Keep the Magic Alive: 3 Key Practices for Integration
Ever feel like your dosing practice just doesn’t “stick”? Do you find yourself wishing you could turn your dosing insights into action?
But what is it? How can you practice it to maximize the benefits of your dosing practice?
We’ll unravel all those questions and more, plus give you a few simple practices to start your integration journey.
Interested? Let’s dive in!
What is Integration?
Integration is the process of weaving the insights and revelations from a dosing experience into your day-to-day life.
Without an integration practice, it can be difficult to make sense of the insights dosing unlocks –
And even more difficult to put those insights into action to help you grow and heal.
The ultimate goal? Transforming easily-forgotten epiphanies into long-lasting wisdom.
Integration Practice 1: Meditation
Meditation is a cornerstone integration practice.
It involves focusing your attention in a way that helps you process and accept the insights you’ve gained to deepen your understanding and acceptance of dosing experiences..
Begin by simply sitting quietly and focusing on your breath. Notice the sensations as you breathe in and out.
When thoughts or feelings surface, especially those related to your dosing experience, acknowledge them without judgment and gently return your focus to your breathing.
Lie down comfortably and slowly bring your attention to each part of your body, from your toes to your head.
As you focus on each area, breathe into it, and allow a sense of relaxation to spread. This can be particularly powerful for grounding.
Integration Practice 2: Guided Imagery
Guided imagery uses directed thoughts to guide your imagination toward a relaxed, focused, “flow” state.
This practice can be used post-dose to revisit and reframe experiences from your journey, helping you embed new insights into your growing psyche.
Imagine a place where you feel completely at ease—a quiet forest path or a secluded beach. Picture yourself in your chosen place, feeling safe and relaxed.
Gradually introduce elements from your dosing experiences into this cerebral setting.
Visualize how it interacts with the environment around you and observe how it affects your feelings and thoughts.
Integration Practice 3: Breath Work
Breath work is another powerful tool that can be used before, during and after dosing sessions.
Controlled breathing can help manage the physical and emotional intensity of higher dosing experiences, and help you remain rooted during doses.
Place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly.
Breathe in deeply through your nose and into your diaphragm. Pause when you feel a light “stretch” in your lungs before exhaling.
(Pro Tip: Your belly should rise more than your chest!)
This technique is great for unlocking deep relaxation after dosing.
Breathe in through your nose for 4 seconds. Hold your breath for 7 seconds, and then exhale slowly through your mouth for 8 seconds.
Follow-Up: Sustaining Your Success
As we wrap up this edition of Weekly Mind Watering, remember—integration isn’t just about enhancing the effects of your dosing practice—
It’s about making the profound changes it sparks a lasting part of your life.
So keep exploring, keep integrating, and see how deep the changes can go!
Ready to Learn More?
Watch this TEDx Talk:
"Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy: Bridging Science and Spirituality"
by Charles Lief
