Magic mushrooms, also known as psilocybin mushrooms or “shrooms,” have been used for centuries in various cultures for spiritual and medicinal purposes.   Today, they are increasingly embraced for their potential mental health benefits, including managing anxiety, depression, and PTSD.   If you’ve decided to explore the world of shrooms but are unsure how to proceed, this guide is for you.   We’ll walk you through everything from preparation to dosage to how to handle your first experience—so you feel informed and confident every step of the way.

Preparation

Set and Setting: Choose a comfortable, familiar, and safe environment.   Ensure you have no responsibilities or distractions for at least 4-6 hours.   Ideally, the space should be quiet and relaxing, with soft lighting and comfortable seating.
Mindset: Approach the experience with a positive and open mindset.   Reflect on any specific issues or questions you want to explore during the trip.   Avoid using shrooms if you are in a negative emotional state or have unresolved mental health issues.

Dosage

Microdose: 0.1-0.3 grams.   This can enhance mood and creativity without significant psychoactive effects.
Low Dose: 0.5-2 grams.   Produces mild perceptual changes and introspection.
Moderate Dose: 2-3.5 grams.   Leads to stronger hallucinations and emotional depth.
High Dose: 3.5-5 grams.   Results in intense, potentially life-altering experiences.
Heroic Dose: 5+ grams.   Extremely intense and not recommended for beginners.
For first-time users, start with a low dose to gauge your sensitivity.

Consumption Methods

Raw Consumption: Simply chew and swallow the dried mushrooms.   This method may cause stomach discomfort.
Shroom Tea: Boil water, let it cool slightly, steep the mushrooms for 15-20 minutes, strain, and drink.   This method is easier on the stomach and brings on effects more quickly.
Lemon Tek: Grind the mushrooms, mix with lemon juice for 20 minutes, then consume.   This method is believed to enhance effects and shorten the trip duration.
Capsules: Grind the mushrooms into a powder and encapsulate them.   This allows for precise dosing and eliminates taste issues.
Edibles: Incorporate ground mushrooms into foods like chocolates, smoothies, or peanut butter sandwiches.

During the Experience
Stay Grounded: If you start to feel overwhelmed, focus on your breathing and remind yourself that the effects are temporary.
Have a Trip-Sitter: If possible, have a trusted, sober person with you to help guide you through the experience and ensure your safety.

Aftercare
Integration: Reflect on your experience and consider how you can apply any insights or realizations to your daily life.
Rest: Give yourself time to rest and recover.   Avoid taking large doses too frequently;   allow at least 3-4 weeks between trips.

Safety Precautions
Avoid Mixing Substances: Do not mix psilocybin with alcohol or other drugs, as this can lead to unpredictable effects and increased risk of adverse reactions.
Proper Identification: Ensure you have accurately identified the mushroom species to avoid toxic contaminants.
Consult a Professional: If you have a personal or family history of mental health issues, consult a healthcare professional before using magic mushrooms.

By following these guidelines, you can have a safer and more enriching experience with magic mushrooms.