How to prepare for a psilocybin journey is a question I get asked often. And the short answer is that understanding the “set and setting” principles is crucial to ensure a safe and meaningful journey.

Psilocybin, the psychoactive substance found in magic mushrooms, has been used for centuries in various cultures for spiritual, medicinal, and recreational purposes. However, it’s crucial to note that psilocybin is a potent substance that can induce intense and transformative experiences, which can be challenging to navigate without proper preparation and guidance. Let’s take a closer look at the ‘set and setting’ principles.

What is “Set and Setting”?

First things first, let’s define what we mean by “set and setting.” The term was coined by Timothy Leary, a Harvard psychologist who conducted research on the effects of psychedelics in the 1960s. According to Leary, “set” refers to the mindset and emotional state of the person taking the psychedelic substance, while “setting” refers to the physical and social environment in which the substance is taken. In other words, “set and setting” refers to the mental and physical conditions that influence the psychedelic experience.

So, how can we prepare our set and setting for a psilocybin journey? Let’s dive in.

How to Prepare Your “Set” for a Psilocybin Journey

The “set” aspect of a psilocybin journey refers to your mindset and emotional state. To prepare your set, consider the following:

1. Be Mindful of your Mental and Physical State
   It’s essential to be in a good mental and physical state before embarking on a psilocybin journey. Avoid taking psilocybin if you’re feeling anxious, depressed, or mentally unstable. Also, ensure that you’re physically healthy and well-rested before taking the substance.
2. Be Prepared to Face Your Fears
   Psilocybin can induce intense and challenging experiences, such as facing your deepest fears, insecurities, and traumas. It’s essential to be prepared to face whatever comes up during the journey, even if it’s uncomfortable or difficult.
3. Set an Intention
   Setting an intention for your psilocybin journey can help guide your mindset and emotional state during the experience. Your intention could be to gain insight into a specific issue, overcome a fear, or connect with your spirituality.
4. Meditate or Practice Mindfulness
   Meditation and mindfulness practices can help calm your mind and prepare you for the psilocybin journey. Take some time to practice deep breathing, meditation, or any relaxation technique that works for you.

I learned more about psychology in the five hours after taking these mushrooms than in the preceding 15 years of studying and doing research in psychology.
~ Timothy Leary

Preparing Your “Setting” for a Psilocybin Journey

The “setting” aspect of a psilocybin journey refers to the physical and social environment in which you take the substance. To prepare your setting, consider the following:

1. Choose a Safe and Comfortable Environment
   Choose a quiet, clean, and comfortable environment for your psilocybin journey. Ensure that the place is free from distractions and that you have access to a bathroom and water.
2. Set Up a Cosy and Relaxing Space
   Create a cosy and relaxing space for your psilocybin journey. You may want to decorate the space with soft lighting, candles, or incense. Have comfortable pillows and blankets nearby to make yourself feel at ease.
3. Avoid Interruptions
   Make sure you won’t be interrupted during your psilocybin journey. Choose a time when you have no obligations or distractions. It’s essential to give yourself plenty of time to relax, reflect, and integrate the experience afterwards.
4. Choose the Right Company
   It’s crucial to surround yourself with people you trust and feel comfortable with during a psilocybin journey. Avoid being with anyone who makes you feel uneasy or anxious. Also, consider the experience level of those who will be with you. It’s ideal to have someone who is experienced with psychedelics and can offer guidance and support during the experience.
5. Set Safety Guidelines
   Setting safety guidelines is essential for creating a positive set and setting. Make sure that everyone involved in the journey is aware of the potential risks and side effects of psilocybin, and knows how to respond in case of an emergency. It’s also important to set boundaries and guidelines for behaviour during the journey, such as avoiding physical contact or leaving the room without permission.

Is there more to think about?

Absolutely, yes! And this cannot be stressed enough. The dose or amount of psilocybin is a major factor in the type of journey you’ll experience. It’s best to discuss this with your guide in detail, since many factors may determine the dose, such as the strain of mushroom and of course set and setting.

The effects of psilocybin can vary significantly depending on the dosage. A low dose of 0.5-1.5 grams can induce a mild to moderate experience, with effects such as heightened emotions, sensory enhancement, and altered perception of time. A moderate dose of 2-3.5 grams can induce a more intense experience, with effects such as profound introspection, spiritual insights, and visual hallucinations. A high dose of 4-5 grams or more can induce a highly intense and transformative experience, with effects such as ego dissolution, mystical experiences, and a sense of unity with the universe.

It’s worth noting that these little ‘fun-guys’ could become a lot less fun when the dose is incorrect. You can read more about various doses and their effects here »

If you have any questions or would like to learn more, do not hessite to make contact, I’m here to help.