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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

MDMA for Enhancing Social Connection

MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, significantly enhances feelings of social connection, according to a meta-analysis of 27 studies. Researchers found moderate-to-large effects on sociability, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits for multiple conditions.

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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 coexist and foster growth.

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Samira Ghofrani

The Impact of Psychedelics on Personality

Discover the transformative power of psychedelics on personality through a study revealing how these experiences shape us, the role of the setting, and the motivations driving us toward these profound encounters.

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Samira Ghofrani

Breaking Free: Psilocybin for Tobacco Addiction

Explore Matthew W. Johnson’s groundbreaking study on psilocybin as a formidable ally in tobacco addiction treatment. This insightful exploration not only unveils psilocybin’s potential to catalyse smoking cessation but also paves the way for a revolutionary approach to addiction, blending cutting-edge science with profound psychological insights.

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Colourful imagery portraying inside someones head when on psychadelics
Samira Ghofrani

The Role of Expectancy in Psychedelic Research

Unlock the knowledge behind how expectations shape the therapeutic journey in psychedelic research in this eye-opening article. As we traverse the landscape of scientific discovery, uncover the pivotal role that participants’ beliefs and attitudes play in influencing the outcomes of psychedelic trials. This exploration not only highlights the power of the mind but also sheds light on the intricate dance between belief and breakthrough, offering a deeper understanding of these substances’ transformative potential.

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Samira Ghofrani

Matter Over Mind? The Psychedelic Pathway to Beating Pain

Dive into the pioneering research on the use of psychedelics in pain management, where the boundaries between physical and psychological pain relief blur. This insightful exploration reveals how substances once on the fringes of science now promise a new horizon for those suffering from chronic pain, blending the realms of matter and mind to unlock innovative, holistic treatments. Discover the potential for psychedelics to revolutionise pain therapy, offering hope and new possibilities for relief.

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psychedelic integration
Samira Ghofrani

Journeying Beyond Depression: The Path of Psilocybin Therapy

Explore the groundbreaking study that unveils the mystical path of Psilocybin Therapy in treating depression. Discover how profound psychological experiences, such as mystical connections and ego dissolution, play a crucial role in this innovative treatment, offering new hope and insights for those seeking relief from depression.

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psychedelic retreat
Samira Ghofrani

Exploring the Connection Between Psychedelics and our Relationship with Nature

The 2019 study on psychedelics and nature connection offers transformative insights into improving mental health and environmental stewardship. Through tracking individuals before and after psychedelic experiences, results unveiled a significant boost in nature-relatedness that persisted for an extended period post-experience. This shift elevated psychological well-being and hinted at psychedelics’ potential to nurture deeper environmental consciousness. The findings advocate for embracing this within broader mental health and ecological care strategies, proposing a novel approach to healing human and planetary ailments.

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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 consciousness, the healing power of nature, and the boundless potential for personal and collective growth.

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preparedness scale
Dr Christoph Zwolan

Unlocking the Psyche: Introducing the Psychedelic Preparedness Scale

Discover the Psychedelic Preparedness Scale (PPS), a breakthrough tool designed to optimize the safety and effectiveness of psychedelic experiences. Developed through collaborative research, the PPS offers a comprehensive measure of an individual’s readiness for psychedelic therapy, emphasizing the importance of preparation in enhancing therapeutic outcomes. This innovative scale opens new avenues for personalized and safer psychedelic practices, marking a significant advancement in the field.

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psychedelic retreats
Dr Christoph Zwolan

Exploring the Transformative Power of Ayahuasca-Induced Personal Death Experiences

The 2023 study on Ayahuasca-induced Personal Death (APD) experiences reveals their transformative impact on individuals’ attitudes towards life, death, and the environment. Documenting APDs as common yet profound occurrences during ayahuasca ceremonies, the research highlights their association with a deeper acceptance of mortality and a significant increase in environmental concern. These findings suggest APDs not only reshape personal perspectives but also enhance coping strategies, marking a pivotal step in understanding psychedelic experiences’ therapeutic potential.

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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 universe.

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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 us as we navigate the mystical landscapes of the mind, discovering the transformative power of psychedelic experiences within the broader context of transpersonal psychology.

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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 conscious experience.

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Psilocybin retreat
Dr Christoph Zwolan

Psilocybin for Depression and Anxiety: A Path to Transpersonal Healing

In our continuous journey to understand and alleviate the burdens of mental health conditions like depression and anxiety, the exploration of alternative therapies has led to a ground-breaking area of study: the use of psilocybin. Psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms, has recently garnered significant attention in the medical and psychological communities.

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mdma therapy
Danielle Tanner

What is MDMA Therapy?

In recent years, the world of mental health therapy has witnessed the emergence of a revolutionary approach: MDMA Therapy. This in-depth guide delves into the intricacies of MDMA Therapy, unravelling its potential in treating various mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. We’ll explore its legal status in the UK, its effectiveness, and how it differentiates from traditional therapy methods.

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Monika Knitter

Unveiling the Mysteries of Psilocybin

Psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound, has piqued the interest of many in the realms of therapy and personal growth. This blog post delves into the essence of Psilocybin, uncovering its safety in retreat settings, its low toxicity profile, and the profound therapeutic benefits it offers.

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psychedelic assisted therapy
Monika Knitter

Music For Psychedelic Therapy

Embarking on a psychedelic journey can be a deeply transformative experience, and the role of music in this process is often pivotal. In this blog post, we’ll explore the intricate relationship between soundtracks and psychedelic therapy. We’ll delve into why music is a crucial component in these sessions, the types of music that enhance the therapeutic experience, and practical considerations such as the choice between headphones and speakers. Whether you’re a practitioner or a participant in psychedelic therapy, this guide offers valuable insights and advice for creating a profoundly impactful auditory environment.

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DMT entity encounter
Dr Christoph Zwolan

Exploring the Role of Psychotherapy in Psychedelic Treatments for Psychiatric Disorders

The article “Treatment with psychedelics is psychotherapy: beyond reductionism” challenges the conventional view of psychedelic treatments in psychiatry as merely biological interventions. It advocates for recognizing the essential role of psychotherapy, not just as a safety measure, but as a vital component that works in tandem with the biological effects of psychedelics. This approach calls for a holistic understanding of treatment, emphasizing the synergy between mind and substance. It marks a significant shift from reductionist perspectives, highlighting the need for an integrated approach in both research and practice, which considers the complex interplay of psychological and biological factors in therapy.

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As female client shares, therapist makes notes on clipboard
Dr Christoph Zwolan

Exploring New Horizons in Bipolar II Treatment: Psilocybin with Psychotherapy

The study “Single-Dose Synthetic Psilocybin With Psychotherapy for Treatment-Resistant Bipolar Type II Major Depressive Episodes” presents a novel approach in treating Bipolar II disorder. Focusing on patients unresponsive to traditional treatments, it combines a single dose of synthetic psilocybin with psychotherapy. Conducted at Sheppard Pratt Hospital, the trial shows significant improvement in depressive symptoms, as evidenced by the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale. This pioneering research suggests that integrating psychotherapy with psilocybin could be a key to effectively treating complex psychiatric conditions, offering new hope for those with treatment-resistant Bipolar II disorder.

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