It’s no secret that our culture is obsessed with anything and everything that has to do with feeling good. From our momentary obsession with dieting and fitness to the rise of the wellness industry, people are increasingly looking for ways to happier, healthier lifestyles. One way to achieve a more balanced sense of well-being is by experimenting with psychedelic substances. Psychedelics — substances like LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, salvia, etc. — are renowned for their ability to expand one’s experience of reality and boost one’s mood in a positive manner. But what exactly makes them such an effective tool in achieving happiness? Let’s explore...
What is a psychedelic?
Psychedelics are substances that induce altered states of consciousness. This can be an increase in creativity or an increased appreciation/understanding of your own psyche, as well as a deeper connection to the people around you. Although most psychedelic substances have fallen out of favour, they remain an important tool in the research and practice of medicine.
How to have a great psychedelic experience
There are many factors that come into play when it comes to having a great psychedelic experience, but the most important thing is to follow your gut. The fact is, some substances are better suited for certain people than others. If you’re unsure about trying a certain substance, it’s probably a good idea to wait until you’re a bit more seasoned. It’s also important to keep in mind that the experience itself is just one part of the equation. If you don’t take the time to process and reflect on the experience afterwards, you’ll miss out on some of the most important aspects of happiness — growth and transformation.
Set and setting
It’s important to research the set and setting for the experience before you head out. You don’t want to just show up to a random house party with a bottle of LSD and hope for the best. Make sure you find a trustworthy source and person who can guide you through the experience. In terms of the setting, make sure it’s a place that feels safe and comfortable. A dimly lit bedroom is a good place to start. When it comes to music, try to avoid drowning out the experience with loud, distracting sounds. You’re looking to let go and relax, so go with minimal or ambient sounds.
Take the right dosage for you
Psychedelics are designed to feel intense, so it’s important to start small. Most experts recommend taking the smallest dosage possible for your first experience. This will give you a better idea of the overall effects and help you avoid an unpleasant or intense experience if it’s not for you. It’s also important to note that you can always dose more if you feel the effects are too strong. Taking too much of a substance can be dangerous. For example, while taking LSD may feel great, too much can cause extreme paranoia and even cause you to harm yourself. With this in mind, it’s important to weigh the benefits of experimenting with psychedelics against the potential risks.
Benefits of psychedelics
- Higher level of creativity - Many people report increased creativity, insights, and feelings of oneness after taking psychedelics. - Greater openness to new ideas - In a world filled with fast-paced distractions, open-mindedness can be hard to come by. Psychedelics can help you break free of rigid thinking patterns and open you up to new ideas and ways of looking at the world. - More empathy for others - Some psychedelics have the ability to help you open up and show compassion to those around you. A tinge of fear is normal while doing this so make sure you ease into it by reminding yourself that this is just a feeling and not reality. - Increased love towards self - One thing you’ll notice while on psychedelics is a deep love and respect for yourself. This is a crucial step in moving towards self-love and self-acceptance.
Limitations of psychedelics
- Bad trips - Psychedelics are known to cause intense experiences, but it’s important to remember that everyone might experience a bad trip. These can include anxiety, overwhelming thoughts, panic, paranoia, and even self-harm. - No guaranteed outcome - Psychedelics are designed to expand and enlighten your mind, but they don’t promise a sense of “happier-ever-after”. This can be difficult to deal with for some people as it can feel like a major life goal has been achieved. Again, it’s important to keep in mind that the experience is just one part of the equation.
Summary
Psychedelics are substances that change perception and alter consciousness. These substances are becoming more popular for their ability to help with trauma and anxiety, as well as boost creativity and love towards self. While they can be very effective in helping with these issues, they can also be dangerous if taken in the wrong setting or dosage. It’s important to research the substances you want to try before heading out, take small doses, and be mindful of your surroundings and feelings. If you want to experience a more profound shift in your happiness, psychedelics can be a great addition to your wellness routine.
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