The role of music in psychedelic therapy

[Creo]

I've found that my choice of music plays an important role in determining the nature of my ayahuasca journeys.

In my quest to ascertain the precise affect music can have, I came across some research conducted by a team of therapists at the Maryland Psychiatric Research Center in the early 70s. They experimented with the use of music in more than 600 LSD sessions over a period of several years and investigated the efficacy and function of music in modulating the psychedelic experience.

Link to the paper:

The Use of Music in Psychedelic (LSD) Psychotherapy

 

[endlessness]

I would agree. I can attest from my personal experience that music alternated with moments of silence is the best way to trip. Playing music is amazing, but even listening to the right music can be incredible.

 

[shadow]

I think that some music genres can work as a weak mind-altering tools of themselves. When combined with psychedelics definitely they can enhance the trip and determine its course. It is especially true if the trip is more personal and inner-self oriented. Electronic, ambient music can turn it into a cosmic travel beyond space and time, while classical symphonic music will bring mythological and dramatic themes.

Like endlessness I am also referring to my own experiences. I was actually inspired by one of the Maryland psychiatrists, Stanislav Grof. If you want to look further I recommend reading his book "The ultimate journey".

 

[Inner Paths]

I think that some music genres can work as a weak mind-altering tools of themselves. When combined with psychedelics definitely they can enhance the trip and determine its course. It is especially true if the trip is more personal and inner-self oriented. Electronic, ambient music can turn it into a cosmic travel beyond space and time, while classical symphonic music will bring mythological and dramatic themes.

Like endlessness I am also referring to my own experiences. I was actually inspired by one of the Maryland psychiatrists, Stanislav Grof. If you want to look further I recommend reading his book "The ultimate journey".

I'm in complete agreement there shadow. Music, IMO, combined with complete focus in a pitch dark environment can induce altered states of consciousness, probably not with as much power as with psychedelics, at least IME but music alone can definitely transport.

BTW, I have also enjoyed two of Stanislav Grof's books, "Adventures in Non Ordinary Reality" and "The Holotropic Mind". A great writer and a inspired explorer of the mind and psyche, and a very important person in the growth of psychedelic therapy.

As for music and psychedelic journeying, I find the choice of music is a massive guiding force. To cheesily quote Forrest Gump, "They go together like peas and carrots"

 

[Jin]

long live forest trance

 

[Nathanial.Dread]

Old church music and Gregorian chant really get me in a spiritual headspace when I'm tripping.