5 Things to Consider Before Doing Psychedelics
When we think of psychedelics, the image that often comes to mind is a hippie at Woodstock, tripping on LSD (acid) or Psilocybin (shrooms), shouting “Free love!” We might also associate them with the dark legacy of the CIA’s unethical experiments. But today, psychedelics are being explored in scientific research as potential treatments for mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and other disorders.
If you’re anything like me, your curiosity about psychedelics might just pull you down the proverbial rabbit hole and tempt you to give them a try. But before you hop in, take a moment to consider a few tips to help ensure your trip is both safe and enjoyable.
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1) Research, Research, Research!
The first thing I did before even thinking about doing psychedelics was learn about it! Whether it’s acid or shrooms, it’s vital to know all about the substance you’re choosing to put in your body. I don’t mean reading about other people’s experiences because this is subjective information and everyone’s experience is different. I liked learning about simple, credible facts from scientific journals online and watching documentaries.
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2) Set and Setting
An important concept to know is “set and setting.” This means being aware of your mindset (mental and emotional state) and environment (physical surroundings and people you’re with). Knowing your set and setting during your psychedelic experience heavily influences the nature and outcome of it. I liked tripping when I knew I had many things to be grateful for and positive things to look forward to. I also liked tripping outdoors in nature (as long as it’s safe!) and indoors in a comfy, cozy, and clean space.
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3) Solo vs. Group
For first-timers, it’s recommended to have a guide (someone who’s experienced with psychedelics, trustworthy, and sober) to help oversee the trip. Some people end up tripping with other first-timers, which can either go smoothly or go terribly wrong. For others, a mixture of seasoned users and first-timers can offer a nice balance of support and guidance. And for those like me, who prefer solo trips, it allows for an uninfluenced and intimate time of self-reflection.
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4) Intention
Although I believe that everything I’ve told you so far is vital, intention is the most vital of them all. What is your purpose for doing psychedelics? If your answer to this question is anywhere along the lines of “to see weird shit” or “get fucked up,” I advise you to stay away from psychedelics. Like with anything we do in life, intention is what makes or breaks an experience. And when it comes to psychedelics, this is true times 100. I liked meditating before a trip, so that my mind is clear to set intentions which is something I can verbalize to myself with positive emotions (e.g., gratitude, joy, and love).
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5) The Comedown
As your psychedelic experience comes to an end, you might encounter a “comedown” that feels similar to a hangover after a heavy drinking session. The intensity of this comedown can vary from person to person, depending on factors like the dose taken and individual sensitivity. During a comedown (what I refer to as “floating back to reality”), I like to remind myself that my mind and body are simply restoring balance from the trip. It can feel uneasy, like coming down from the clouds in a plane and having to readjust as you return to solid ground. This is the best time to reflect on everything you learned about yourself and life during the trip and how those lessons can help you in the future.
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