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NUMINOUS adj. /ˈnuːmɪnəs/ A term derived from the Latin numen, meaning "arousing spiritual emotion; mysterious or awe-inspiring."

Memories, Dreams, Reflections

Taking inspiration from C.G. Jung’s evocative memoir, this section is a space for personal writings that explore the inner landscapes opened by psychedelics, encounters with the Numinous, and moments of awe, insight, and transformation.

Here, numinauts and guides reflect on their experiences—ceremonial, spontaneous, or everyday—and the questions, images, and shifts in perception that arise. These are stories of remembering and forgetting, of dreams that shape waking life, and of reflections that continue to ripple long after the journey itself.

We welcome contributions in many forms: prose, poetry, photographs, drawings, or other reflective expressions. Whether through words or images, this is a space for offerings that speak from the body, the heart, and the imagination.

psychedelic retreats
Fiona Cooke

Tripping God and Healing

In this raw and intimate account, Fiona reflects on her April 2025 retreat with Numinous Ways—revealing how psychedelics, deep preparation, and communal support helped her confront childhood wounds and break free from a lifetime of smoking.

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nature connection
Neil Spence

Opening the doors of perception

Neil, a numinaut and participant on Numinous Ways retreats, shares a moving reflection on how nature, psychedelics, and deep attention have helped him dissolve the boundaries between self and world.

Drawing on the work of Nan Shepherd and Roger Duncan, Neil explores practices of full-bodied perception—walking, listening, and quieting the mind—as doorways into the living consciousness of the natural world.

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psychedelic retreats
Dr Christoph Zwolan

Dreamtime to Jungle Time: Seeking the Numinous in the Amazon

In January 2025, a small group of us travelled deep into the Peruvian Amazon for a unique kind of journey—one rooted not in tourism, but in respect, learning, and connection. What began with a dream led to ceremony, plant medicine, and meaningful encounters with the Shipibo people. This blog documents that experience—its challenges, beauty, and the seeds it planted for Project Roots, our long-term commitment to honouring indigenous wisdom and the Numinous.

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surrender in psychedelic experience
Sam Bloomfield

The Paradox of Letting Go in Psychedelic Experiences

At a Numinous Ways retreat, Ben is guided by Sam, a facilitator, through the complex tension between control and surrender inherent in psychedelic experiences. While daily life requires control for stability, psychedelic journeys demand letting go to access deep transformative potential. This paradox challenges Ben, as maintaining control can cause anxiety and resistance, yet surrendering without preparation can overwhelm. Through metaphors and dialogue, Sam helps Ben prepare, build trust, and integrate insights, teaching him how both control and surrender can

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Sam Bloomfield

Reflections by the Water: Prelude to a Transformative Journey

In the serene ambiance of Pension Homeland near Amsterdam, Sam, one of our lead facilitators, shares his prelude to a transformative experience. On the threshold of the Numinous Ways retreat, he meditates on the tranquil waters’ edge, contemplating the journey ahead. Sam’s narrative intertwines the anticipation of guiding participants through their psychedelic explorations with reflections on the profound interconnectedness these experiences reveal. This account, rich with anticipation and insight, prepares us for a deep dive into the essence of human

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Monika Knitter

How Psychedelics Alter Our Beliefs

In our quest for deeper understanding and personal transformation, psychedelics have emerged as powerful tools, offering profound insights and altering our perception of reality. Historically revered in various cultures for their spiritual significance, these substances are now gaining recognition in modern society for their potential to catalyse significant shifts in worldview. This blog post delves into the transformative impact of psychedelic experiences, particularly focusing on transpersonal experiences that transcend the ordinary and invite a re-evaluation of our understanding of the

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the transpersonal in psychedelic experience
Dr Christoph Zwolan

The Transpersonal in Psychedelic Experience

Welcome to a journey into the depths of human consciousness, where the realms of transpersonal psychology and psychedelic experiences intertwine. This exploration is not just about the mind; it’s a voyage into the soul, uncovering the profound connections between our innermost selves and the expansive universe around us. In this post, we’ll journey through the historical evolution of transpersonal psychology, its intersection with psychedelic experiences, and how these realms of understanding can lead to profound personal growth and healing. Join

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lucid dreams
Dr Christoph Zwolan

Exploring the Intersections of Lucid Dreams and Psychedelic States: A Journey Through Consciousness

In the realm of human consciousness, few experiences are as mystifying and profound as lucid dreams and psychedelic states. These fascinating states of being have long captivated the minds of philosophers, scientists, and spiritual seekers alike. In this exploration, we embark on a journey to understand the intersections and divergences of these two remarkable phenomena. With a mindset that’s as curious as it is humble, we delve into the depths of our psyche, seeking to unravel the mysteries of our

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