Choosing Your Psychedelic Journey: Solo vs. Group Exploration
In the realm of psychedelic experiences, the significance of "set and setting" is well-established. Your surroundings and mental state can significantly impact the outcome of your psychedelic journey. A crucial decision to make when planning such an expedition is whether to embark on it alone or within a group setting.
Psychedelic retreats, like those offered by Confluence Retreats, often embrace the group setting. But why is this the preferred choice for many, and what are the reasons behind this inclination? Recent research delves into the benefits of group settings, shedding light on this intriguing aspect.
Exploring Different Approaches to Psychedelics
Psychedelic experiences are inherently complex and influenced by the context in which they occur. Individuals can choose to take psychedelics alone in the comfort of their homes, with strangers at lively events, in clinical settings guided by therapists, in nature's embrace, or even as part of wellness retreats with friends. The possibilities are endless and continually evolving.
Currently, research suggests that roughly a third of individuals opt for solo experiences, another third engage in group experiences without specialized guidance, and the remaining third choose group settings that provide support from trip sitters or guides (Haijen et al., 2018).
Solo psychedelic journeys can extend beyond one's home, often taking place in natural settings or in serene environments like floatation tanks or silent meditation spaces.
Why Some Prefer Solo Psychedelic Journeys
Embarking on a solo psychedelic journey may appear to defy conventional wisdom, particularly for first-time users. It is typically recommended to have a sober sitter or guide present, especially for newcomers, to navigate any potential moments of panic or anxiety. Approximately one-third of individuals report challenging emotions during psychedelic experiences, and while these challenges are transient and do not diminish the value of the experience, having an experienced companion can provide essential support.
However, experienced users may eventually feel drawn to explore psychedelic journeys on their own, seeking the unique and introspective experience that solitude or nature can offer. While solitary journeys can provide profound insights, it's crucial to acknowledge that psychedelics remain unpredictable, and challenges may arise. Having a guide present can be a sensible precaution.
Moreover, certain insights may only be fully realized with the guidance of experienced psychedelic therapists or guides. In clinical research studies employing psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, the expertise of therapists played a pivotal role in facilitating significant reductions in depression and anxiety scores among participants. Collaborative dialogue and emotional support from guides can lead to impactful revelations.
In fact, the process of sharing experiences with others can be instrumental in fostering personal growth. At Confluence Retreats, participants often mention how the group dynamic allows them to open up in new ways and gain fresh perspectives.
In summary, while solo journeys may offer deep insights, they may also carry the risk of encountering psychological challenges and limit the potential for certain types of breakthroughs.
Exploring Group Settings
Guided group psychedelic sessions have their origins in cultures that incorporated psychedelics into their lifestyles and spiritual practices. Initially, group sessions were not common, with many indigenous practices involving solitary shamans ingesting psychedelics for divination purposes. Over time, some communities began participating in group rituals, laying the foundation for modern group ceremonies.
Contemporary group psychedelic retreats have gained popularity due to their ability to provide access to trained guides and support staff in specialized environments. They offer participants the opportunity to openly share their experiences within a safe container, fostering connections and mutual support.
These guided retreats vary in scale, from larger groups with non-intrusive guidance to more intimate gatherings with extensive support from coaches or therapists. Regardless of size, participants should expect a safe and supportive environment that encourages a focused exploration of the psychedelic experience.
Scientific Support for Group Psychedelic Retreats
Recent research has affirmed the transformative potential of group settings during psychedelic experiences. Comfort with the environment and fellow participants, as well as supportive guidance, correlates with improved well-being following the experience (Haijen et al., 2018). Setting a clear intention for the journey, especially one related to connecting with nature, spirituality, or therapeutic benefits, enhances the likelihood of increased well-being.
Moreover, individuals who felt at ease with their surroundings were less likely to encounter challenging experiences. Factors such as a positive mood, adequate preparation, and lower anxiety levels also contributed to reducing the risk of challenging encounters (Haijen et al., 2018). Group retreats typically account for these factors, crafting a safe, comfortable, and well-prepared environment for participants.
Group Retreats: A Boost for Mindfulness
Further research conducted at the University of Zurich indicates that psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic, can be integrated effectively and safely into group retreats. Observations of individuals on a meditation retreat revealed that psilocybin increased their levels of mindfulness and facilitated more meaningful and enduring positive changes in their lives (Smigielski et al., 2019).
Confluence Retreats: Elevating Well-Being and Connection
Studies conducted by Imperial College London that include populations at retreats that use the same model as Confluence Retreats highlight the significant increases in well-being associated with group psilocybin experiences. Participants in these retreats reported a 12% improvement in well-being after two weeks and a 10% improvement after four weeks, as measured by the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale. Additionally, scores on the Connectedness Scale more than doubled, increasing by 131% two weeks after the retreat. Group retreats provide a platform for enhancing well-being and strengthening connections with oneself, others, and nature.
Is a Group Psychedelic Retreat Right for You?
Not everyone may be suited for a group retreat, as individual preferences and personalities vary. Some individuals may find the presence of others overwhelming or prefer constant one-on-one support. Nonetheless, many retreats offer options for participants to step away from the main group when needed and provide one-to-one care.
Even for those who lean toward solo or intimate psychedelic experiences, group settings offer a valuable human element that can lead to unexpected insights and personal growth.
Discover the Benefits of Confluence Retreats
At Confluence Retreats, we offer a group setting that prioritizes comfort and support. Our luxurious venue ensures relaxation and nourishment, our team of coaches and guides is hand-picked to provide attentive care, and our medical professionals ensure your safety throughout the journey.
Our group psychedelic retreats are an ideal way to initiate your psychedelic journey or explore its benefits within a supportive and secure environment.
Oregon's Legal Psilocybin Initiative (Measure 109)
Oregon's pioneering Legal Psilocybin Initiative (Measure 109) marks a groundbreaking step toward the integration of psilocybin into therapeutic practices. By legalizing the supervised medical use of psilocybin, Oregon leads the way in progressive psychedelic policies. This initiative acknowledges the potential of psilocybin to enhance well-being and offers an opportunity for further research and clinical applications, exploring its ability to boost mindfulness and contribute to improved mental health for both individuals and groups.
Note: this blog is based on an article that originally appeared on the Synthesis Insitute’s website here.