Microdosing and Its Benefits
The majority of people I’ve spoken to that have experimented with microdosing before did just that: experimented.
I am not a doctor. These posts (and all other information blossoming from Aliud) are merely for educational purposes and not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult a healthcare professional before treading these psilocybin-spiked waters.
The majority of people I’ve spoken to that have experimented with microdosing before did just that: experimented. That is, broke off imprecise amounts of already imprecisely dosed mushroom chocolate (no disrespect to mushroom chocolate, just saying it is extremely difficult to evenly and accurately distribute the dose so every bite contains the same amount) or torn off what one estimates to be a proper microdose from a dried mushroom. Usually not only was the measurement irregular but also the dose schedule.
In my eyes, microdosing is most beneficial when:
The dose is precisely measured.
NO perceptual effects are experienced.
The schedule is regular and long-term.
The time is taken to really observe and take note of your subtle behavioral changes.
What do I mean by perceptual effects?
Perceptual effects are what one would typically experience during a macrodose, often described as feeling "high" or "wavy" or "trippy," drowsiness can also be present at onset. There may be intense sensory heightening such as colors appearing more vivid, objects seeming to vibrate, perceiving geometric patterns — just an all around increased sensory sensitivity to your environment. In addition to environmental sensitivity, some experience increased emotional sensitivity, especially if going through something particularly challenging in their life (read Good Trip Bad Trip).
And remember (especially those dosing for the first time or experimenting with a higher microdose) — always, always be aware of any impairment before operating any vehicle or machinery.
So what should I expect from a proper microdose then if not perceptual effects?
Subperceptul, intangible effects. By this I mean possible subtle positive changes in behavior such as: an overall sense of calm; feeling less stressed; much more acceptance rather than resistance when it comes to challenging situations or people; an increase in focus and creative flow; ease of communication; deeper connection to and understanding of self and others; ability to respond rather than react; a decrease in fear or negative thought patterns. Specifically, it has been said to be helpful in managing (not curing) addiction, ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, suicidality. If taken intentionally, you can experience a growth in personal wellness, all around creativity, and interpersonal connection, and you will learn more and more how to be present in the now.
What if I experience some perceptual effects but also the subtle behavioral changes you speak of?
This is a question I get asked often and, in my opinion, you honestly shouldn’t experience any perceptual effects when taking a real proper microdose. But I am no official authority when it comes to microdosing — ultimately, it is up to you to feel out what works or feels right for you (read Dose, Dosage, Deviation). If you are getting all the behavioral benefits and are not putting yourself or others in harm’s way, that’s all I care about.
In addition to all of its behavioral benefits, microdosing is also just a great introduction to mushrooms. And, for those who’ve always been curious about macrodosing but felt unsure or afraid or reluctant when contemplating a full trip, microdosing can function as an easy, unintimidating transition.
I kind of feel like, if dosing were a pie, macrodosing is eating the entire pie, while microdosing is eating just a sliver of the pie every few days. It’s the same pie, but one method is very intense and done occasionally, while the other is very subtle and done regularly.
After experiencing psilocybin in small doses, people tend to feel more comfortable, more familiar, more safe — they’ve gotten to know it. Thereafter, the thought of taking a large amount doesn’t seem so petrifying. However, macrodosing still isn’t for everyone. Not everyone has the time to go on a mindblowing inward adventure for the larger portion of a day. This quote said it best:
you deserve a safe alternative - ALIUD