Preparing for Altered States
How to Prepare for Your Altered State Journey
What an exciting time! You’re exploring—or have decided to step into—an altered state of consciousness. Whether through psychedelics, breathwork, or other techniques, altered states can offer profound experiences and open doors to new insights. But before diving in, it’s essential to prepare thoughtfully. A little preparation can make the difference between a transformative journey and one that feels confusing or overwhelming.
Understanding Drug, Set, and Setting
Let’s start with some basic psychoeducation on Drug, Set, and Setting—three pillars that influence your experience.
Drug: Each substance has different effects, durations, and safety considerations. For instance, a macro dose of ketamine might bring you on a 2–3 hour journey, allowing deep introspection or emotional release. It’s essential to understand the effects, potential side effects, and the after-effects unique to ketamine. Each substance also has specific contraindications and guidelines. For example, certain medications, mental health conditions, or physiological factors may make one substance less suitable. Speaking with a knowledgeable professional beforehand can help you determine the right approach and prepare you for what to expect during and after your experience.
Setting: Choose a safe, comfortable environment that aligns with your intentions. When using altered states for therapeutic purposes, your setting may include a cozy space, calming music, and possibly a face mask to help you go inward. Being in an environment where you feel physically and emotionally safe is crucial. If you’re journeying solo or with friends, choose people who are supportive and understanding. Avoid spaces where you might feel on edge or uncomfortable, as this can distract from your experience.
Set: Set refers to mindset—your thoughts, emotions, and intentions going into the journey. This is where much of the preparation lies, as your mental state can shape the entire experience. Preparing your set means taking time to manage expectations, clarify intentions, and ground yourself.
Preparing Your Mindset (Set)
1. Managing Expectations
Altered states can be deeply unpredictable. You may encounter beauty, joy, and revelation—or you might face challenging or unexpected emotions. Holding your expectations gently can help prevent disappointment or confusion if things don’t go as imagined. Approach the experience with an open mind, acknowledging that the journey may take you somewhere you didn’t anticipate.
Tip: Go in with a mindset of curiosity. Instead of expecting specific insights or breakthroughs, remind yourself that whatever happens is part of the journey, and trust that it’s meaningful even if it’s not obvious right away.
2. Setting Intentions
Intentions are a powerful aspect of preparation, and they can set a guiding tone for your journey. Think of this as an opportunity to expand rather than narrow down. Instead of focusing on what you want to remove or avoid, concentrate on what you hope to welcome into your life.
Questions to ask yourself:
Where do I want to go in my life?
How do I want to show up for myself and others?
What do I hope to explore or understand more deeply?
Dream big here. Your intention could be as broad as “I want to connect with my inner strength” or “I hope to feel more compassion.” This isn’t about forcing yourself in a specific direction but setting a positive, expansive goal. And remember, it’s okay if the journey takes you somewhere else entirely.
3. Grounding in Openness
Recognize that altered states can lead to profound changes, but they also require your focus and dedication when you’re back in “normal” consciousness. These experiences may feel transformative, but the real work comes afterward—integrating the insights into daily life, staying committed to self-care, and working to create lasting changes.
Practical Preparation Ideas
Before the Journey
Create a Comfortable Space: Arrange a space where you feel safe and relaxed. Gather blankets, pillows, soft lighting, and any objects that bring you comfort. Many people find it helpful to have a journal nearby, although writing may be better saved for afterward.
Curate Music or Silence: Music can be incredibly powerful in guiding your experience. Choose a playlist that resonates with you or try ambient sounds. Some people find silence most grounding, allowing them to focus solely on the internal experience.
Set Your Support System: If you’re journeying with a sitter or therapist, discuss any expectations or needs beforehand. If you’re solo, let a trusted friend know about your plan so they can check in afterward if needed.
Practice Relaxation Techniques: Try a few grounding exercises, such as deep breathing or meditation, to calm any pre-journey jitters and connect with your body.
During the Journey
Hold Space for Yourself: Allow yourself to fully engage in the experience, without trying to make meaning of it as it’s happening. If emotions arise, let them flow without judgment or analysis. Breathe, stay as present as possible, and allow the journey to unfold.
Stay Focused with “Soft Eyes”: Gently remind yourself to observe without holding tightly to any single moment. “Soft eyes” is a way of staying present but with an openness and lack of rigidity—allow yourself to notice without needing to define.
After the Journey: Integration and Self-Care
The real power of altered states often lies in how you integrate what you learned into your daily life. Be prepared to give yourself time and space afterward to reflect, process, and rest.
Take It Slow: Plan to have time for rest and reflection after the journey. It’s common to feel sensitive or emotionally raw, so allow yourself to go slow, set boundaries, and ask for support.
Avoid Immediate Meaning-Making: Insight may flow to you gradually, often when you least expect it. It’s helpful to avoid trying to assign meaning right away. Let the experience settle, then revisit it after some time has passed.
Journal and Reflect: In the days after, write about any thoughts or realizations. Pay attention to shifts in perspective, even subtle ones. Journaling can help with clarity, and you may notice themes emerge over time.
Consider Talking with a Supportive Professional: A therapist, counselor, or integration coach can help you work through any challenges or insights that came up. They can offer perspective and help you build on what you experienced.
Final Thoughts: Entering the Unknown with an Open Heart
Embarking on an altered state journey can be both exhilarating and intimidating. Approach it as an exercise in expansion and discovery, holding your intentions with a gentle touch. Stay grounded in the present, and be willing to let go of rigid expectations. After the experience, be kind and patient with yourself, allowing time to process, rest, and integrate.
Ultimately, these journeys are about connection, healing, and transformation. By preparing mindfully, you’re setting yourself up to receive the full depth and richness of whatever insights await you.
The journey is yours, dear ones—don’t forget to have fun.