Journey into a Psychedelic Trip
What Are Psychedelics?
Psychedelic substances have been regarded as sacred by indigenous cultures and considered a necessary tool to tap into the collective God-consciousness. From healing the sick to furthering artistic endeavors, the act of hallucinating or envisioning usually facilitates advancement for the seeker. We will take a journey into the history and evolution of hallucinogenics.
Taking a Trip
The many facets of psychedelics range from recreational “tripping” to Shamanic journeying. Opening the gateways of our inner mind and spirit is accomplished through various natural methods as well as synthetically comprised.
“Tripping” as coined by the ‘Hippie’ culture, who partake in mind-altering drugs, can encounter dual realities. The mind is clear and observing but with intensified senses. Vibrant colors, infinite geometry, and sharp imageries are all part of the heightened experience. Typically, comfortable surroundings make or break the trip. A user can perceive euphoria or nightmarish conditions. This all depends on their mood before they go into the journey along with the dosage and quality of the substance. Contemporary mind-altering drugs may include synthetic LSD and ecstasy. Naturally derived psychedelics usually are from orally ingesting small cactus-like, peyote and drinking brews made out of a vine called, ayahuasca and eating or brewing psilocybin mushrooms. Herbs like cannabis and Salvia Divinorum have also been utilized for achieving psychoactive effects.
Usually, the experience with strong hallucinogens lasts 5 to 8 hours but durations have been known to last much longer or shorter. The term “peaking” commonly refers to the middle of the time frame when their trip is the most intense. After the peak, the user finally comes down with a gentle ride until the substance starts clearing out of their system. The drug ingested, be it natural or synthetic, creates a simulated poisoning effect that then alters the brain chemicals. Some people may heave on certain psychedelics which makes them start their experience quicker and deeper.
Good Trip
A “good trip” can be described through so many emotions. Feeling radiant and blissful with intense laughter are just a few keywords that touch on the “high” felt. Merging with the cosmos and sensing transcendence is commonly the final aspiration. Out of body experiences can also take place. The doors are opened up to the higher dimensions of consciousness that are usually unobtainable in our 3rd-dimensional reality. Some participants have claimed to have seen archetypal beings, mythical fairies, elves, and fanciful creatures. There is no telling what a person might hallucinate under these circumstances.
Bad Trip
A “bad trip” can dive into the inner demons in a person willing to let them enter. Usually, the trips start off being of good nature but immediate external or suppressed feelings can surface and create pure dread. Delusional thoughts mixed with anxiety can create fear and panic to the user having a bad trip.
We have always heard the news stories about people jumping out of windows who thought they could fly. This shows the impulsive, delusional side of hallucinating. These people may be in a panic mode or just convinced they are superhuman. Sometimes it is like playing roulette with not really knowing what will ultimately occur during those hours of inebriation. Many people have a buddy system in place to help them through the hours just in case the experience takes a darker turn.
Ancient Journeys
The way of the Shaman is to treat the patient or circumstance through esoteric gateways. The word “shaman” originates from the Evenki word “šamán.” Shamans have been, and still are, practicing across the globe. In many indigenous tribes around the planet, their methods are held in sacred secrets. Only a chosen few are passed down the methods of ancient Shamanism with the knowledge of how to submerge into the patient’s soul and facilitate healing.
The Shaman and sometimes their patient will partake in entheogenic drugs. Occasionally, the ailing person in question will bond with the Shaman through participation on the journey for healing advantages.
Neoshamanism
A contemporary spin on Shamanism is referred to as Neoshamanism. It is a collective belief system for many philosophies. Modern-day shamanism comprises of an eclectic range of beliefs and practices that also involves the use of entheogens. One who practices Neoshamanism attempts to attain altered realities and merge with the spirit world which they achieve alongside using archetypal representation, drumming, and dance. Modern-day ‘sweat lodges’Â are used at retreat centers as a purification ceremony to facilitate the crossing of dimensions.
There is a concern though about the cultural correctness and legitimacy of Neoshamanism. This form of practice is easily “accessible” to contemporary Western spiritual-seekers who may not have been formally trained. Whether it be sacred, traditional, or a more Westernized version, most forms of Shamanism still incorporate the uses of hallucinogens into their practice. This can also create discrepancies regarding the legitimacy of the substances at hand during their ceremonies.
DMT Molecule
Entheogens, like dimethyltryptamine (DMT), that elevate spirit through naturally derived psychedelics, are typically preferred by the Shamanic practice for creating a divine connection. DMT, like most psychedelics, is considered to be neither addictive nor toxic. High doses of DMT produce a hallucinatory state that involves a sense of “another intelligence.” It is said that the chemicals released during the experience are similar to the chemicals freed before death. Through this gateway of closely crossing, but without the act of dying, users can have access to multiple dimensions.
“DMT, The Spirit Molecule”, is a film available on Gaia, that investigates DMT, a naturally occurring psychoactive compound, which exists in humans. The film examines the science and spirituality of the substance and draws the connections between neuroscience, quantum mechanics and human spirituality.
History of LSD
Chemist, Albert Hofmann, synthesized LSD, also called acid, in 1938, in Switzerland, while looking for a blood stimulant. Its hallucinogenic effects were not discovered until 1943 when Hofmann unintentionally consumed LSD. It was later found that a dosage of as little as 25 micrograms (few grains of salt equivalent) it could produce vivid hallucinations.
In the 1960s LSD was popular by those in research and psychology fields, like controversial advocate Timothy Leary. He conducted behavioral experiments with psilocybin, an active ingredient of the fungi. It is said that he encouraged American students to participate with his supply and was later discharged from his teaching profession. He would become an influential leader that revolutionized a counterculture with using mind bending drugs.
Psychedelic Icons
Legendary psychedelic icon, Terence McKenna, shifted the public consciousness regarding hallucinogenics. He was an ethnobotanist, author and a supporter for responsible tripping using plant-derived spiritually enhancing entheogen or psychoactive substances, such as natural occurring DMT, psilocybin mushrooms and ayahuasca. McKenna advocated for the exploration of deepened altered states and suggested that DMT opened the doors into parallel dimensions. He studied shamanic practices of the Bon tradition in Nepal and geared his practices towards divine experiences. Under the influence, he claims to have had encounters with higher dimensional entities, extraterrestrials, faceless “machine” elves, ancestor spirits, and has astral traveled.
Famed visionary artist, Alex Grey, has openly shared his relationship with psychedelics. Grey has publicly described his early experiences. He describes having a revolution in consciousness as well as being unified with the cosmos. His artwork takes the viewer on a journey toward their own divinity and electrified mind. The intentional psychedelic community has embraced his work and consider it as an influential contributor to the multidimensional perspective.
A few great discussions and documentaries with Alex Grey are available through Gaia. Regina Meredith did an interview, Alex on The Art of Humanity, on her show, Conscious Media Network. He discusses his inspiration for his art, his view on the future, and the role of musicians as shamans. Also, Sacred Mysteries presents on Gaia, Artmind, which gives an intimate portrayal of the visionary artist. Mind Shift with Danial Pinchbeck has a great dialogue with this legendary artist that goes into his own view on his work with the facilitation through psychoactive journeying.
Acid Culture
Music has also been influenced by psychoactive substances. In the late 60’s, psychedelic music was starting to be released into hippie culture. Jefferson Airplane released, “White Rabbit” and Jimi Hendrix’s song, “Purple Haze” referenced LSD cryptically.
Music from Pink Floyd’s progressive album, “Ummagumma” infiltrated the tripping scene as well as later in the 80’s release of the famed rock opera, “The Wall”. Surreal images and a tale of a man’s hallucinatory inner struggles between sanity and delusion are depicted. Psychoactive indulgence was brought in the forefront to society through music and film.
Legendary performances at Woodstock and popular traveling bands such as the Grateful Dead, created a revolutionary wave of hippie inspired festivals across the lands keeping the psychedelic musical movement alive for many years.
A newer generation of consciousness exploring listeners gravitated in the 1990’s until present times to trance music. Performers like, Shpongle, transformed the acid culture with electronic DJ sets amid mixed world percussion beats and vocal samples from the famed Terence McKenna. This music modernized the changing times of psychoactive entertainment being played at raves and clubs worldwide. Ecstasy became the psychedelic drug of choice when the rave scene was introduced and the quest for vision seeking sustained.
Exploratory vs. Controversy
Even with all it’s public stigma through the recent decades, experiencing the world of psychoactives is still sought after within the suburbs and inner cities to the jungles of South America. Those who discover psychedelics are usually left with a lasting impression for their lifetime, be it good or bad.
The realities through transcendence on a conscious level are altered forever through the act of taking a mind warping trip. After consumption, perceptions may be heightened. Trailing effects are often lingering. Creativity may be pictured in a whole new light. Our purpose in life perhaps will be met with less self judgment and more clarity. This article is neither meant to condone nor ignore the possibilities of the intelligently derived gifts the universe has left for humanity to discover. It is merely supposed to unlock the history, trends and journey into a psychedelic trip.
About the Author
What is DMT and why is it called "the God molecule"
DMT is a natural substance present in various plants and also in the human body, known for its powerful ability to induce expanded states of consciousness. Its effect has been compared to profound mystical experiences, which has earned it the nickname “the God molecule.”
In this article, we explore what is DMT, how it acts in the body, and why it is associated with the spiritual.
Table of Contents
- What is DMT and how does it act in the human body?
- The link between DMT and the pineal gland
- Link Placeholder
- Effects of DMT on perception and consciousness
- What are the ways DMT is consumed?
- Ayahuasca and DMT: an ancestral connection
- Is it possible to activate DMT naturally?
What is DMT and how does it act in the human body?
DMT, or dimethyltryptamine, is a naturally occurring psychedelic substance with a unique capacity: to facilitate access to non-ordinary realities and expanded states of consciousness. It is found in small amounts in some plants, animals, and also in the human brain. At a chemical level, it belongs to the tryptamine family, and its structure is very similar to serotonin, which explains its deep interaction with the nervous system.
When activated—either naturally or induced—DMT generates highly intense experiences that completely transform the perception of time, the body, and space. If consumed orally, it needs to be combined with enzymatic inhibitors (such as those present in ayahuasca) so that the body does not rapidly degrade it. Once active, it interacts with specific receptors in the brain, opening the door to experiences that many people describe as deeply spiritual and revealing.
What is most fascinating is that the human body produces DMT naturally. Although science is still exploring all its mechanisms, we know that this molecule may be involved in key processes such as dreams, deep meditative states, and near-death experiences. Everything suggests that DMT is a biological tool that allows us to connect with broader dimensions of consciousness.
The link between DMT and the pineal gland
The pineal gland, located at the center of the brain, has been considered since ancient times as a special organ, associated with spiritual perception and inner awakening. Ancestral traditions from different cultures have called it “the third eye” and have linked it to intuitive and transcendental abilities.
Various studies suggest that this gland could be the main source of endogenous DMT in the human body. Although research is ongoing, the presence of the necessary enzymes to synthesize DMT has already been identified in the pineal gland of mammals. This possibility reinforces what many spiritual traditions already intuited: that within the body itself there are natural mechanisms to access expanded realities.
Understanding this connection opens new perspectives on the biology of spirituality. If the pineal gland truly acts as a center for DMT release at key moments—such as birth, deep sleep, mystical ecstasy, or death—we may be facing one of the most valuable keys to understanding our innate capacity for transcendence.
DMT as a spiritual molecule or “the God molecule”
DMT has been called “the God molecule” because many of the experiences it induces coincide with ancient descriptions of mystical states. Those who have experienced it speak of a dissolution of the ego, encounters with entities of higher wisdom, and a profound sense of unity with the universe. This molecule seems to activate, within seconds, gateways that for many only open after years of meditation or intense spiritual practices.
Beyond the anecdotal, the similarities between personal experiences and traditional spiritual accounts are too consistent to be ignored. In cultures around the world, states induced by plants containing DMT have been used for ceremonial, healing, and visionary purposes. Everything indicates that this substance connects human beings with a dimension of consciousness that goes beyond the individual and the rational.
In the series Divine Science, available on Gaia, an entire episode is dedicated to exploring this phenomenon. The chapter DMT: Portals of Perception delves into how this molecule can open new possibilities for conscious evolution, access to other planes, and the understanding of our purpose in the cosmos. Through expert testimony and real experiences, the transformative potential of DMT as a tool for spiritual expansion is revealed.
Effects of DMT on perception and consciousness
The effects of DMT are intense and deeply transformative, even in small doses. At a perceptual level, it modifies the way time, space, personal identity, and connection with the environment are experienced. Below is a summary of some of the most commonly reported effects:
- Ego dissolution: The sense of personal identity temporarily fades. The individual experiences a consciousness without limits or separation.
- Perception of unity: Everything appears to be connected within a coherent network. There is a feeling of merging with the universe, nature, or a higher intelligence.
- Encounters with entities: Many users report having interacted with non-human beings. These presences are often perceived as guides or benevolent intelligences.
- Intensified geometry and light: The visions include vivid geometric patterns and intense colors. The environment becomes dynamic, bright, and charged with energy.
- Access to higher planes: There is a sense of having traveled to other dimensions. In those spaces, information is received that transcends ordinary logic.
What are the ways DMT is consumed?
DMT can be administered in various ways, and each method directly influences the duration, intensity, and nature of the experience. Below are the most common methods of consumption:
- Inhaled or vaporized: This is the fastest and most direct method. It produces an almost instantaneous effect that lasts between 5 and 15 minutes, with an abrupt onset and a highly visual and immersive experience.
- Smoked: Similar to vaporization, but using a pipe or mixed with dried herbs. Pulmonary absorption is rapid and generates an intense, short-lived experience.
- Injected (intramuscular or intravenous): Used mainly in scientific research contexts. It allows precise control of the dose and produces a brief but controlled experience.
- Oral (with MAOIs): It requires combining DMT with monoamine oxidase inhibitors, such as those found in ayahuasca. This combination allows DMT to become active through the digestive system, prolonging the effects for several hours.
- Insufflated (through the nose): Less common, but used in some traditional preparations such as yopo. It produces rapid effects, although less intense than those of direct inhalation.
Each route of administration opens a different type of perceptual portal, and choosing one over another depends on the context, intention, and level of preparation of the participant.
Ayahuasca and DMT: an ancestral connection
Ayahuasca is a sacred preparation used by Amazonian indigenous cultures since ancient times to access spiritual planes, heal trauma, and receive inner guidance. It combines two plants: Psychotria viridis, which contains DMT, and Banisteriopsis caapi, which provides the natural inhibitors necessary for DMT to be active orally and extend its effects for several hours.
Beyond its composition, ayahuasca is a medicine of consciousness, traditionally administered in ceremonies carefully guided by shamans. These rituals are not merely supportive: they are an energetic and spiritual container that facilitates the process of opening, transformation, and revelation. In this context, DMT is not experienced as an isolated molecule, but as a plant spirit with its own wisdom.
In recent decades, ayahuasca has reached communities around the world seeking profound experiences of inner expansion. When its spiritual dimension is respected and it is integrated with awareness, this medicine offers one of the most powerful and transformative accesses to the spiritual potential of DMT.
Is it possible to activate DMT naturally?
The human body produces DMT endogenously, and although the mechanism is not yet fully understood, there are practices that can promote its release. States such as deep sleep, intense meditation, fasting, and conscious breathing have been linked to neurological changes that could activate the production of this molecule. These techniques have been used for centuries by spiritual traditions seeking to access more subtle planes of reality.
One of the most well-known methods is holotropic breathing, a technique developed by psychiatrist Stanislav Grof, which uses specific breathing patterns to induce altered states of consciousness. It has also been observed that practices such as ecstatic dance, prolonged exposure to darkness, and ceremonial sound can trigger visions or intuitions similar to those generated by DMT. These experiences, although more subtle, can have an equally profound impact.
Activating DMT naturally is not only possible, but it can be part of a conscious and sustained spiritual path. Unlike the external use of psychedelics, these internal pathways require time, practice, and openness, but they offer genuine access to states of expansion that arise from within.
