If you’re reading this, chances are you’re planning to set off on your first (guided) psychedelic journey. That’s wonderful! I’m so excited for you to explore this profound terrain within yourself.
As your guide through these liminal lands, I want to share some advice to help your first journey unfold as smoothly and insightfully as possible. My most important piece of advice? Don’t trip alone – make sure you have support.
Finding an experienced guide or trip sitter
Having an experienced trip guide or sitter by your side can offer immense calm and support if challenging moments arise. They know how to steer your trip with effective techniques such as:
- Guiding your breathing or leading you through grounding visualisations when anxiety arises
- Changing the music or atmosphere if it gets too intense
- Offering reassuring, wise words when fear or confusion sets in
- Gently encouraging you to embrace breakthrough moments and insights
One-on-one guidance (like we offer at FLO Coaching) and psychedelic retreats are two of the best places to look for support. Screen anyone thoroughly before journeying with them! Ask about their background, training, number of sessions they’ve guided and their philosophical approach. You want someone you click with and trust.
But if you can’t arrange a professional guide, simply having a sober trip sitter present shows that you take your wellbeing seriously. Choose someone mature, centred and compassionate. Brief them on how to handle possible scenarios. Their energy can anchor you.
Informing your loved ones
Letting loved ones or family know about your plans can make the journey easier. Tell them:
- Your intentions – what you hope to get out of the experience
- The basic details – which substance, dose, location and how long it lasts
- That you might need extra support with processing it afterwards
Ask them to keep an open mind. Explain how these substances are helping people heal at leading universities and institutes around the world. If they’re concerned, listen with empathy. Your conviction can put them at ease.
Having their understanding in advance lets you fully relax into your session without worrying about being judged later. It also allows them to offer informed support.
Creating a safe space
Choose a comfortable, familiar environment for your journey – your room, your back garden or out in nature. Remove hazardous objects like sharp furniture edges or choking hazards. Secure the exits.
Fill the space with items to meet potential needs:
- Water – Stay hydrated!
- Fruit – Nourishment that also grounds you
- Blankets – For chills or building a cosy nest
- Eye mask – For visual calm and to turn your energy inward
- Tissues – In case emotions start to flow
Take care of the basics, like safely storing valuables and silencing phones to minimise distractions.
Making emergency plans
Although psychedelics have a strong safety profile, it’s wise to prepare for a worst-case scenario so you don’t have to worry about it.
Make sure your guide or trip sitter is there, or at the very least someone who knows you’re going on a journey. Decide who you’d turn to first in a crisis – them, a friend, a family member or a medical professional.
That said, only involve emergency services if it’s truly necessary. With most psychedelics, challenging moments can be resolved internally, given the right support. Sitting it out within your setting is ideal.
Feeling prepared with emergency plans allows you to fully immerse yourself in your experience. When your basic needs are taken care of, you can explore the mystical seas freely!
Well, my friend, you now have a solid foundation to launch your psychedelic sailing ship. I can’t wait to hear where this first journey takes you! And don’t forget, I’m here to hold space for you if you need support with the integration when you come back.
