Psychedelic trips using substances such as psilocybin are gaining popularity. We reach for them in search of inner harmony, authentic self-knowledge and inner transformation. As interest in these experiences grows, more attention is also being paid to the role of the trip sitter – the person who accompanies the user during the psychedelic experience. This function not only provides the basis for a safe exploration of inner reality, but also allows us to explore unknown aspects of our psyche.
Today’s post also relates to my own experience, which took place relatively recently. After a few days of reflection, I decided to describe these events from my point of view, as well as to try to see them through the eyes of a person who has embarked on a journey into herself on her own.
I invite you to discover together the true role of the tripsitter, the benefits of his presence and the not inconsiderable role of peace and security during the journey.
Who is a trip sitter?
A trip sitter is a person who accompanies, supports and supervises you while you are using psychoactive substances. The key task of a trip sitter is to ensure safety and comfort during the trip. His or her role is not limited to being a witness to events – the trip sitter should have the skills and knowledge to respond appropriately in difficult moments, as well as help interpret the experience. This role is becoming increasingly important because psychedelics can lead to intense emotional and visual experiences that can be both fascinating and overwhelming.
An extremely important aspect is the choice of the tripsitter. If you decide to travel at home, the choice can be very easy – someone close to you is perfect for this: a partner, a friend. Ideally, it should be someone who remains sober and knows you enough to guide you on the right track if necessary.
Nowadays, all kinds of ceremonies with magic truffles, mushrooms, as well as other psychoactive substances are also popular. If you decide to go this way, it becomes extremely important to choose the right place, and especially the person who oversees such a ceremony. Remember that by taking psychoactive substances you not only open yourself to your own inner world, but also become more sensitive to what flows from the outside. So consciously choose places and people who can have a greater impact on you at such a sensitive time. It is crucial that this person is trusted, competent and has experience in accompanying you in this type of situation.
Why is the role of the trip sitter crucial?
The role of the trip sitter during a psychedelic experience, is crucial for several reasons:
- Safety: First and foremost, the trip sitter provides physical and emotional support. In situations where the user is experiencing severe fears, panic or anxiety, the presence of another person can be invaluable. Such a person acts as a stabilizing reminder that the experience is temporary, which can help you overcome difficult moments.
- Creating the right environment: A safe and comfortable space is crucial to a successful psychedelic trip. Trip sitter can make sure the right atmosphere, music, lighting and other elements are in place to promote relaxation.
- Warning of dangers: The trip sitter is also tasked with monitoring the user’s physical and mental reactions. In the event of adverse symptoms, the trip sitter is able to react quickly and take appropriate measures, which can prevent more serious health problems.
- Support for inner exploration: Psychedelic trips often lead to deep reflection and discovery. A trip sitter can act as a guide, helping to interpret and understand the experience. The sitter ensures that the experience does not cross certain boundaries, both in terms of safety and psychological well-being. This may include taking action in the face of possible threats to physical or emotional health.
- Intimacy and trust: A key aspect of any psychedelic journey is trust. The presence of someone familiar and trusted can greatly enhance the experience. Intimacy and closeness make the user feel safer and more at ease.
Own experience
As I mentioned earlier, mindfulness travel, especially when using psychoactive substances, can be an intense experience. The role of the tripsitter is crucial to ensure safety and support, enabling a deeper understanding of oneself and the emotions and experiences surrounding the journey.
The importance of a safe, calm environment and a person who is aware of his or her role as a trip sitter has recently convinced me personally.
A few days ago, my partner decided to try the strongest truffles available in our store. We are talking about Hollandia, which showed us its full potential. My man, having some experience with psilocybin, decided to consume a whole packet (15 grams) of Hollandia. Neither of us was fully aware of the power of this particular truffle and the importance of the presence of a calm guide during such a trip.
Busy with my own affairs, I left him to explore his experience in solitude, peeking in from time to time. In the third hour of his experience, an unpleasant incident occurred. Our diabetic dog suffered a severe drop in his glucose levels, which threatened his life. My reaction, was, in short, inappropriate given my partner’s condition. I introduced a nervous atmosphere, completely ignoring his experience. Fortunately, nothing serious happened to the dog, but my partner’s story about his experience shook me a bit.
Bad trip
Wikipedia defines bad trip as an acute adverse psychological reaction to the effects produced under the influence of psychoactive substances. Clear, simple, transparent and to the point. But in experience – it’s a different story.
When my partner felt the tense atmosphere, an approximately two-hour bad trip began. Not only was Hollandia in such quantity too strong for him, the incident with the dog further exacerbated the negative effects. The partner described the experience as a prelude to psychosis, the negative feelings were intensified and the fears sharpened. After calming down and entering into inner meditation, he managed to calm down and gain distance. Moreover, he was able to access unconscious blockages, which he now understands and works through.
The situation ended happily, but brought with it many lessons for both of us. First of all, we learned not to underestimate the right companion for this type of journey. I failed in this role, but I know that I will not make this mistake a second time. It ended happily, but it could have been very different.
Modern adaptation of the traditional role of the shaman
When considering the importance of the role of the trip sitter, one cannot ignore its roots derived from shamanic traditions. In such a context, psychedelic journeys usually took place surrounded by experienced guides, which underscores the historical significance of the sitter’s role. Today, new regulations and standards for the use of psychedelics are emerging as research interest in psychedelics grows. Adapting roles such as the trip sitter to modern personal and therapeutic contexts significantly affects the quality of the psychedelic experience. The experience and support of a trip sitter can significantly influence the course and outcomes of such a trip, ensuring safety and a sense of comfort.
New approach
Contemporary research on psychedelics shows that adequate preparation before the experience and debriefing afterwards are crucial to achieving positive therapeutic effects. In this context, trip sitters are often trained to not only ensure safety, but also to discreetly intervene when difficult emotions or crisis situations arise.
As psychoactive substances increasingly find their way into therapy, new guidelines are emerging regarding the safety, ethics and medical practices associated with their use. This includes both formal training for trip sitters and therapists, as well as establishing an appropriate legal framework for such practices. It is worth noting that the role requires not only knowledge of substances, but also interpersonal skills, empathy and understanding of the different experiences of participants.
Adapting traditional roles to modern contexts contributes to greater effectiveness and safety during psychedelic therapies. As a result, changing approaches to these traditional roles may shape the future of psychedelic therapies, with a more holistic and integrated approach to treatment and self-improvement.
