Psychedelics are substances that allow a person to perceive and experience the world differently. The sense of time and space can change. During a trip, everything someone sees, smells, and feels can deviate from normal waking consciousness. Colors are more vivid and things often seem to move. Psychedelics provide access to other layers of consciousness, leading to new experiences and insights. They are powerful ‘consciousness enhancers’ that can be used for many purposes. People use psychedelics both recreationally and in therapeutic contexts. Examples include LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, and DMT.

Psychedelic mushrooms and plants are found all over the world and have a long history of ritual use. In many indigenous cultures, psychedelics are revered as sacraments and used in rituals to promote health, strengthen social cohesion, and connect with the spiritual world.

The recent history of psychedelics in the West begins with the first synthesis of the drug LSD. In 1938, scientist Albert Hofmann first synthesized LSD. It wasn’t until years later, in 1943, that he discovered the powerful effects of the substance on the human psyche. In the following years, the new interest in psychedelics reached a peak. Early research into treatments with psychedelics showed promising results, and treatments were increasingly applied in psychiatry. However, the research was halted when measures were taken to combat drug use.

Today, psychedelics have made a comeback in science. After a radio silence of over 50 years, psychedelic research is back on the global scientific agenda.

Psychedelic truffles are legally available for purchase in shops in the Netherlands. Truffles contain the same active substances (alkaloids) as magic mushrooms: psilocybin. It is known for its mild to powerful hallucinogenic effects with colorful visions. Psilocybin is often chosen for its psychological benefits, including the ability to promote deep emotional and spiritual insights. It is frequently used in therapeutic settings to help people increase their sense of connection with themselves and others. A psilocybin trip typically lasts 4 to 6 hours.

Psilocybin truffles provide access to other layers of consciousness, resulting in experiences that are difficult to put into words. Common effects include an altered sense of time and space, more intense colors, smells and sounds, moving geometric patterns, and profound self-reflection. Stronger effects can include reliving of events, strong visual and auditory distortions, and a deep sense of connectedness.

The intensity of the experience depends on the dosage, personal sensitivity, preparation, and the environment in which the truffles are used. The ability to surrender to the experience also plays a crucial role in the depth and value of the experience.

Truffles are generally safe for healthy people, but they are not suitable for everyone. Do you have certain mental or physical health issues, or are you using specific medications? Then psychedelics can be risky or even dangerous for you. The risk lies mainly in potential psychological side effects. People who should avoid truffles:

Those using antidepressants
Those using antipsychotics
Those with a psychiatric condition
Those with a (family) history of psychosis, dissociation
Those with a (family) history of a manic episode
Those with a family member with schizophrenia
Those with a history of epileptic seizures
Those with a history of cardiovascular diseases
Those with high blood pressure / hypertension
During pregnancy or while breastfeeding

In recent years, much research has been done on the effects of psychedelics, such as truffles, on the brain. Imagine your brain as a busy city with different neighborhoods. The Default Mode Network (DMN) is a busy area that is concerned with worrying about the future, the past, and making plans. When you use psychedelics, new connections are made between neighborhoods that normally don’t communicate much. The activity in the DMN decreases, while other parts of the brain communicate more intensively with each other. This causes your brain to function in a new way, with a fresh perspective and improved internal communication. It’s as if you’re building new roads in the city, leading to a renewed perspective on yourself, your life, and the world.

Psychedelics and coaching form a powerful combination that together can contribute to psychological flexibility and personal growth. Coaching focuses on creating a rich and meaningful life that aligns with your deepest values. It offers structure and guidance to achieve your goals and lead a fulfilling life. Psychedelics support this process by enabling the brain to make new connections and break existing patterns. This gives you a refreshing perspective and access to deeper insights. Together, they can help you overcome barriers, increase your self-awareness, and realize lasting change.

Yes, you can have a psychedelic experience on your own, if you are physically and mentally-emotionally healthy. It will be an interesting and enjoyable experience. But preparation is crucial. Ensure a good set and setting, clarify your intentions, and ask a trusted person to be a trip sitter. This helps prevent unpleasant experiences.

From FLO coaching, we have written a free e-book. With the help of our e-book, you can prepare well for a (first) psychedelic experience.

A guided psychedelic experience offers additional benefits, such as a safe environment and complete care. During a coaching trajectory, you can dive deeper into your experience and gain more insights. The focus on integration helps you to realize lasting changes in your daily life. Such an experience is a valuable investment in your personal growth and development.