Sarah Brown
Magic mushrooms, or shrooms, have been used by humans for thousands of years, from ancient civilisations to hippies in the 1950s and 1970s. In recent years, they have been studied for their potential as boosters of mental health and their ability to help couples work through challenges of intimacy and communication. The psychedelic compound in magic mushrooms, psilocybin, can induce ego dissolution, breaking down the normal sense of self and replacing it with a sense of reconnection to oneself, others, and nature. This can lead to a feeling of transcendence and unity, improving communication and emotional expression. Some couples have reported that using magic mushrooms together has helped them grow closer and confront emotional wounds. However, it is important to note that bad trips can happen, and the issue of consent becomes more complex when sex is involved.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Used for | Relationship therapy, mental health treatment, spiritual expansion, and sexual enhancement |
| Benefits | Improved communication, increased emotional expression, enhanced ability to have deep conversations, feelings of transcendence and unity, improved connection with others and the world, acceptance of emotion, improved intimacy, increased self-awareness, ego dissolution, liberation, enhanced sexual pleasure |
| Risks | Bad trips, hallucinations, danger to self or others, disorientation, loss of consent |
| Dosage | 1.5-3.5 grams of dried mushrooms, 3 grams during initial session, micro-doses (0.4 grams) |
| Legality | Illegal in the US, legal in Jamaica |
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What You'll Learn
Magic mushrooms as relationship therapy
Magic mushrooms, or funghi, have been used by humans for thousands of years. Ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and the Aztecs held ritualized encounters with the psychedelic growths, and in more recent times, hippies in the 1950s and 1970s embraced them for spiritual expansion. Now, some couples are turning to magic mushrooms as a form of relationship therapy.
The Benefits
Psychedelics like magic mushrooms can help couples work through challenges of intimacy and communication. The experience can lead to a feeling of transcendence and unity, as individuals report a lessening of boundaries between themselves and others. This is supported by Dr. Carhartt-Harris, Head of Psychedelic Research at Imperial College, who states that the temporary "ego dissolution" that occurs during a psychedelic experience leads to a "re-connection with themselves, others and the natural world".
Couples who have used magic mushrooms in a therapeutic context report that their partners were more open, better able to express emotion, and more willing to have deep conversations after the experience. One couple, Fern and Connor, describe how they set aside time to trip on mushrooms, focusing on introspection during the experience, and then having long, emotional conversations afterward. They also noted that the clarity they felt the next day helped them to make plans and solve issues.
Considerations
While magic mushrooms can lead to positive therapeutic outcomes, it is important to approach the experience with caution. A 2016 survey by Johns Hopkins researchers found that 10% of people who had bad experiences with psilocybin mushrooms felt their "bad trip" put themselves or others in danger. Furthermore, the issue of consent becomes more complex when psychedelics are involved. As Brad Burge, the director of strategic communications for the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, notes, it is legally questionable whether consent can be given by someone who is under the influence of psychedelics.
Magic mushrooms have the potential to be a powerful tool for relationship therapy, but it is not a simple solution. As with any form of therapy, work and integration are required to implement changes and solve issues. However, with the right approach and intention, magic mushrooms can help couples to grow closer and improve their communication and intimacy.
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The experience of having sex on mushrooms
Magic mushrooms have been used by humans for thousands of years, from ancient civilizations to hippies in the 1950s and 1970s, and more recently as a potential booster for mental health. The experience of having sex while on mushrooms is often described as "transcendent", with an enhanced sense of touch and emotional connection.
The Physical Experience
Psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, is a vasoconstrictor, which means it can make it more difficult for some people to maintain an erection. However, it can also lead to longer-lasting sexual experiences. The physical sensations of sex are amplified, with an increased sensitivity to touch.
The Emotional Experience
The emotional experience of having sex on mushrooms can be intense, with a heightened sense of connection and intimacy. People often describe a feeling of transcendence and unity, as if the boundaries between themselves and their partner have dissolved. This can lead to a deeper level of emotional intimacy and vulnerability.
> "Time slowed down and we could appreciate all the little moments of sex like we never could before. While we were inside each other, an iridescent fractal pattern would emerge."
> —Judas Kane, a self-professed Atlanta-based hedonist
The Spiritual Experience
Mushrooms can induce a sense of "ego dissolution", where the normal sense of self is broken down and replaced by a feeling of reconnection with oneself, others, and nature. This can lead to a sense of spiritual enlightenment and a heightened awareness of the present moment.
> "It was like the entire universe became her lips, and the closeness of her body, even through our rain jackets, was incredibly stimulating. I knew that I loved her in that instant, and I'd never felt so connected to someone."
> —Colin, a musician in California
Considerations and Cautions
While the experience of having sex on mushrooms can be positive and transformative, it is important to approach it with caution and awareness. It is essential to discuss intentions, boundaries, and consent before taking mushrooms, as the experience can be intense and overwhelming. Bad trips can happen, and it is important to be prepared and informed. Additionally, it is worth noting that legally, one cannot give consent while under the influence of psychedelics. Furthermore, while some studies suggest that psychedelic experiences may improve sexual function, these studies have limitations and careful safeguards are necessary, especially for individuals with mental health concerns.
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The mental health benefits of mushroom retreats
Magic mushrooms have been a part of human culture for thousands of years, with ancient civilizations from the Egyptians to the Aztecs having ritualized encounters with the psychedelic growths. In the 1950s and early '70s, hippies embraced mushrooms for spiritual expansion, and in recent years, they have been studied for their potential to boost mental health.
The active compound in magic mushrooms, psilocybin, can induce a temporary "ego dissolution", breaking down the normal sense of self and replacing it with a sense of reconnection to oneself, others, and nature. This can help individuals confront difficult thoughts and feelings, improving their ability to connect with others and process their emotions.
A week-long mushroom retreat may involve three sessions with gradually increasing doses of psilocybin. While the health benefits of such retreats are still debated, some participants have reported transformative experiences, with long-term depression symptoms finding relief.
Mushroom retreats can also be a couples' therapy experience, helping partners work through intimacy and communication challenges. By taking mushrooms together, couples can explore their relationship from a different perspective, fostering a deeper connection and understanding of each other.
Overall, while the use of magic mushrooms remains controversial, with ""bad trips" being a potential risk, mushroom retreats show promise as a therapeutic tool for individuals and couples seeking mental health benefits and improved relational intimacy.
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The history of magic mushrooms in human culture
Magic mushrooms, or psilocybin mushrooms, have played a significant role in human culture since ancient times. While the earliest evidence of their use is uncertain, some historians suggest that North African and European cave paintings from around 9000 BC may depict the use of magic mushrooms. Similarly, prehistoric rock art near Villar del Humo in Spain suggests that Psilocybe hispanica, a hallucinogenic mushroom species, was used in religious rituals about 6,000 years ago.
In Mesoamerica, magic mushrooms were consumed in spiritual and divinatory ceremonies before being documented by Spanish chroniclers in the 16th century. The native peoples of Mesoamerica, including the Aztecs and Mayans, used mushrooms in religious, divinatory, and healing practices. The Aztecs referred to the mushrooms as "teonanácatl", meaning "divine mushroom", while the Mayans created "mushroom stones" found in Guatemala.
Magic mushrooms were also used in other ancient civilisations, including in Siberia, where indigenous tribes consumed Amanita Muscaria mushrooms, and in Ancient Greece, where they were used in secret rituals worshipping the goddess Demeter.
In the 20th century, magic mushrooms gained popularity in the United States, with R. Gordon Wasson, a banker and amateur ethnomycologist, playing a significant role in their spread. After experiencing psychedelic visions during rituals in a Mazatec village in Mexico, Wasson wrote about his experiences in a 1957 article published in Life magazine. This inspired Timothy Leary, a counterculture and psychedelia icon, to found the Harvard Psilocybin Project with Dr. Richard Alpert, conducting experiments to explore the potential of psilocybin to solve emotional issues in humans. However, their methods were controversial, and they were eventually dismissed.
Despite the increasing popularity of psychedelics in the counterculture movement of the 1960s, the restrictive drug laws of the 1970s curbed scientific research into psilocybin. Magic mushrooms were made illegal in the United States in 1970, but their use continued, with the publication of the "Psilocybin: Magic Mushroom Grower's Guide" in 1976 contributing to their persistence as a staple.
In recent years, there has been a push for decriminalisation and the exploration of medicinal uses. In 2018, researchers at Johns Hopkins University confirmed the therapeutic potential of magic mushrooms in treating conditions such as PTSD, depression, and anxiety. This led to the decriminalisation of magic mushrooms in Denver, Colorado, in 2019, marking a significant step towards recognising the potential benefits of these mushrooms in human culture.
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The challenges of intimacy and communication
A "mushroom partner" is a term used to describe a person who is kept in the dark and fed a steady diet of nonsense, often in a romantic relationship context. It refers to a dynamic where one partner withholds information, lies, or provides misleading or confusing messages to the other, who is left in the dark, much like mushrooms are grown in the dark. This metaphor highlights an unhealthy relationship dynamic where one person has more power and control, intentionally or not, over the other, creating an imbalanced and unhealthy situation.
Now, let's discuss the challenges of intimacy and communication in the context of a "mushroom partner" relationship dynamic:
Intimacy and communication are fundamental aspects of healthy, fulfilling relationships. However, in a "mushroom partner" dynamic, these essential elements are often compromised, leading to a range of challenges. One of the primary issues is the lack of transparency and honesty. When one partner is kept in the dark, it becomes difficult to establish a deep and meaningful connection based on trust and mutual understanding. Effective communication is key to resolving conflicts, navigating challenges, and strengthening the bond between partners. However, in a "mushroom partner" situation, open and honest communication may be lacking. The partner who withholds information may do so intentionally or unintentionally, creating an environment of secrecy and confusion. This can lead to the other partner feeling confused, insecure, and uncertain about the relationship, hindering their ability to fully open up and be vulnerable.
Additionally, the imbalance of power and knowledge in this dynamic can create a sense of control and manipulation. The partner with more information or power may use it to their advantage, knowingly or unknowingly, which can lead to emotional manipulation and further strain the relationship. This dynamic can also foster an environment of resentment and mistrust. The partner who is kept in the dark may start to feel resentful and frustrated, especially if they sense that their partner is intentionally withholding information or being dishonest. This can erode the foundation of trust that is crucial for a healthy, intimate connection.
Furthermore, the lack of intimacy and honest communication can impact the emotional connection between partners. Intimacy is not just physical but also involves emotional vulnerability and sharing. When one partner feels they cannot fully express themselves or share their thoughts and feelings due to the other's lack of transparency, it becomes challenging to build a deep emotional bond. Over time, this can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness within the relationship, even though the couple may still be together.
To overcome these challenges, it is crucial for couples in this dynamic to recognize the issues and actively work towards creating a more balanced and honest relationship. Open and honest communication, mutual respect, and a willingness to understand each other's perspectives are essential steps toward fostering intimacy and strengthening their bond. Seeking professional help through couples' therapy or counseling can also provide valuable tools and guidance to navigate these challenges effectively.
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Frequently asked questions
A mushroom partner is someone who partakes in the use of magic mushrooms with you.
Magic mushrooms are believed to have therapeutic effects on mental health and can help couples work through challenges of intimacy and communication.
Mushrooms can cause ego dissolution, transcendence, and unity, making people more open, able to express emotion, and willing to have deep conversations.
Bad trips can happen, and the psychedelic nature of mushrooms can make consent difficult to navigate. It is important to discuss intentions and boundaries before taking mushrooms with a partner.
It is recommended to set an intention, prepare blankets, soft fabrics, lighting, music, and other comforts, and ensure you have a safe space to trip in.
