What is “holistic psychedelics”? And why am I so passionate about it?
Let’s define holistic: Characterized by the belief that the parts of something are interconnected and can be expanded only in reference to the whole; Encompassing the whole of a thing/person, not just the part.
Most of us have heard the term holistic medicine. This way of practicing medicine treats the whole human, mind, body, and soul instead of treating only the part of the patient that is most sick.
This is vitalism (what I practice), ayurvedic medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and naturopathy. These are all systems that have realized that without working towards healing the whole human, the pattern of blocked vitality and illness will continue.
We aren’t just a brain, or a heart, or a skeletal system, etc. We are an ecosystem within a greater ecosystem. It’s far more complex than the reductionist science that wants to break everything down into isolated pieces. We are this physical human body AND an energetic body that is deeply affected by our internal environment (gut health, emotions, food quality, self-talk, wounds and traumas), and our external environment (home, friends, media, surroundings).
Vitalist medicine and psychedelic use form a synergistic relationship that can enhance overall well-being and healing outcomes. Psychedelic experiences can facilitate profound insights into one's physical, mental, and spiritual health. These substances can help individuals gain a more comprehensive understanding of their well-being, revealing areas that may need attention or healing. By integrating psychedelic experiences with holistic wellness, clients can work towards achieving balance and harmony in all aspects of their life.
At this time, most of us have heard the term gut-brain connection. I hesitate to use the word connection because that would indicate there is a separation, which is untrue, so let's refer to it as the gut-brain axis. The gut-brain axis plays a crucial role in this holistic approach. New research suggests there is a bidirectional relationship between psychedelics and the gut microbiome. A healthy gut may enhance the therapeutic effects of psychedelics, while psychedelic experiences might positively influence gut health. I think this is pretty darn neat! This interplay is the importance of considering nutrition and gut health as part of a holistic approach to psychedelic therapy.
So, what is the gut-brain axis?
The concept of the gut brain access is not just a fascinating scientific discovery-it's a revolutionary way of understanding how different parts of our body are interconnected, influencing our health and well-being. At the heart of this connection is the enteric nervous system (ENS), often referred to as our second brain, which communicates directly with the central nervous system (CNS) via the vagus nerve and other neural pathways. This communication is bidirectional-not only does the brain send signals to the gut, but the gut also sends messages back to the brain. This exchange is crucial for maintaining homeostasis and influences various bodily functions, including mood, appetite, and even our stress levels. The gut microbiome (read my article on the microbiome!), consisting of trillions of bacteria, plays a vital role in this process, affecting everything from nutrient absorption to the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin.
Numerous studies have highlighted the connection between gut health and mental wellness. For instance individuals with certain gastrointestinal disorders often experience higher rates of anxiety and depression. An imbalanced gut microbiome can contribute to a range of mental health issues. By understanding the gut brain access, we can appreciate the profound impact that our gut health has in or mental state. It's a relationship that underscores the importance of holistic approaches the health, where nurturing our digestive system is seen as integral to nurturing our mind and spirit.
What does holistic psychedelic use look like in practice?
Vitalist holistic medicine is like a curious explorer, diving deep into the colorful tapestry of an individual's well-being. It's not just about fixing surface-level issues but about unraveling the mysteries of what truly makes us thrive in our fleeting human lives. Picture a blend of nourishing foods, magical herbs, and enriching lifestyle practices all coming together to create a symphony of wellness.
We also recognize the pivotal role that community and personal relationships play in shaping our lives and nurturing the spiritual self through practices like meditation or ritual. And, most significantly, we emphasize the importance of cultivating a profound connection with nature and our beloved Mother Earth. Now, consider infusing this vibrant mix with the potency of psychedelics. Can you sense the transformative potential of holistic psychedelics?
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