Microdosing is gaining a lot of traction lately as many people report beneficial outcomes. It’s a that whispers rather than shouts, inviting us to explore altered states without losing touch with the everyday. Let’s take a better look at what microdosing exactly entails and what secrets its subtle effects may unlock.
What is Microdosing?
Microdosing is the practice of consistently taking a small quantity of psychedelic substance like magic mushrooms with doses ranging typically between 5–10% of a usual dose. Microdosing produces mild, sub-hallucinogenic effects instead of the usual psychedelic ones such as visuals and strange bodily sensations, which are typical for higher doses. By following a pre-defined microdosing protocol, people may see many benefits ranging from an improved mood to cognitive enhancements.
Microdosing Magic Mushrooms Mechanism of Action
Brain serotonin receptors are influenced by psilocybin, which is present in magic mushrooms. Serotonin is essential for mood regulation, appetite control, and sleep, among other functions. Therefore, microdosing may influence how the brain processes serotonin, potentially leading to benefits such as enhanced mood, reduced anxiety, improved creativity, productivity, and overall well-being.
Research indicates that psilocybin increases neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form new neural connections and adapt to environmental changes. This could explain why many individuals who microdose report improved cognitive function and problem-solving skills.
Although scientific research on the benefits of microdosing mushrooms is still in its early stages, numerous anecdotal reports highlight its significant benefits for improving creativity, focus, and mental health. However, due to limited scientific data on microdosing the long-term effects and risks are yet to be established and for now remain largely unknown.
What’s The Ideal Dosage For Microdosing Magic Mushrooms
Determining your ideal dosage for microdosing magic mushrooms requires time and careful experimentation. The commonly recommended approach is to “start low and go slow,” gradually adjusting your dosage as needed. Keep in mind that each strain of magic mushrooms varies in potency, and if you are not getting ready to use microdosing products you would need to research and adjust the dose accordingly.
A good starting point is a dosage between 0.05 and 0.15 grams of dried mushrooms. Keeping a journal of your dosages and experiences during the initial days or weeks of your microdosing journey can be highly beneficial. The initial microdosing experiences can be unpredictable, so it’s important to plan accordingly. Take your doses in a safe and comfortable environment, ideally free from urgent tasks and responsibilities.
How To Microdose Magic Mushrooms
The most important part about microdosing is to approach this practice mindfully. The whole point of microdosing is to have a more subtle and controlled experience that’s not overwhelming in any way. Here’s how to start microdosing in a couple of easy steps:
Prepare the Dose: Begin by weighing out a small amount of dried mushrooms or mushroom powder, typically between 0.05 and 0.15 grams. It’s always best to start with the lower dose as you can gradually increase it over time to find the optimal dose for yourself.
Choose a Schedule: Decide on a microdosing schedule that works for you. Some people prefer to microdose every other day, while others microdose every third or fourth day. Maintaining a regular schedule is necessary for preventing tolerance buildup.
Keep a Journal: Write down your experience and any changes in mood, creativity, or productivity that you may notice. This can help you fine-tune your microdosing routine and optimize the benefits of this practice.
Choosing the Right Microdosing Protocol
Microdosing protocol typically spans 2–8 weeks and should seamlessly integrate into your daily life. The whole idea behind is microdosing that it doesn’t cause noticeable psychedelic effects, thus you can continue with your daily tasks like you didn’t take anything at all. The goal is to feel that microdosing fits your daily routine effortlessly rather than forcing yourself to follow a protocol that doesn’t fit your lifestyle. Here are the three best beginner microdosing protocols:
Fadiman Protocol
The most widely used and renowned microdosing method was developed by Dr. James Fadiman, a pioneering researcher in the field of psychedelics. This is the only protocol that has been used in clinical studies so far and as such is considered the best starting point for anyone interested in microdosing. The protocol is straightforward and involves dosing once every three days for a period of 4–8 weeks.
Dosing Schedule
- Day 1 – Dose
- Day 2 – Rest
- Day 3 – Rest
- Day 4 – Dose
Repeat the cycle for 4 to 8 weeks followed by 2 to 4 weeks rest between the cycles.
Every Other Day
This protocol was developed by the Microdosing Institute to treat mental health conditions like depression, PTSD, and anxiety. However, it’s not limited only to addressing health concerns it can also be used to improve creativity, focus, and overall well-being. The protocol involves taking a microdose every other day for 4 to 8 weeks.
Dosing Schedule
- Day 1 – Dose
- Day 2 – Rest
- Day 3 – Dose
- Day 4 – Rest
Repeat the cycle for 4 to 8 weeks followed by 2 to 4 weeks rest between the cycles.
Two Days a Week
For those who are busy and prefer a consistent weekly schedule, the 2 days a week protocol may be the best choice. Simply choose two fixed days each week for microdosing, and make sure that there is at least 24-hour break between dosing
Dosing Schedule
- Day 1 – Dose
- Day 2 – Rest
- Day 3 – Rest
- Day 4 – Rest
- Day 5 – Dose
Repeat the cycle for 4 to 8 weeks followed by 2 week rest between the cycles.
Practices that Support Microdosing
You will experience the most significant benefits from your microdosing journey if you incorporate or strengthen other healthy lifestyle practices, such as:
- Meditation
- Breathwork
- Spending time in nature
- Practicing Yoga
- Journaling
- Reading
- Volunteering
Feel free to explore and find what fulfills you. Many people find joy in creating music, drawing, writing and even cooking. Do whatever satisfies you.
Aspects of holistic health and wellness include more than just microdosing. To achieve true happiness and health, it’s essential to let go of all negative things that no longer serve you, creating a more constructive place for yourself. By doing so, you can break the chains that hold you back from realizing your full potential.