Integration

Figure 1. Psychedelics differ in how long they induce a social reward learning period

Integration is the neuroplastic period that immediately proceeds the psychedelic experience. The length of this period varies depending on which psychedelic is taken (Figure 1). It is seen as a closing window of opportunity to remove anchored, old habits and integrate new thought patterns into the software of the brain. Better clinical outcomes (see Figure 2) can be achieved by augmenting this time using:

• Guided psychedelic therapy - by using an accredited therapist.
• Integration groups - by using community based support.
• Nature exposure - a wide range of health benefits are associated with exposure to nature.
• Breathing techniques - cyclic sighing, which emphasises prolonged exhalations has been shown to enhance mood and reduce physiological arousal.
• Meditation
• Mindfulness

Figure 2. Psychedelic Integration Best Practice

Controlled Information Intake

You should be diligent with regards to the content you consume before, during and after a psychedelic journey. The things we watch on the Internet, streaming services and TV, as well as the music we listen to, all have an effect on our subconscious conditioning. Consuming content that is “low vibration” (or we can describe it as vulgar, violent, exploitative, etc. for people who aren’t into spirituality) will negatively impact our ability to heal and integrate our experiences in a beneficial way. A lot of the content out there these days is degenerate and damages our psyche on a subconscious level. When we consume psychedelics, we are especially sensitive to these kinds of things. We don’t want negative energy from media outlets to filter into our lives when we are trying to use plant medicines to grow, heal and learn.

Here are some recommendations I have with regards to this. I would recommend following these to the best of your ability for at least one week prior, during and one week after your trip. Ideally, you should try to follow these all the time regardless of whether you take psychedelics or not, but it is even more important surrounding the time of a journey.

• Limit your time on social media or stay off of it completely.
• Don’t watch the news, especially mainstream outlets like CNN, MSNBC, Fox, etc. (This isn’t a political stance. It doesn’t matter what your political views are.)
• Don’t watch any videos, shows or movies that contain excessive violence, vulgar language, horrors / thrillers, etc.)
• Don’t watch pornography. (I would recommend permanently quitting this if you can.)
• Don’t listen to dark, heavy or vulgar music (i.e certain types of rap, heavy metal, etc.)
• Don’t spend time around people who gossip or talk a lot of shit.

Basically, you want to clear your mind of all negative energy as much as possible. It is important that you make conscious and intentional decisions with regards to what enters your field of consciousness. Obviously, we can’t control everything, but there is a lot we can do to optimize this in our lives. Please share your thoughts on this below.

References