Biohacker's 4 crucial steps to therapy with psychedelics — and a non-drug technique to try first
The self-proclaimed 'father of biohacking' has long touted the potential brain-boosting, trauma-releasing and even life-extending power of these mind-bending substances.
But it's not all bliss and breakthroughs. In his new book 'Heavily Meditated,' Asprey warns that psychedelics carry real risks and stresses that proper preparation is key to avoiding a trip gone wrong.
5 Dave Asprey shares his psychedelic experiences in his new book, 'Heavily Meditated: The Fast Path to Remove Your Triggers, Dissolve Stress, and Activate Inner Peace.'
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'It can take months to heal psychologically if you have a bad reaction or if you choose to try it alone without the support of an expert,' he wrote, noting that a 'meaningful number of people have mental breaks afterward.'
So, how do you trip smarter — not harder? Asprey outlined four key steps to prepare for a psychedelic experience that can help maximize benefits and minimize risks.
But before you reach for the drugs, he wants you to try this first.
'You can access the same altered states with other methods outside of these substances, like holotropic breathwork,' Asprey told The Post.
This technique combines rapid, controlled breathing with sensory music to promote mental, spiritual and physical healing.
Asprey interviewed the creator of holotropic breathwork, Dr. Stanislav Grof, on his podcast, 'The Human Upgrade.' Grof explained that the technique slows oxygen flow to the brain, triggering distress signals to the limbic system. This breathing style alters your self-perception and sense of time, inducing a psychedelic state.
5 Studies suggest that one in four Americans have tried at least one psychdelic drug in their lifetime.
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'It felt like tripping balls — my mind was on a hyperdrive tour of the universe. But there were no drugs involved,' Asprey wrote about his first experience in 'Heavily Meditated.'
This altered state of consciousness is believed to help people access parts of the psyche typically out of reach, allowing them to work through emotional blocks and unresolved issues.
'It dug up stuff deeper than anything I've experienced, even more profound than my trips with ayahuasca,' Asprey noted.
While it's generally considered safe, holotropic breathwork isn't recommended for certain groups, such as those with a history of cardiovascular issues, high blood pressure, panic attacks, psychosis or seizure disorders, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Still curious about trying mind-altering substances? Asprey says these four steps are key to a smooth and successful experience.
5 Traditionally, psychedelic substances like ayahuasca are taken under the guidance of an experienced shaman.
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#1. Set the scene
'Find a very reputable guide and a safe space,' Asprey advised. 'Don't go at it alone.'
Psychedelics can stir up a wide range of emotions — including fear, anxiety and confusion — often referred to as a 'bad trip.' Without support, managing those intense feelings can be difficult and overwhelming.
'Some of these experiences can leave marks that aren't easy to shake off.' Dave Asprey
Being in a chaotic, stressful or unsafe environment can amplify those reactions, increasing the risk of a negative experience.
Across the US, a growing number of states and cities are moving to legalize and regulate therapeutic psychedelic use. That includes Oregon, where licensed clinics can administer psilocybin — the active compound in psychedelic mushrooms — to adults 21 and older under the supervision of trained facilitators.
Clinical trials are also underway at institutions like Mount Sinai's Parsons Research Center for Psychedelic Healing, which features dedicated treatment and group therapy rooms designed to support safe, supervised psychedelic therapy and research.
#2. Come up with a plan
Working with a trained expert can also help you understand how different substances, strains and doses affect the mind and body.
'Start slow,' Asprey recommended. 'Some people can handle more without losing their minds. Others can access altered states with smaller doses.'
5 Psilocybin, the psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms, is being studied for its potential therapeutic effects.
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#3. Anchor your experience
While many people view psychedelics as purely recreational, Asprey suggests treating the trip as an opportunity for insight, not just pleasure.
'Be clear on your intentions,' he advised.
Establishing a purpose beforehand can help guide the experience toward healing or personal growth. It also serves as a mental anchor if things become overwhelming or disorienting, reducing the risk of the journey going off track.
5 There are a wide variety of practices used to integrate a psychedelic experience, including creative expression and quiet meditation.
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#4 Don't neglect your post-trip
'You must integrate afterwards,' Asprey said. 'This is crucial.'
Integration means taking time to process the emotions, realizations, or insights that surfaced during a psychedelic experience. It's how you extract long-term value — and avoid letting breakthroughs fade into the background.
This might involve journaling, creating art, meditating, joining a support group, or working with a trained therapist.
'I see people getting high every weekend with no integration and no therapeutics,' Asprey said. 'That's not how to do it, especially if you're in your 20s.'
'When used wisely and with respect, psychedelics can provide a profound inner journey that opens doors to uncharted territories of your mind,' Asprey wrote in 'Heavily Meditated.'
'But there's a catch — some of these experiences can leave marks that aren't easy to shake off,' he added. 'That's why environment, mindset and having an experienced guide are crucial if you choose to journey with any of them, especially if you're inexperienced.'
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