Elements of Psychedelic Journeys

I SAFETY

When clients ask me about how to go about their own explorations with psychedelics I always begin with safety. A few questions to ponder on:

• What compound have you chosen and why? How will you assess its quality and dose it?

• What are its physical and psychological effects?

• What is your current physical and mental health and how might this experience affect it? What are the opportunities and risks?

• What’s the best setting for this experience for you?

Addressing these questions beforehand can be very supportive of having a safe, deeply healing journey rather than just a fun experience or possibly running into complications that might be hard to handle.

II INTENTION

If you’ve decided to embark on your own journey experience, one important element is stepping into it with a whole hearted intention. You can begin this several days or weeks before your journey, by reflecting and journaling on what you are seeking.

• What aspect of your life is needing some attention?

• What is you heart’s deepest longing?

• If you could take one big step towards healing in your life, what would that look like?

Sometimes intentions are very sharp while others they can be very open-ended questions and a general interest for exploring your consciousness. Whatever it is, be sure to invite it in a meaningful way into your exploration, before, during and after.

III JOURNEY

Once you’ve decided to embark on your journey, remember to address both your intention as well as preparation for maintaining physical health and integrity. Consider elements of safety, water, waring comfortable clothing, staying warm and having someone to sit with you to help as needed. Also think about having a music playlist for your journey beforehand.

IV INTEGRATION

The days after your journey can be just as deep and meaningful for your process than the experience itself. This is the time of contrast between your experience and your day to day life.

• What parts stood out the most?

• What was challenging?

• How does your experience relate to your original intention?

During this time your brain may also be in a more open and receptive place to accompany transformation and shifting of perspectives. In many ways the process you began with intention will continue to unfold. Here are a few ways in which you can support your integration process:

• physical self-care: drink water, sleep well, eat nutritious foods

• take walks in nature

• join a peer integration circle

• seek individual support

Have you had a recent psychedelic experience you’re curious to learn more from? Perhaps you’ve run into challenges or strong emotions you’re struggling to process?

I am available for a free consultation.