This is the library with relevant sources: books, documentaries and websites. We studied all of them but I don’t expect you to do this since it is a vast amount of information. However, around most topics is a link to a blog with a review, summary and short notes.
We encourage you to explore these. It will help you get trust in yourself and in whatever you may encounter. However, or a more comprehensive guide, please check out our full e-book for preparing yourself for a psychedelic experience for growth.
If you want to go deep into the field of psychedelics, read the books from this list. Of many of them, we provide book reviews with the most importantt takeaways so you choose which ones you might want to read first. Or just to save yourself a lot of time.
Aldous Huxley’s book, The Doors of Perception, is important and interesting for several reasons. First, Huxley was a respected author and intellectual who had a deep interest in philosophy, spirituality, and the nature of human consciousness. His ability to articulate his experiences with mescaline in a thoughtful and nuanced way helped to legitimize the use of psychedelics as a tool for exploring consciousness and expanding one’s perspective.
Second, Huxley’s background and reputation lent credibility to the growing counterculture movement of the 1950s and 1960s, which was increasingly interested in exploring altered states of consciousness through drugs like LSD and psilocybin. Huxley’s writings helped to popularize these ideas and sparked a broader cultural conversation about the potential benefits and risks of using psychedelics.
Finally, The Doors of Perception remains an influential and widely-read book today, nearly 70 years after it was first published. Its insights and ideas continue to inspire new generations of thinkers and psychedelic explorers, making it an important contribution to the ongoing conversation about the nature of consciousness and the potential of psychedelics.
Timothy Leary was an American psychologist and writer who became a major figure in the counterculture movement of the 1960s. He is perhaps best known for his advocacy of the use of psychedelic drugs like LSD, which he believed had the potential to revolutionize human consciousness and bring about a more enlightened society.
Leary wrote The Psychedelic Experience along with Richard Alpert (later known as Ram Dass) and Ralph Metzner as a guide to help people navigate their way through the psychedelic experience. The book is based on the authors’ own experiences with LSD and other psychedelic substances, as well as their knowledge of Eastern spiritual traditions, particularly the Tibetan Book of the Dead.
In the book, Leary and his co-authors provide practical advice and philosophical guidance for those who are interested in using psychedelics as a tool for self-exploration and personal growth. The Psychedelic Experience has become a classic text in the field of psychedelic studies, and continues to be widely read and influential today.
Decomposing The Shadow: Lessons From The Psilocybin Mushroom by James W. Jesso is a valuable resource for anyone interested in exploring the transformative potential of psychedelics for personal growth and healing. The book provides an in-depth and nuanced exploration of the concept of the “shadow” – the repressed and unconscious aspects of our psyche that can hold us back in life. Jesso draws on his own experiences with psychedelic substances, as well as insights from psychology, spirituality, and other fields, to offer practical guidance on how to use these substances in a safe and intentional way to address and integrate our shadow aspects. The book is well-written and engaging, and includes exercises and practices to help readers deepen their understanding and experience of the material. Overall, “Decomposing the Shadow” is an excellent resource for anyone seeking to explore the potential of psychedelics for personal growth and transformation.
“How to Change Your Mind” by Michael Pollan is a comprehensive and well-researched book that explores the history, science, and therapeutic potential of psychedelic substances. It is particularly useful for those who are considering trying psychedelics for the first time, as it provides a balanced and informative overview of the potential benefits and risks associated with their use. Pollan’s writing is engaging and accessible, making complex scientific concepts easy to understand for the layperson. Additionally, the book includes personal anecdotes from Pollan’s own experiences with psychedelics, which add a relatable and human touch to the topic. Overall, “How to Change Your Mind” is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the fascinating and rapidly-evolving field of psychedelic research and therapy.
James Fadiman’s book, The Psychedelic Explorer’s Guide is packed with practical advice and insights from experienced psychonauts that can help you prepare for and navigate your trip. Fadiman covers everything from setting intentions and choosing the right environment to managing difficult emotions and integrating the experience into your life. He also includes detailed information on different types of psychedelics, dosages, and potential risks and benefits. Whether you’re a first-time tripper or a seasoned veteran, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the inner depths of the mind.
Some of the most interesting podcasts, documentaries and websites surrounding psychedelics.
Erowid.org is a popular online resource that provides information about psychoactive substances, including psychedelics, through user-generated content and reviews. It offers a wealth of information on a wide range of substances, including their effects, dosage, potential risks and benefits, as well as tips for safe use. Erowid can be a valuable resource for first-time psychedelic tryers as it offers insights and perspectives from people who have had personal experiences with the substance. It can help users understand what to expect from a psychedelic experience, and provide tips for minimizing potential risks and maximizing benefits. Additionally, Erowid offers harm reduction resources and information on how to get help if things go wrong.
MAPS (Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies) is a non-profit research and educational organization that works to develop medical, legal, and cultural contexts for people to benefit from the careful uses of psychedelics. MAPS focuses on studying the potential therapeutic applications of psychedelics, particularly in treating mental health conditions such as PTSD, depression, and anxiety. The organization also works to promote public education and awareness about the potential benefits of psychedelics, and advocates for their responsible use in safe and supportive settings. MAPS conducts clinical trials and research studies on psychedelics, collaborates with healthcare professionals and other experts in the field, and advocates for policy changes that support further research and access to these substances.
Leary wrote The Psychedelic Experience along with Richard Alpert (later known as Ram Dass) and Ralph Metzner as a guide to help people navigate their way through the psychedelic experience. The book is based on the authors’ own experiences with LSD and other psychedelic substances, as well as their knowledge of Eastern spiritual traditions, particularly the Tibetan Book of the Dead.
In the book, Leary and his co-authors provide practical advice and philosophical guidance for those who are interested in using psychedelics as a tool for self-exploration and personal growth. The Psychedelic Experience has become a classic text in the field of psychedelic studies, and continues to be widely read and influential today.
In his TED Talk, Rick Doblin discusses the potential benefits of using psychedelics as an adjunct to psychotherapy for treating mental health conditions such as PTSD and depression. He highlights the promising results of clinical trials conducted by MAPS (Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies) and other organizations, and discusses the potential role of psychedelics in helping people confront and overcome deep-seated emotional traumas. Doblin also discusses the cultural and political barriers that have hindered research and access to these substances, and advocates for a more open and compassionate approach to understanding their potential benefits. Overall, Doblin’s talk highlights the potential of psychedelics to transform the field of mental health and improve the lives of countless individuals who struggle with debilitating psychological conditions.
Albert Hofmann was a Swiss chemist who discovered the psychoactive properties of LSD in 1943. He accidentally ingested a small amount of LSD during a laboratory experiment and experienced its powerful effects, leading to further research. Hofmann’s discovery sparked new scientific research into the therapeutic potential of psychedelics and a cultural movement centered around their use. He continued to advocate for responsible and respectful use of psychedelics throughout his life and is regarded as a pioneer of psychedelic science.
Hoffman’s insights and experiences offer a unique perspective on the origins of the psychedelic movement and the development of LSD as a psychoactive substance. Hearing about his own personal experiences with LSD and other psychedelics can help demystify the often-misunderstood nature of these substances and provide a more nuanced and informed understanding of their potential effects.
There are several interviews with him on Youtube that are worth watching if you want to know more about the history of and research into psychedelic science from one the most influential researchers himself.
