Magic mushrooms are making an incredible comeback in recent years; particularly due to the increasing research on psilocybin’s positive wellness benefits in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, addictions and more.

Beyond therapeutic or microdosing applications, mushrooms can offer a magical, spiritual, even a euphoric psychedelic trip with friends. As shroom enthusiasts ourselves, we have outlined the top 5 “Ws” to consider before planning your special day to help you enjoy a positive, safe, memorable experience.

Before we get started, let’s talk about ‘set and setting,’ which will shape your psychedelic journey. The ‘set’ refers to your mindset (and that of everyone involved). It includes moods, attitudes, perceptions and even your individual approach to psychedelics. The ‘setting,’ on the other hand, is your physical environment and all that is in it.

Setting includes your actual location and the people you are with, as well as food, music, weather and general surroundings. When set and setting are carefully considered prior to a psychedelic trip, then the experience is likely to be so much better.

We know that one’s mindset directly impacts a shroom trip, so choose your companions wisely when planning. Stick with a few close people you know and trust. If someone has been in a negative, depressed or angry state (or if they are suspicious about taking magic mushrooms), it can worsen when taking hallucinogens. Not only could they have a bad trip, but it could also bring others in the group down too.

If you are taking shrooms alone, find a ‘magic mushroom sitter’ who can support you or check in with you in case you have a difficult trip.

There are some important ‘whats’ to consider as well. First, what activities do you want to do? Keep in mind that your psychedelic trip will unfold into its mystical, magical journey all on its own, where a single tree, houseplant or cloud can inspire and entertain you for hours. You may laugh, dance, giggle, stare at your cat, or explore the true meaning of life! It’s all perfect.

Some people find that a basic art project like water colours is a blast, or try a nature walk, picnic, or low-key camping in your yard. Don’t plan anything crowded or complicated, even cooking a meal. The less you need to think about traffic, sharp knives or other potential dangers, the better.

What to expect? That’s the mystery! You wanted a psychedelic, transformational trip – and that’s what you will get. You will feel, see and sense things intensely … and differently. Most people say they experienced a variety of sensations, including: love, gratitude, loss of ego, creativity, joy, hilarity, inspiration, spirituality, deep insights, hallucinations, and much, much more.

Your setting influences your experience. Psilocybin, taken in moderate or ‘mega’ doses has an intense impact on brain functions such as perception and coordination. As a result, it is important to be in a safe, comfortable environment when planning your psychedelic trip – especially if it’s your first time.

Your home or a friend’s place is great, particularly if you can be near nature. Camping or parks can be fun, but not if strangers are close; you will want a private space. Your setting should feel carefree – no kids to worry about, work responsibilities or chores to get done that day.

Unlike LSD, MDMA, cocaine, etc. where a busy club or festival might be energizing, a magic mushroom trip is often best done in a calmer location where everyone can keep an eye on one another, at least until you better understand its effects.

Once you have your who, what and where sorted, be sure to pick your ‘when.’ Just make sure it is a day off work for all involved. The effects of psilocybin can last for several hours, and it can take 30 – 60+ minutes to take effect. With this is mind, it’s a good idea to reserve the better part of a day.

Order your magic mushrooms from a safe, reliable, Canadian dispensary in advance so you have them ready. Clear your schedule, turn off your phone, stock up on some snacks and let people know you are busy. If you plan on being outdoors, schedule your trip around a good forecast for ultimate enjoyment. Nature is particularly magical when on shrooms!

For a beginner, you may be wondering why there are guidelines to doing magic mushrooms. It’s just to help your journey be the best it can be.

One question we get a lot of people asking is, “Why do shrooms have to be eaten?” It is so the psilocybin in the dried mushrooms can turn into psilocin – the psychedelic compound that is activated in the stomach. Once you have carefully measured/weighed your dose, eat them plain, ground up, as a delicious chocolate edible, or drink a cup of magic mushroom tea. First timers should start with about 2.5 to 3.5 grams of dried shrooms. Psychedelic impacts are felt sooner (and more intensely) if you have an empty stomach. You may feel nausea at first, so have a light snack beforehand.

Why should people avoid drinking alcohol or take any other drugs while taking mushrooms? Trust us – the magic mushrooms are enough, and you don’t want to mix them with any other mood-altering substance.

Learning more about the who, what, where when and why to do magic mushrooms help you be better prepared for your first, or next great trip. Each time is different, and no two people will have the same experience. Psychedelic trips are naturally unpredictable, but with a bit of planning, your likelihood of a good time is increased.

Have fun, friends! If you have any questions, you can always connect with the team at Blue Magic Mushrooms or check out our frequently asked questions.