🫠 Ask a Guide Anything

Welcome to Tricycle Day. We’re the psychedelics newsletter that would never push you to do anything… except maybe open our emails, and support our sponsors, and forward this newsletter to a friend, and… 🫥

Once you’ve had a positive experience with psychedelics, the first thing you want to do is share it with everyone you love. That’s only natural. But there’s a fine line between genuinely helping and recklessly evangelizing.

Since no one wants to be that guy (or gal), we asked our network of practitioners: How do I approach a loved one I think could benefit from psychedelics when they're not receptive to the conversation?

Here's what they had to say.

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Embody the medicine

Several guides pointed out that the most powerful form of persuasion is to embody the changes psychedelics have created in your own life. Darlene Rollins says, "our job is not only to heal ourselves but to embody the light, especially for our families. We can pass on the medicine in our relationships by simply loving and trusting that those who suffer will find their way when they are ready."

Eric Toshalis warns that "inside an evangelist’s enthusiasm is a judgment that others are living wrongly." Instead, he advises to "work hard to integrate your journeys into your own life. Don't try to convince folks to do it; just be the transformation you're seeking and wait for folks to ask about it."

Clara Mackinlay echoes this sentiment: "Start by living your truth. If psychedelics have helped you, let your loved one see those shifts in how you live, relate, and grow."

Educate without expectation

When it comes to actual conversations, guides recommend leading with education. Eliza Collins suggests "discussing the latest research or sharing uplifting news stories, such as research into veterans’ health and how psychedelics are transforming people's experiences with PTSD." (We might know a newsletter you could recommend, *ahem*)

Angela Balboa has found success in an indirect approach: "I will generally start with talking about modalities such as breathwork, somatics, or sound healing. When the time is right, I will then offer to share research along with my own experience. Resources from institutions like Johns Hopkins and Stanford offer a sense of credibility and safety."

Briana Benn-Mirandi recommends specific resources: "I'd first invite them to look over the many studies out there on ketamine's benefits, since it is legal and well documented. I'd then also invite them to watch How to Change Your Mind on Netflix."

Honor their autonomy

Most importantly, practitioners stressed respecting others' autonomy and timing. Kari Roe-LaFramboise puts it plainly: "I firmly believe we need to meet and support people exactly where they are. Be curious about their reasons for not wanting to have the conversation and honor their wishes."

Ben Askins snarks: "First rule of the psychedelic club: don't force-feed the red pill. It ain't a suppository. Lead with curiosity, and if they still say no, respect their autonomy."

Carla Detchon similarly recommends: "Trust their journey. Psychedelics may or may not be their path. Don't push, pressure, or even suggest they should try anything. For an experience to go well for them, it needs to come from their own internal ‘Yes.’"

Our take

We couldn’t agree more that every individual’s choice must come from within. Not only is it ineffective (and pretty annoying) to be pushing psychedelics on everyone you meet; it’s risky and potentially dangerous, too.

Maybe your friend or family member isn’t ready. Maybe their set and setting aren’t dialed. Maybe your incessant nagging persistence is driving a rift in your relationship.

The way we see it, our job isn't to convince others to change their lives with psychedelics. It’s to be available for support if and when they seek it out themselves.

Got a question for our guides?

Reply to this email to shoot your shot. If it’s a juicy one, we may select it for a future issue.

Seeking more personalized guidance?

Our directory of vetted psychedelic professionals is a great place to start your search. Find a facilitator on Maria’s List.

UNTIL NEXT TIME

That’s all for today, Cyclists! Whenever you’re ready, here’s how we can help.

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DISCLAIMER: This newsletter is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice. The use, possession, and distribution of psychedelic drugs are illegal in most countries and may result in criminal prosecution.