Mindfulness & meditation

Meditation and other mindfulness techniques are also popular ways to integrate. A recent clinical trial out of Johns Hopkins showed that people who were taught how to mediate during their course of psychedelic-assisted therapy had the most beneficial experiences compared to groups who only received standard support.

There are lots of different meditation techniques that you can find online, and you can even find guided meditations on YouTube. But for a simple start, the Psychedelic Times recommends sitting somewhere comfortable for just five minutes to begin, and focus on your breath. When thoughts come, acknowledge them and try to let them go (meaning, do not attach to the thought). The same applies to any physical aches or pains; acknowledge, then let go, like releasing a balloon and watching it disappear into the horizon. Once you get comfortable doing this for five minutes, try it for ten, and even set a timer if it helps. The important thing is to sit quietly with yourself and notice your breath, and then take it from there.

This kind of practice can help you come to new insights regarding your psychedelic experience or ways to apply lessons you've already received. Because a strong mushroom trip can open you up to new ways of thinking about yourself, a meditation practice can help keep you mindful of your behavior and intentions on a regular basis. If you're actively engaging in mindfulness, it'll be easier to catch yourself acting out of balance with the realizations you had on your journey.

**Excerpt From Your Psilocybin Mushroom Companion, by Michelle Janikian