ExPLoRIng DiFfEreNt PSyChEdEliC SuBsTanCeS
We can imagine that it’s not easy to find your way in the psychedelic realm when you have no or little experience with psychedelics, and that all the different names of substances may sound quite intimidating at first. Especially when you’re new in the world of psychedelics it can be difficult to separate fact from fiction and to know where to start.
To give you a clear overview of the field, we have created this guide. In this series of articles we’ll explore the classic psychedelic substances: DMT, Ayahuasca, LSD, Iboga, Peyote and Psilocybin. We’ve written these articles with the aim to provide you with a frame of reference, so you can determine which areas deserve further investigation and inquiry.

In exploration calls, we’re often asked why we use psilocybin in our psychedelic retreat programs. There are many reasons why psilocybin is our psychedelic substance of preference. The first and most important reason however, which has been essentially decisive even before establishing our organization, concerns psilocybin’s legal status in the Netherlands, as this is one of the very few countries in the world where truffles containing natural psilocybin can be consumed and sold legally.
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We feel immensely privileged, and grateful for this, because psilocybin is the perfect psychedelic substance for us to work with. Our philosophy and method align with its attributes seamlessly. Naturally, we have shaped our programs and ceremonies around truffles containing natural psilocybin to optimize and prolong their beneficial effects.

DMT Experience
Although Psilocybin and DMT (N,N-Dimethyltryptamine) are quite similar on a molecular level, their effects are highly different. One essential fact to keep in mind, is that DMT – also referred to as the “spirit molecule” – is the most powerful psychedelic and hallucinogenic substance known to mankind.
Read the full article: How does a Psilocybin Retreat compare to a DMT experience?

Ayahuasca Retreat
In this article, we will explore the historical significance of Ayahuasca, how it’s made and how it works and how it may be applied as a tool for personal growth. We’ll discuss the effects, the differences with psilocybin, some safety concerns and the importance of responsible and ethical use.
Read the full article: What’s the difference between an Ayahuasca retreat and a Psilocybin retreat?

LSD Retreat
In this article, we’ll delve into the key differentiators between LSD retreats and psilocybin retreats. We will be focusing on the effects, approaches, safety, recent scientific research and how to determine which option aligns best with your personal wishes and requirements.
Read the full article: What’s the difference between an LSD Retreat and a Psilocybin Retreat?

Iboga Ceremony
Iboga, derived from the root bark of the Tabernanthe iboga plant, is known for its intense and transformative properties. Iboga retreats are often steeped in traditional practices, originating from the Bwiti spiritual tradition of Central Africa. These retreats facilitate deep introspection, emotional healing, and spiritual exploration.
Read the full article: What’s the difference between an Iboga Retreat and a Psilocybin Retreat?

Peyote Retreat
Peyote is a small cactus, scientifically known as Lophophora williamsii. It grows in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Peyote contains the psychoactive compound mescaline. It can offer profound experiences characterised by deep introspection and connection to nature. Peyote retreats often follow indigenous traditions.
Read the full article: What’s the difference between a Peyote Retreat and a Psilocybin Retreat?

Psilocybin Retreat
Psilocybin retreats are legal in the Netherlands and offer a gentle introduction into the psychedelic realm. At Spinoza, we feel it is important to offer our participants a educational program, starting with a thorough preparation phase, followed by a fully guided retreat and extensive support in your process of integration afterward.
We hope you enjoy our series of articles in which we compare a psilocybin retreat the classic psychedelic substances:
- What’s the difference between a Peyote Retreat and a Psilocybin Retreat?
- How does a Psilocybin Retreat compare to a DMT experience?
- What’s the difference between an Iboga Retreat and a Psilocybin Retreat?
- What’s the difference between an LSD Retreat and a Psilocybin Retreat?
- What’s the difference between an Ayahuasca retreat and a Psilocybin retreat?
Conclusion
Psychedelic retreats offer diverse pathways to self-discovery, healing, and spiritual exploration. From the immersive DMT experiences to the traditional ceremonies of Ayahuasca, LSD, Iboga, Peyote, and Psilocybin retreats, each offers its own unique effects and potential for personal transformation. When considering embarking on a psychedelic retreat, it is essential to research and choose a retreat that aligns with your intentions, comfort level, and readiness for the journey ahead.
remember TO PRIORITIZE SAFETY, SEEK guidance FROM EXPERIENCED FACILITATORS, AND APPROACH THE experience WITH AN open MIND