Tips for the First-Time Shroomer

Psychedelics have potential to be, without a doubt, one of the most intense and intimate personal experiences one can have. Every psilocybin-containing mushroom has within it the power to open the mind of the user to a realm of bliss and infinite possibilities, or equally so to shatter one’s world along with all they think they know. This is not to be taken lightly. Regardless of the reason (or lack thereof) for experimenting if one so chooses, these substances definitely demand respect and deserve to be treated with such, even if you just want to “trip balls.”

I know many people don’t like being told what to do, and this isn’t that, this is just a “keep in mind” list. Bad trips suck terribly, and wasted doses are saddening. This is mainly about preventing the negative and making the best out of the experience. Be mindful, and enjoy the trip.

Headspace

You should always be aware of your mental and emotional state. Do NOT undergo a psychedelic trip of any sort while in a negative space. Although debatably bad trips can be more of a learning experience than good ones in the idea that they are more effective in getting a message across, way more often than not, it isn’t worth it to put yourself in that kind of mental distress if you don’t need to.

In very low doses, most people tend to be able to handle themselves, but in the moderate-to-high dose range this is a red flag. This is because psychedelics expand on how you feel at the time, rather than altering your mood all together. While light doses are pretty easy to navigate through, even to a beginner, the heavier the dose, the less control you would actually have.

(Think of the difference between moving in a pool with water at waist level vs. moving through quicksand at chest level.)

I have personally, on more than one occasion, taken trips in bad mental states; let’s just say I’ve gotten the pleasure of getting stuck in my own personally customized version of Hell. On the other hand, in better moods, I’ve been able to see some of the most exhilarating and beautiful places I never knew existed. I guess it depends on what you’re chasing…

Headspace

You have to set the mood as you would like it. Don’t be naïve in your surroundings. If you’re in a location you feel deep down that you might be unsure about, don’t take that chance. Be somewhere you’re comfortable at. In the same context, make sure you’re around people with good energy when you trip. Play your all-time favorite music and vibe out, start painting a picture, and do some creative writing, or really anything you love that zones you out and that you can safely do and enjoy.

I find it comforting too, either in person or via other means of communication, to have someone on standby that I have a bond with. That exchange of energy with someone you’re connected to, while in a “psyched” state, is incredible. There’s next to nothing like it. This can be a close friend, relative, or significant other ideally — whoever you’re comfortable with.

• If you have Intentions, make them clear beforehand.

In my subjective experiences, whatever I have my mind fixed on going into a trip usually becomes the central theme at some point. What you end up experiencing depends mainly on your set (where you are mentally at this point in time), your setting (where you physically are), your intention (what you expect of the journey), and your current understanding in the things your mind is fixed on (or just life in general). If you have a part of your mind or life that you wish to explore and dive deeper into, keep it in mind before and during. Let your intentions take you to those places.

My first real trip was relatively in the peak of my exploration of Buddhism, theology, and philosophy. I gave the mushrooms a decent-sized canvas in my brain to paint with it whatever they may, and they did not let me down. It was so beautiful... *wipes single falling tear*

Ask the questions you wish to know, and if you can stand to, get your brain in the right state before you experiment. It makes a huge difference.

Go with it, not against it.

You signed up for it, you asked for this, so do not fight your experience. The smoothest part of the ride starts when you allow yourself to relax, let go of trying to control things, and just surrender to what you’re being shown. Many frightening episodes happen when one tries to force their will on the situation, and I guarantee, if it gets to the point that you feel you need to, it is probably the worse time for you to try to. At most, if needed, try to influence your headspace to redirect itself. Steer it toward a better direction instead.

The goal is ultimately to have the best time and or learning experience possible. Have your decision-making process be guided on that. I recommend practicing and getting at least decent at clearing your mind before experimenting. Things can get overwhelming at times; meditation, trip sitters, grounding items/people or even just breathing can help avoid a bad turn. Try to do some research on anything you intend to take beforehand, and keep these tips in mind if you can...

Learn yourself, learn your substance, and have a good time.

… And remember,

“Take it easy, dude, but take it.” – A wise man