can also draw false conclusions about reality while being completely aware of them. One such instance is known as the Cutaneous Rabbit Illusion; a physical deception in which a syncopated tapping of the wrist and elbow tricks the mind into feeling as if a tiny, invisible rabbit is hopping up the arm. This illusion happens because the mind infers the sensation in between the two areas of stimulation.
Listen to Alan Watts discuss our confusing perception of time:
A Similar Buddhist Theory of Consciousness
In the third century BC, the Abhidharma Buddhist School first recorded the concept of our brain’s discrete perception of reality. Their scripture refers to the threshold between conscious and unconscious awareness as the “Mind-door,” where we internalize information received through our sensory faculties.
The Mind-door characterizes the mind as the creator of subjective experience which forms the basis of memory and thought, and subsequently the micro-judgements that form the mind’s narrative. They considered the Mind-door to be our sixth sense, transcending time and making purely conceptual judgements.
Abhidharma Buddhists believed when an image reached this threshold, the mind would switch from inactive mode to any of the five-sense processes, based on whichever faculty was appropriate.
These discrete moments were referred to as dharmas – different from the teachings of the Buddha known as the dharma – used to describe experience encountered through the senses. But the dharmas weren’t simply objective experience, rather they are the product of “rapid consciousness that arise and cease in sequential streams, each having its own object, and that interact with the five externally directed sensory modalities of cognitive awareness.”
These dharmas are also described as “psycho-physical events with diverse capacities by means of which the mind unites and assimilates a particular perception, especially one newly presented, to a larger set of ideas already possessed, thus comprehending and conceptualizing it.” Sounds a lot like the Time Slice dynamic.
But Scharnowski and Herzog admit that their theory is purely conceptual and that the argument between a stream of consciousness theory and Time Slice theory remains unsettled. And while theirs is an interesting thought experiment into the way our brain processes consciousness, it doesn’t necessarily do much to answer the hard problem of consciousness itself – that is, what is consciousness?
The answer to that question remains to be understood if it can be understood in this realm at all. For more hints to help you answer such a primordial, existential question watch the documentary PHI: The Evolution of Consciousness:
About the Author
What Are the Akashic Records and What Are They For?
The Akashic Records are energetic archives containing the complete history of every soul. Every thought, word, action, and intention leaves an imprint on this energetic field, sometimes called the Akashic Library. This universal repository preserves past lives, current experiences, and potential future paths, offering insights into the soul’s journey, life’s purpose, and karmic patterns.
What is most astonishing is that anyone can access the Records. Through focused intention, guided meditations, or prayer, you can connect with this source of universal wisdom to gain guidance, clarity, and a deeper understanding of your spiritual path. This article explores what the Akashic Records are, how to access them, the benefits of an Akashic reading, and steps to begin your journey of spiritual growth.
Table of Contents
- What Are Akashic Records?
- History and Origins of the Records
- What Is an Akashic Records Reading Like?
- What Kind of Questions Can Be Asked?
- Are There Any Dangers in Accessing the Records?
- Who Can Read the Akashic Records?
- How to Learn to Read the Akashic Records
- Benefits of Accessing the Records
- Closing Prayer and Integration
What Are Akashic Records?
The Akashic Records are a universal memory of existence, a non-physical, energetic space where every thought, word, action, and emotion is recorded. Sometimes referred to as the Akashic Library, this archive preserves the history of each soul, its past lives, current experiences, and potential futures. It offers a comprehensive perspective on the soul’s journey, linking all beings and levels of existence across time.
The term akasha (or akasa) comes from Sanskrit and means ether or astral light, considered the fifth element in many spiritual traditions. These subtle vibrations capture not only individual life experiences but also universal patterns, providing insight into karmic influences, personal growth, and the soul’s purpose.
For anyone accessing the Records for the first time, the experience can reveal hidden tendencies, unexplored potentials, or connections with loved ones who have passed. The Records are a living resource for spiritual growth, supporting clarity, healing, and understanding in all areas of life.
Accessible through meditation, focused intention, or the guidance of an experienced practitioner, the Akashic Records can provide wisdom about behavioral patterns, relationships, and challenges, serving as a practical tool for navigating your spiritual journey.
In the series Microdose, available on Gaia, the fascinating subject of the Akashic Records is explored, offering practical perspectives for those wishing to deepen their understanding and experience of this universal library.
History and Origins of the Records
The concept of the Akashic Records has roots in both Eastern and Western spiritual traditions. In the East, philosophies have long described akasha as the fundamental etheric fabric of existence, a subtle dimension where all experiences are remembered as vibrations or astral light.
In the West, Helena Blavatsky, founder of the Theosophical movement in the late 19th century, introduced the Akashic Records after her studies and experiences in Tibet. There, monks and mahatmas shared that the records exist in the akasha—a Sanskrit word meaning ether—and are the repository of universal knowledge. Blavatsky claimed she could access them through clairvoyance and psychic abilities, including astral projection, and she shared these insights as part of a broader philosophy of universal wisdom. Her teachings emphasized that human thoughts, words, and actions leave lasting impressions on this subtle field, influencing spiritual understanding and personal growth.
Rudolf Steiner, another influential metaphysician, expanded the Western understanding of the Records, describing them as a source of inspiration for human ideals and evolution. He proposed that the Akashic Records not only preserve past events but also reveal patterns that guide humanity toward harmony, justice, and spiritual development.
During the 20th century, Edgar Cayce, often called America’s “sleeping prophet,” popularized the Akashic Records through his psychic readings. Cayce described how individuals could access the Records of their past, present, and potential futures to facilitate healing, gain clarity about life’s purpose, and understand karmic patterns. He likened the Records to a Book of Life, connecting each person to a universal consciousness and to the broader flow of the soul’s journey.
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Linda Howe further advanced the understanding and practice of accessing the Akashic Records. Through her teachings, books, and workshops, Howe developed practical methods for connecting with the Records, emphasizing personal empowerment, spiritual guidance, and insight into one’s spiritual path. Her work has helped make the Akashic Records accessible to a wide audience, bridging historical teachings with contemporary spiritual practice.
Contemporary thinkers such as Ervin Laszlo continue to explore the Akashic Records from both spiritual and scientific perspectives. His “Akashic Paradigm” considers consciousness itself as deeply connected to this universal memory field, bridging spirituality and science and offering a holistic view of existence.
What Is an Akashic Records Reading Like?
An Akashic reading is a sacred encounter where a trained reader accesses the akashic library to share insights and guidance. Unlike fortune-telling, these readings focus on understanding the soul’s journey, exploring past patterns, present challenges, and potential futures.
Key aspects of an Akashic Records reading include:
- Connection and Atmosphere: A quiet, focused environment allows both the seeker and reader to connect deeply with the Records.
- Guided Meditations and Intention: The reader may use guided meditations, prayer, or focused intention to attune to the subtle vibrations of the Records.
- Receiving Insights: Messages may come as intuitive impressions, symbols, images, emotions, or subtle sensations, offering clarity and direction.
- Exploring Themes: Common areas of exploration include the soul’s purpose, relationships with loved ones, karmic patterns, and personal growth along the spiritual path.
- Interpretation and Reflection: The reader helps the seeker understand and integrate the messages in ways that resonate with their life experiences.
Many seekers experience the reading as a fluid, interactive process rather than a strict step-by-step session. Each reading is unique, and the insights often help individuals:
- Gain clarity on life’s purpose
- Understand past lives and karmic influences
- Strengthen psychic abilities and intuition
- Receive guidance on relationships, career, or spiritual decisions
- Deepen self-awareness and personal spiritual growth
For those exploring the Akashic Records for the first time, the experience can be transformative, offering validation, reassurance, and a sense of connection to universal wisdom.
What Kind of Questions Can Be Asked?
Questions in an Akashic Records reading are most effective when they are open-ended and focused on personal insight, spiritual growth, and understanding the soul’s purpose. Instead of seeking simple yes or no answers, the goal is to explore guidance, clarity, and healing.
Common questions include:
- What is my life’s purpose in this incarnation?
- How can I align with my soul’s journey and fulfill my soul’s purpose?
- What lessons or patterns am I carrying from past lives?
- Are there karmic influences affecting my current experiences?
- How can I heal or strengthen relationships with loved ones?
- What guidance can I receive to develop my psychic abilities or intuition?
- How can I navigate challenges along my spiritual path?
- What do I need to release or transform for deeper spiritual growth?
- Are there messages from spirit guides or energies I should pay attention to?
- How can I prepare for major life changes or transitions for the first time?
These questions are intended to open a dialogue with the Records, allowing intuitive insights and guidance to emerge naturally. They help seekers gain a deeper understanding of their life, karmic influences, and the lessons their soul has chosen to explore.
Are There Any Dangers in Accessing the Records?
Accessing the Akashic Records is generally considered safe when approached with respect, intention, and openness. The Records are guided by universal wisdom and protected by benevolent beings, sometimes described as light beings or ascended masters, who ensure that the experience serves the seeker’s spiritual growth.
Key points about safety and guidance include:
- Pure Intention Matters: Approaching the Records with humility and sincere curiosity ensures the information received is aligned with the highest good.
- Guided Connection: Using prayers, guided meditations, or working with an experienced reader helps maintain a protected and focused space.
- No Harmful Energy: The Records are designed to offer insight, clarity, and healing rather than fear or harm.
- Support for First-Time Seekers: Those exploring the Records for the first time often find reassurance, calm, and a sense of connection to universal wisdom.
Rather than posing danger, accessing the Records can provide profound understanding of karmic patterns, personal challenges, and past lives. It fosters empowerment, helps release old attachments, and encourages alignment with one’s life’s purpose.
Who Can Read the Akashic Records?
Reading the Akashic Records is not limited to mystics, mediums, or those with innate psychic abilities. Anyone with curiosity, humility, and a sincere commitment to spiritual growth can learn to access this profound source of guidance.
Key insights about who can read the Records:
- No Special Talents Required: Success depends more on intention, practice, and respect than on innate abilities.
- Beginner-Friendly Access: Working with an experienced Akashic Records reader helps first-time seekers understand the process, interpret messages, and feel comfortable navigating the Records.
- Gradual Mastery: Over time, many individuals learn to open their own Records independently or accompany others during readings.
- Ethics and Responsibility: Workshops, courses, and training programs emphasize ethical principles and proper techniques, ensuring readings honor the privacy and integrity of the seeker.
Learning to read the Records becomes a spiritual path in itself, offering insight into the soul’s journey, helping align with life’s purpose, and encouraging personal transformation.
How to Learn to Read the Akashic Records
Learning to read the Akashic Records involves cultivating spiritual awareness, ethical intention, and consistent practice. Many practitioners begin by studying with experienced teachers such as Linda Howe, who provide guidance on opening and closing prayers, meditation techniques, and methods for interpreting the subtle impressions received from the Records. These teachings emphasize approaching the Records with humility, compassion, and a commitment to the seeker’s highest good.
In addition to formal instruction, numerous books, online courses, and webinars help seekers understand the energetic and vibrational nature of the akashic library. Regular practice through guided meditations, journaling, or mindful reflection strengthens intuition, sharpens psychic abilities, and deepens connection to the soul’s journey. Over time, this ongoing practice allows individuals to access their Records more easily, uncover karmic patterns, and gain insight into their life’s purpose and personal growth.
Benefits of Accessing the Records
Accessing the Akashic Records can provide profound insights and support for both personal and spiritual growth. By connecting with this universal archive, individuals gain clarity about their life’s purpose, uncover patterns from past lives, and better understand karmic influences affecting their present experiences. The Records also offer guidance for nurturing relationships with loved ones, developing psychic abilities, and strengthening intuition along the spiritual path.
Many seekers find that the Records enhance their spiritual journey, offering inspiration for guided meditations and practical strategies for daily life. Insights gained can help release limiting beliefs, heal emotional blockages, and align actions with the soul’s purpose. Whether approached for self-reflection, healing, or exploration of the akashic library, accessing the Records fosters a deeper connection to universal wisdom and encourages meaningful transformation over time.
Closing Prayer and Integration
Every Akashic Records session should conclude with a closing prayer, sealing the connection with gratitude and respect for the wisdom received. A simple example might be:
“I thank the keepers of the Records, my guides, and the universal field of wisdom for their presence and guidance. May these insights serve my highest good and the good of all.”
Integration of the insights is just as important as the session itself. Reflecting through journaling, meditation, or personal contemplation helps ground the guidance from the Records into daily life. Over time, consistent practice with the Akashic Records strengthens connection to the soul’s journey, deepens understanding of the soul’s purpose, and supports spiritual growth. Whether exploring past lives, gaining clarity about life’s purpose, or seeking guidance from loved ones, the Akashic Records become a trusted companion on the path of personal transformation.
