According to anecdotal evidence, research, and a long, rich tradition of ceremonial use, psychedelics have the potential to elicit spiritual experiences. Accounts of psychedelic-induced spirituality range from plant medicine ceremonies with substances like ayahuasca, peyote, or psilocybin mushrooms, to scientific research looking at instances of mysticism among those who have taken substances like synthetic psilocybin or LSD. In some cases, it’s been found that accounts of psychedelic-induced spirituality share much in common with accounts of mysticism throughout the ages, spanning world religions. Throughout history, members of some religions have combined psychedelic use with religious ritual.
Spirituality
Things to Know
- In some cases, psychedelics are referred to as entheogens, referring to substances that elicit spiritual experiences
- Psychedelics are known for helping a person feel more connected to the divine, a transcendent consciousness, or something beyond themselves
- The tenets of the “mystical experience” include a sense of oneness, transcendence of time and space, deeply felt positive mood, sense of awe, and in some cases, ego death
LSD and Spirituality
Taking LSD can lead to a mystical experience or feelings of heightened spirituality.
Read about LSD and spirituality.Psilocybin Mushrooms and Spirituality
Magic mushrooms have been used for the purpose of connecting with the divine by people across the world throughout history.
Read about psilocybin mushrooms and spirituality.
