As scientific research into psychedelic substances continues to grow, so too does our understanding of their potential impacts and benefits. Among these substances, psilocybin, commonly found in psychedelic mushrooms, and DMT (Dimethyltryptamine), a powerful hallucinogenic compound, have garnered significant interest from the research community. Let’s delve into the differences and similarities between psilocybin and DMT, focusing on their chemical structures, brain interactions, uses for wellbeing, and more, with an emphasis on the approach taken by Beckley Retreats in offering psychedelic ex ..read more

The following article, written by Jon Sharp, comes from The Beckley Foundation. To see the original text, click here. It’s increasingly clear that we’re in the midst of a Psychedelic Renaissance. The past decade has seen a gamut of incredible new research into psychedelic compounds, much of which has been initiated by Amanda Feidling and carried out in collaboration with the Beckley Foundation. We’ve seen evidence that psilocybin can be used to treat depression and addiction, which last year led to the legalisation of psilocybin therapy in the American state of Oregon and a surg ..read more

The exploration of psychedelic substances has expanded the horizons of self-reflection and transformative experiences for many. Emerging in continued research, we see the rise of psychdelic truffles and psilocybin mushrooms. These natural psychedelics have been used for centuries, offering profound insights into the mind and the nature of consciousness. In this article, we delve into the world of psychedelic truffles and mushrooms, comparing their effects, uses, and cultural significance to understand their role in contemporary explorations of wellbeing. What are Magic Truffles? Magic truffles ..read more

In honor of Women’s History Month, we want to highlight the invaluable contributions that women have made on the Beckley Retreats team. Without them, our programs would not be here today, and our mission to spark broader, positive change through unlocking new ways of seeing with psychedelics would not be possible.  The Beckley Retreats story would be incomplete without Amanda Feilding, the ‘hidden hand’ behind the renaissance of psychedelic science and drug policy reform. For over 25 years, Amanda and The Beckley Foundation have pioneered research into the transformative power of psyche ..read more

Embarking on a psychedelic journey can be an illuminating experience, offering profound insights and personal growth. However, like any voyage into the unknown, there’s the potential for challenging moments. In the realm of psychedelic exploration, these are often referred to as a ‘bad trip.’ Understanding how to navigate these experiences is crucial for anyone seeking to engage with psychedelics safely and constructively. This article, tailored for Beckley Retreats, provides essential guidance on how to stop a bad trip, ensuring your journey remains beneficial and transformative. What is a ‘B ..read more

In recent years, the conversation surrounding mental health has expanded, among which the use of psychedelics to address anxiety has emerged as a particularly intriguing option. With a history rooted in traditional practices and bolstered by contemporary research, psychedelic therapy for anxiety offers a novel pathway for those seeking relief from persistent anxiety symptoms. What is the History of Psychedelics and Anxiety? The use of psychedelics for therapeutic purposes dates back thousands of years, with indigenous cultures utilizing these substances for spiritual and medicinal purposes. In ..read more

The exploration of consciousness through psychedelic experiences has been a part of human culture for centuries, and in modern times, the role of music in these journeys has gained significant attention. Music, with its profound ability to influence mood and perception, plays a crucial part in shaping the psychedelic trip. The right selection of psychedelic trip music can act as a catalyst, deepening the journey and enhancing its therapeutic potential. This guide by Beckley Retreats delves into the intricate relationship between music and psychedelic experiences, offering insights into how the ..read more

Disclaimer: The content below should not be construed as medical advice. Furthermore, Beckley Retreats does not condone the use of illegal substances, nor do we sell such substances. It is essential for individuals to do their own research to ensure a safe and legal experience. This information is shared in that spirit. What is Microdosing? Microdosing is the act of consuming a small, sub-perceptual dose of a psychedelic, such as psilocybin mushrooms (aka magic mushrooms). Unlike with higher doses, the act of microdosing psychedelics allows individuals to access the benefits of these substance ..read more

What is psilocybin? Psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms & truffles, has been used for centuries in traditional spiritual practices. These powerful fungi first came to the attention of the West in 1957 after an American amateur mycologist took part in a traditional mushroom ceremony in Mexico. The chemical psilocybin was first isolated the following year by Albert Hofmann, the same scientist who discovered LSD. Ever since, science has been fascinated by the effects of this chemical on the brain. The promise of psilocybin In recent years, there has been a surge of interest i ..read more

Many kinds of retreats exist that use different psychedelic substances for different purposes, from Iboga for addiction to Bufo alvarius toad venom for enlightenment experiences. Among the most sought-after retreats are those using ayahuasca and psilocybin. Both offer profound experiences that can help individuals achieve personal growth goals and undergo inner transformation. These two kinds of retreats are not exactly the same, however. In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between ayahuasca and psilocybin retreats. What’s the Difference? While ayahuasca and psilocybin both offer profo ..read more