What is Psilocybin Like?
While keeping in mind that experiences with Psilocybin are often referred to as “ineffable,” let’s dive in and provide an overview of what an experience with Psilocybin is like.
What is Psilocybin?
Psilocybin is the psychoactive compound found in ‘Magic Mushrooms.’ When ingested, Psilocybin stimulates serotonin 2A receptors in the prefrontal cortex of the brain, affecting mood, cognition and perception.
What is the felt experience of Psilocybin like?
While there is no definitive way to answer the question of what Psilocybin is like, we can unpack what can occur during a Psilocybin experience. Psilocybin can take you on a deep dive into your subconscious. It provides a unique opportunity to become aware – and potentially address – of what has been repressed. With Psilocybin, it is possible to face our ‘shadow’. The shadow, in this instance, represents all the unconscious parts of yourself that your ego doesn’t want to admit to. By meeting our shadow, we can incorporate the parts of ourselves that we are unaware of and yet, that influence our daily lives.
Effects can include feelings of heightened emotional sensitivity, alterations in sensory perception as well as perceptions of time and, in some cases, loss of identification with self or “ego dissolution.”
With these altered perceptions and/or dissolving of the self, Psilocybin can disrupt habitual thought patters. This gives us a window of opportunity to initiate the process of rewriting old habits and belief systems while building new neural pathways in the brain. The power of Psilocybin lies in its ability for neurogenesis.
How long does an experience with Psilocybin last?
The felt experience of Psilocybin normally takes effect within 30-60 minutes after ingestion. The peak of the Psilocybin experience normally lasts 2 to 3 hours with effects wearing off after 4 to 6 hours. The experiences can be longer or shorter based on a variety of factors. It recommended that a full day be dedicated to this experience, allowing time to relax, rest and be in a peaceful environment following the experience with Psilocybin. When possible, removing obligations after the experience is advised.
What might Psilocybin help me with?
Psilocybin is the psychoactive compound in ‘Magic Mushrooms’. Mushrooms are the fruiting bodies of mycelium. Mycelium play many roles in ecosystems, including: decomposing organic compounds; eradicating pollutants; acting as biological filters; and serving as binders for plants to establish roots in new soil. Mycelium have even proven to break down radioactive waste and turn piles of landfill and garbage into compost for gardening.
The examples act as analogies for Psilocybin: composting old ways of thinking, behavioral patterns and belief systems that no longer serve to transform them into fertile soil for new seeds. Psilocybin has the potential to help us see beyond our everyday realities, offering a new perspective on various facets of our lives.
So, want to find out more about Psilocybin? First, read this…
The psychedelic realm is eccentrically unique; a Twilight Zone of sorts. A surreal experience, although different factors may influence the experience.
Psil Silva, The Psychedelic Trip Journal
With all of the promising research being done on Psilocybin, it’s no surprise that you are considering learning what Psilocybin is like. Before you do, make sure to do your research around matters like dosage and legality. One option is to check out on-going clinical trials to see if you meet the criteria. Alternatively, there are retreat centers in areas were Psilocybin is legal. Lastly, have a trusted person sit with you during your experience. No matter what option you choose, if you decide to have an experience with Psilocybin, skilled support from an Integration Coach or therapist is crucial. Find a trusted person that you get along with to help you decide on an appropriate setting, work through intentions, establish your mindset and process your experience through integration.
Experiences with Psilocybin can be beautiful and positively transformative. They can also be challenging and confusing. It’s of the utmost important to treat these substances and experiences with care and respect. Remember, what you put in is what you will get out. You may not always get what you want, but you’ll get what you need. Never try to take on these experiences alone, support is always available!
Disclaimer: The views in this blog and of the blog writer do not necessarily represent Being True To You LLC. The writer of this blog is an independent contractor, and Being True To You does not necessarily endorse the content written within this blog. Being True To You does not advocate, suggest, approve or disapprove of the use of psychedelic medicines such as Ibogaine. The content written in this blog is not medical advice and is for entertainment purposes only. Being True To You provides transformational recovery and integration “coaching” to individuals and families through the addiction recovery and psychospiritual healing process. Coaching is not a medical service and is not regulated by any governmental authority. It is an emerging profession not accredited by any institution or organization. Being True To You coaching is not counseling or psychotherapy and does not use professional assessments or diagnose mental illness. Being True To You coaches are independent contractors who provide recovery coaching to Being True To You assigned clients on a case-by-case basis.