Contemporary psychedelic research focuses largely on the psyche and brain—its perceptions, emotions, and cognitive transformations under the influence of these substances. However, this perspective often underestimates the crucial role of the body in these experiences. In contrast to this psyche-centric view, the concept of "psychesomadelics" highlights the profound interplay between soma (the body) and psyche (the mind), recognising that altered states of consciousness are deeply embodied phenomena.
In many traditional societies, the body was not merely a passive vessel but an essential participant in the transformation journey, regarded as equally important in consciousness-expanding practices. Body-centred practices, such as ritual, music, movement, breathwork, and somatic awareness, have long been fundamental to these cultures' approaches to altered states. In contrast, modern society places significant emphasis on transcendental psychedelic experiences, often without sufficient somatic preparation.
Tonight, I invite you to explore this vital connection between soma and psyche—how the body not only responds to but actively shapes our psychedelic experiences.
WHY ATTEND:
In this workshop, you will:
- Learn about the concept of primary and secondary consciousness as an interplay between bodily and cognitive intelligence.
- Discuss the historical foundations of body-centred approaches to altered states, along with emerging research into somatic and autonomic processes.
- Outline the legal and practical framework of psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) in Switzerland and share my approach to somatic psychedelic therapy.
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