Inner Work and Psychedelics

When I started practicing trauma therapy 7 years ago, I had no idea my path would lead me to psychedelics.  I was fascinated by the idea of being able to access the subconscious, the nervous and feel our way in to healing; that given the opportunity the brain and the body are able to access past traumas, emotional upheavals, and transformative experiences, reprocess them, feel them, and reframe them, often resulting in a shift to their intensity and impact on a person’s current well-being.  

I knew this work was for me, when it happened to me, when I started exploring the different styles of therapy - and then the different ways in order to heal - and then the spiritual aspect to healing - and then opening myself to ideas that were outside what I once considered the path to healing.  

Leading me to psychedelics. 

It became obvious fairly quickly how psychedelics and inner work are topics that often intersect, as many people use psychedelics as a tool for exploring their inner thoughts, emotions, and consciousness. 

Inner work, in this context, refers to the process of self-exploration, self-improvement, and introspection - it is the work that prepares you for the use of the medicine and then the integration after your journey with the medicine.  

When we think about the synchronicities between psychedelics and inner work, we are often brought to the following ideas:

• Self-Exploration: Psychedelics, such as psilocybin, LSD, and ayahuasca, can alter perception and cognition, leading to profound experiences that facilitate self-exploration. Users often report a heightened sense of self-awareness and introspection during the psychedelic experience.
• Therapeutic Potential: Some research suggests that psychedelics may have therapeutic benefits when used in a controlled and supervised setting. Psychedelic-assisted therapy is being explored for conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction, where the experience can help individuals confront and process unresolved issues.
• Set and Setting: The mindset (set) of the person using psychedelics and the physical and social environment (setting) play a crucial role in the quality of the inner work experience. A safe, comfortable, and supportive setting is essential for a positive outcome.
• Integration: After a psychedelic experience, the process of integrating the insights gained is crucial. This involves reflecting on the experience, discussing it with a therapist or guide, and making practical changes in one's life based on the insights gained.
• THIS IS WHEN THE REAL WORK BEGINS! 
• Mindfulness and Meditation: Psychedelics can sometimes induce states of deep introspection and heightened awareness that are similar to those cultivated through mindfulness and meditation practices. Some people incorporate these practices into their inner work both before and after psychedelic experiences.
• Caution and Risks: Psychedelics are not without risks, including the potential for adverse psychological reactions or exacerbation of mental health issues. People with a personal or family history of mental health disorders should be cautious and consider the guidance of a healthcare professional.
• Legal and Ethical Considerations: The legal status of psychedelics varies widely by country and region. Engaging in psychedelic experiences outside of legal and ethical frameworks can lead to legal consequences and ethical dilemmas.
• Variability of Experiences: The effects of psychedelics can vary widely from person to person and from one experience to another. It's important to approach these substances with an open mind and without specific expectations.

With all of these considerations, both positive and cautionary in mind, psychedelics can be a catalyst for inner work and self-exploration, but their use should be approached with caution, respect, and a clear understanding of the potential benefits and risks. When used mindfully and with appropriate guidance, they have the potential to facilitate deep, transformative inner work experiences. It is important to emphasize that the legality and cultural acceptance of psychedelics varies greatly, and individuals should be aware of the legal and ethical implications in their own region.