Literature

Dr. Gabor Maté provides a compelling exploration of the mind-body union in his book, emphasizing their inseparable connection. He illuminates the profound impacts of stress and trauma on the body, while also offering insights into effective healing approaches for these afflictions.It's a must-read for those seeking personal growth and healing, particularly through the transformative potential of psychedelics.

This book is the most comprehensive compilation of Gabor Maté's teachings to date. Within its pages, readers will uncover how societal structures are intricately linked to cycles of trauma and illness. Moreover, it serves as a call to action, urging individuals to examine and transform their own patterns and beliefs that may contribute to both physical and mental ailments. Although lengthy, it encapsulates the foundational principles of our therapy approach and resonates deeply with our views on trauma and its healing process.

Tara Brach is an invaluable guide in the realm of compassionate self-awareness. Her teachings in this writing have inspired a practice that we've incorporated into our own approach and now share with all our clients. For those new to Tara Brach's teachings, this book serves as an excellent introduction to mindfulness and loving awareness.

Richard Schwartz is a leading mind in the therapeutic approach known as "parts work." His philosophy suggests that deep healing is attainable through exploration of our various "selves" who have experienced and adapted to trauma. This journey fosters not only enhanced self-understanding but also a deeper connection within. The audiobook contains wonderful guided meditations and practices which help you to embody the teachings. We suggest doing them with your whole attention, not as background noise for car rides!

Trauma inevitably equates to suffering. But is it possible that our suffering can open us up to greater, better things? Thich Nhat Hanh, a Buddhist monk, breaks down the teachings of Buddha to explore the transformative power of suffering and how we can purposefully harness it for personal growth. Regarding the psychedelic, our perspective on suffering and adversity greatly affects the benefit we derive from the challenges or pains set before us during an experience.

Joseph Campbell extensively researched the advantages of altered mental states and devised a transformative "journey" that can be navigated through heightened awareness, commitment, and purpose. At the heart of this journey is the archetype of the hero, a role each person is summoned to embody but may not fully embrace. Along this path lie life's inherent challenges and revelations, symbolized by totems, disasters, and mythical beings. While philosophically dense, reading just a few chapters of Campbell's work can profoundly shift your perspective on your life's purpose and empower you to reconnect with your heroic path.

With nearly 40 years of immersive training in indigenous practices surrounding psychedelics and altered mental states, Françoise Bourzat serves as a vital link between traditional medicines and the contemporary world. She honors the profound wisdom and traditions of centuries-old native cultures while skillfully adapting their teachings into a practical guide for healing journeys. The tri-cornerstone approach of preparation, journeying, and integration echoes the foundation of our own practice.

Stanislav Grof began researching the psychotherapeutic potential of LSD as early as 1960. Through decades of studying, he developed a theoretical framework known as "transpersonal psychology," which integrates the spiritual and transcendent dimensions of human experience with modern psychology. This book elaborates on his therapeutic approach, emphasizing humanity's innate quest for wholeness and ongoing exploration of our reality. Due to its complexity, we recommend this book for individuals already familiar with psychology and the psychedelic realm.

In his 1950's autobiography, Aldous Huxley reflects upon personal psychedelic experiences with mescaline, a psychoactive cactus. From these insights, he concludes that psychedelics can serve as catalysts for mystical revelations, offering significant potential benefits for science, art, and religion. Huxley's interpretations of each experience and his reflections on their psychological and philosophical implications make for a captivating read, particularly for those interested in exploring psychedelics firsthand. His book garnered such high acclaim that it has been made freely available to the public online.

Finally, a light-hearted fictional story to inspire and enhance your own psychedelic experience! This fantasy adventure follows a young man who is haphazardly pulled into a life-changing quest to find ancient Peruvian manuscripts detailing nine spiritual teachings. Each manuscript unveils a new lesson, guiding him through a spiritual awakening where he must embody each teaching before progressing to the next. Themes of synchronicity, purpose, and personal responsibility are interwoven with elements of psychology, New Age spirituality, and ancient Eastern mysticism, weaving a playfully enlightening narrative.