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

Blog Archive
Samira Ghofrani

Why Was Early Psychedelic Research Abandoned?

In the mid-20th century, psychedelics showed immense promise in treating mental health conditions like alcoholism and anxiety. Despite early optimism, research was abandoned due to regulatory hurdles, negative media portrayals, and scientific limitations. Wayne Hall’s analysis offers a nuanced view, revealing how a mix of societal, scientific, and policy factors, rather than solely the “War on Drugs,” led to the decline of psychedelic research.

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Samira Ghofrani 18 January 2025
Samira Ghofrani

The Link Between Psilocybin and Emotional Empathy

New research reveals that psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, can significantly boost emotional empathy in patients with depression, measured until two weeks post-treatment. This enhancement, specifically toward positive emotions, could transform therapeutic approaches and improve social functioning for those struggling with depression.

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Samira Ghofrani 3 January 2025
Samira Ghofrani

The Potential of Psychedelics in Reducing Suicidality Among Marginalised Women

A groundbreaking study found that marginalised women with a history of psychedelic use had a 60% reduced hazard of suicidality compared to others. Highlighting both the therapeutic potential of psychedelics and the risks from trauma and substance use, the findings stress the importance of innovative mental health interventions for at-risk populations.

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Samira Ghofrani 27 December 2024
Samira Ghofrani

Psilocybin as a New Hope for Treating Anorexia Nervosa

Psilocybin could transform the treatment of anorexia nervosa. A recent review highlights its ability to reduce anxiety, improve cognitive flexibility, and enhance motivation to recover in patients with treatment-resistant forms of this disorder. With early trials showing promising results, psilocybin may offer a groundbreaking alternative to conventional therapies.

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Samira Ghofrani 20 December 2024
Samira Ghofrani

Navigating the Challenges of Psychedelic Experiences

This study highlights the potential of psychedelic experiences to catalyse major life changes across personal, spiritual, and professional domains. Researchers found that 83% of participants reported significant shifts in values, goals, or relationships, largely viewed as positive. The findings underscore the transformative potential of psychedelics, suggesting a need for more nuanced discussions in therapy and research.

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Samira Ghofrani 13 December 2024
Samira Ghofrani

Transformative Life Changes Through Psychedelics

This study highlights the potential of psychedelic experiences to catalyse major life changes across personal, spiritual, and professional domains. Researchers found that 83% of participants reported significant shifts in values, goals, or relationships, largely viewed as positive. The findings underscore the transformative potential of psychedelics, suggesting a need for more nuanced discussions in therapy and research.

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Samira Ghofrani 6 December 2024
Samira Ghofrani

Ayahuasca: Healing Addiction Through Ritual and Community

Discover how the traditional Amazonian brew ayahuasca is transforming addiction recovery. By intertwining its pharmacological effects with ritual and community support, ayahuasca ceremonies create a holistic healing environment, fostering emotional catharsis, spiritual growth, and lasting sobriety.

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Samira Ghofrani 1 December 2024
Samira Ghofrani

Psychedelic Micro-dosing for Mental Health

Microdosing psychedelics like psilocybin may improve mental health. Researchers found that microdosers are motivated by health and wellness benefits, with lower substance use and higher mindfulness compared to non-microdosers. While promising trends were discovered, these findings highlight the need for rigorous research to ensure safety and efficacy.

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Samira Ghofrani 23 November 2024
Samira Ghofrani

Psilocybin Therapy: A New Hope for Fibromyalgia Sufferers

A pioneering study explored psilocybin-assisted therapy as a potential breakthrough for fibromyalgia sufferers. The trial reports significant pain reduction, better sleep, and emotional benefits, all achieved through two guided psilocybin sessions. Participants described transformative experiences that led to deep psychological insights and greater acceptance of their condition. While safety concerns were minimal, more research is needed to confirm these promising results. This therapy could offer new hope for people with limited options for chronic pain management.

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Samira Ghofrani 15 November 2024
Samira Ghofrani

Psychedelic Journeys and Psychological Flexibility

Ketamine is making waves as an antidepressant, but new research shows it may also slow cellular aging. This study reveals that a short course of ketamine infusions reduced both depression and PTSD symptoms and lowered participants’ biological age. By tracking DNA changes, researchers uncovered promising epigenetic effects, particularly with OMICmAge biomarkers, which may open doors for treating mental health and aging together.

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Samira Ghofrani 8 November 2024
Samira Ghofrani

Exploring Ketamine’s Effects on Depression, PTSD, and Biological Ageing: New Insights from Epigenetics

Ketamine is making waves as an antidepressant, but new research shows it may also slow cellular aging. This study reveals that a short course of ketamine infusions reduced both depression and PTSD symptoms and lowered participants’ biological age. By tracking DNA changes, researchers uncovered promising epigenetic effects, particularly with OMICmAge biomarkers, which may open doors for treating mental health and aging together.

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Samira Ghofrani 1 November 2024
Samira Ghofrani

Eploring Psychedelic Experiences in Autistic Adults

This study examined the impact of psychedelic experiences on mental health and social engagement among autistic adults. With promising results from a single impactful experience, the study highlights perceived reductions in anxiety and increases in social connections. These findings indicate new possibilities for addressing mental health and social challenges faced by the autistic community, though cautious interpretation and additional research are warranted.

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Samira Ghofrani 25 October 2024
Samira Ghofrani

Exploring Psychedelic “God” Encounters

This study compares naturally occurring and psychedelic-induced “God encounter” experiences, revealing similarities and key differences between spiritual moments facilitated by psilocybin, LSD, ayahuasca, or DMT. The research shows that both types of experiences have profound long-term impacts, often leading to positive life changes in meaning and purpose.

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Samira Ghofrani 18 October 2024
Samira Ghofrani

The Science Behind Psychedelic “Peak” Experiences

This study delves into the role of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) during DMT-induced peak experiences. By examining how the body’s stress (sympathetic) and relaxation (parasympathetic) systems work in harmony, researchers discovered that this balance predicts the intensity of the spiritual and insightful experiences people report. The findings suggest that a person’s state before a psychedelic session could influence the likelihood of profound, transformative experiences, ultimately leading to greater well-being in the weeks following the experience.

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Samira Ghofrani 4 October 2024
Samira Ghofrani

How Psychedelics Can Enhance Meditation

This study explores whether psychedelics can enhance meditation practice, revealing that regular use, intention-setting, and specific psychedelics like N,N-DMT positively influence meditation for many users. The findings suggest a synergy between these practices, with psychedelics helping to deepen mindfulness, acceptance, and cognitive flexibility in meditation. While promising, these insights highlight the need for more research on the long-term effects and potential risks of combining psychedelics and meditation.

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Samira Ghofrani 27 September 2024
Samira Ghofrani

Letting Go of Control and Embracing the Journey

This study explores the experiences of patients undergoing oral esketamine treatment for treatment-resistant depression. It highlights the importance of preparation, emotional support, and a supportive setting, showing how these factors help patients manage the intense psychoactive effects and improve treatment outcomes.

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Samira Ghofrani 20 September 2024
Samira Ghofrani

How LSD Interacts with our Mind and Body

This study uncovers how both pharmacological (e.g., LSD dose) and non-pharmacological (e.g., mood, personality) factors shape the LSD experience. By exploring how personal traits and current mood impact the intensity of psychedelic experiences, this research holds important implications for psychedelic-assisted therapies.

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Samira Ghofrani 13 September 2024
Samira Ghofrani

Exploring Entheogenic Experiences and Spirituality

A recent study explored the spiritual dimensions of entheogenic experiences, finding two main types: mystical experiences and those centred on insights, connection, and positive feelings. These findings offer a nuanced understanding of how psychedelics can facilitate spiritual growth, offering both intense mystical states and more subtle personal transformations. This has implications for individuals seeking spiritual development through psychedelic retreats.

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Samira Ghofrani 6 September 2024
Samira Ghofrani

The Role of Mental States on Psychedelic Experiences

This study delves into how mental states before and during psilocybin use can predict the nature of psychedelic experiences. The research shows that a state of surrender may enhance positive outcomes, while preoccupation with daily concerns may lead to adverse effects. These findings offer valuable insights for psychedelic therapy, emphasising the importance of mental preparation.

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Samira Ghofrani 30 August 2024
Samira Ghofrani

The Future of MDMA-Assisted Therapy in Europe

The integration of MDMA-assisted therapy (MDMA-AT) in Europe represents a promising but complex development in mental healthcare. This study explored key insights from experts on the regulatory, training, and ethical challenges that need to be addressed to bring this innovative treatment for PTSD to patients.

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Samira Ghofrani 23 August 2024
Samira Ghofrani

The Potential of Ayahuasca in Grief Therapy

This study explores the potential of ayahuasca as a therapeutic tool for grief. Comparing its effects to peer-support groups, the research highlights ayahuasca’s unique ability to reduce grief intensity, facilitate emotional release, and even foster a sense of connection with the deceased, offering a profound healing experience.

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Samira Ghofrani 16 August 2024
Samira Ghofrani

Exploring Psilocybin-Assisted Psychotherapy in Canada

This study examined the experiences of Canadians receiving compassionate access to psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy. Significant reductions in anxiety and depression, along with improvements in quality of life and spiritual well-being, were observed, indicating the potential benefits of psilocybin for patients with severe illnesses.

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Samira Ghofrani 2 August 2024
Samira Ghofrani

The Role of Music in Psychedelic Therapy

This study explores how music influences the therapeutic outcomes of psychedelic therapy using psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression. It explored the impacts of music on patients’ experiences, emphasising its role in enhancing emotions, providing guidance, and promoting openness to challenging experiences.

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Samira Ghofrani 26 July 2024
Samira Ghofrani

MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy on Sleep Quality

This study explores the impact of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy on sleep quality in PTSD patients, showing significant improvements in both sleep and PTSD symptoms. These findings highlight a promising new approach to treating PTSD by addressing one of its most persistent and debilitating symptoms.

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Samira Ghofrani 19 July 2024