black and yellow banner image for things to do on mushrooms blog

Things to Do on Mushrooms: A Guide to Making the Most of Your Psychedelic Experience

Psychedelic mushrooms have been around for centuries, used for everything from spiritual ceremonies to personal exploration. Whether you’re new to the world of psilocybin or a seasoned traveler, finding things to do on mushrooms helps you to get the most out of your experience can lead to deeper insights, enhanced creativity, and a more enjoyable journey overall. 

This guide is designed to walk you through some of the most enriching and meaningful activities you can engage in while on mushrooms, all while keeping in mind the importance of set and setting. Let’s dive in!

Understand Your Mindset

Before you start thinking about all the fun things you can do on mushrooms, it’s important to check in with yourself mentally. The way you feel going into a psychedelic experience can significantly influence your journey. Setting the right mindset is key to having a smooth and enjoyable time.

Start With Intention

Many people use magic mushrooms for self-exploration, creativity, or simply to experience life from a different perspective. Having a clear intention helps guide the experience, and even if the trip takes unexpected turns, your mindset can help you navigate through. 

Whether it’s exploring your inner self or just seeing how things look through a different lens, setting an intention will add depth to your journey.

Address Anxiety

It’s natural to feel some anxiety when embarking on a psychedelic trip, especially if it’s your first time. Mushrooms can amplify feelings, both good and bad, so if you’re anxious about something in your life, it may come up during the experience. 

However, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Embracing it with mindfulness can help you work through these feelings. Remind yourself that you’re in control and that everything you feel is temporary.

blue and black magic mushrooms

Choose the Right Setting

The idea of “set and setting” is one of the most important factors when it comes to a successful mushroom trip. 

Set refers to your mindset, and setting refers to your physical environment. The right setting can help elevate your experience and ensure that it’s safe and enjoyable.

Indoor vs. Outdoor

If you’re someone who enjoys being surrounded by nature, an outdoor setting can be ideal. Being in the middle of a forest or overlooking a peaceful lake might provide the serene, awe-inspiring scenery you need. 

However, if you’re new to psychedelics or prefer a controlled environment, staying indoors might be a better option. A cozy room with soft lighting, cushions, and blankets can create the perfect environment to relax and let go.

Safety First

Make sure your environment is safe. You want to avoid any places where you might hurt yourself or feel uncomfortable. If you’re outdoors, ensure you have a trusted friend with you to help guide you through the experience.

Start With a Small Dose

If you’re new to mushrooms, it’s always a good idea to start with a small dose and work your way up. Dosage varies from person to person, and even small amounts can have a powerful effect.

Microdosing: The Smart Start

Microdosing is the practice of taking a very small amount of mushrooms, just enough to feel the subtle effects without experiencing a full-blown trip. It’s ideal for enhancing creativity and boosting mood. If you want to test how mushrooms affect you but aren’t quite ready for a heavy trip, microdosing is a great starting point.

Gauge Your Comfort Level

As you get more familiar with how mushrooms affect your body and mind, you can experiment with slightly larger doses. Keep in mind that the effects vary depending on the strain, your body, and your mindset. A good rule of thumb is to start slow and increase gradually to avoid any overwhelming experiences.

Prepare Your Space

Before diving into your trip, make sure your space is prepped for relaxation and enjoyment. The last thing you want is to be distracted by clutter or discomfort when you’re deep in a psychedelic experience.

Clean and Organized

A clean space is a calming space. Take some time before you start your trip to declutter and tidy up your environment. When things are in order, your mind is more likely to be at ease, allowing you to focus on the experience rather than external distractions.

Atmosphere and Ambiance

Lighting plays a huge role in creating the right environment. Dim lighting or candles can create a soft, calming glow that enhances the experience. Consider setting up some cozy spots to lounge in—pillows, blankets, and cushions will help you feel more at ease. Also, have some water or snacks nearby to stay hydrated and energized if needed.

magic mushrooms on a cutting board

Meditation and Mindfulness

One of the most rewarding things you can do on mushrooms is meditate. Mushrooms often heighten awareness, making it easier to connect with your mind and body. Whether you’re an experienced meditator or a beginner, this can be a powerful tool for self-discovery.

You can try following a guided meditation, which can help you focus and navigate the experience. Alternatively, you can let your thoughts wander freely and see where the journey takes you. Some people find it helpful to focus on their breath or a mantra to stay grounded during the experience.

Mindfulness helps you stay present in the moment. By paying attention to your breath, your body sensations, or the environment around you, you can cultivate a deep sense of connection to your surroundings. This practice can also help you work through difficult emotions if they arise during the trip.

Listen to Music

Music is a fantastic companion when you’re on mushrooms. It has the ability to enhance your emotions and open you up to new sensory experiences. The right music can take you deeper into your journey and elevate your mood.

The Best Music for a Trip

When choosing music, go for something that suits the vibe you’re going for. Ambient, instrumental, or classical music works great for creating a calming atmosphere. Some people enjoy electronic or psychedelic music, as the beats and rhythms can feel more intense and immersive. Whatever you choose, let the music guide you.

Music on mushrooms often sounds more vivid, and you might find that you connect with it on a deeper level. Take some time to really listen and appreciate the layers, textures, and nuances that you may normally miss in your day-to-day life.

Nature Walks

If you’re in a natural setting, going for a walk can be one of the most awe-inspiring activities on mushrooms. Nature has a way of taking on new meaning when you’re in an altered state, and mushrooms can deepen that connection.

Observing the Beauty Around You

Mushrooms can heighten your senses, allowing you to notice patterns, colors, and textures you might not normally see. Whether you’re walking through a forest, a park, or along the beach, take a moment to stop and really observe the natural world around you. Notice the way the sunlight filters through the leaves, or the intricate details of flowers and rocks.

Being outside can also be grounding, helping you stay connected to the Earth during a psychedelic experience. The feeling of grass beneath your feet, or the warmth of the sun on your skin, can be comforting as you explore your inner world.

magic mushrooms growing on forest floor

Deep Conversations

Magic mushrooms have a unique way of fostering empathy and deepening conversations. Whether you’re with a close friend or in a small group, the experience can bring people closer together.

Sharing Insights

People often report that they feel more open, honest, and vulnerable when they’re on mushrooms. If you’re in a group, take the time to share what you’re experiencing. You’ll likely be surprised by the profound, thoughtful conversations that emerge. It’s not uncommon to have a breakthrough or gain clarity on certain life issues.

Since mushrooms encourage emotional openness, they provide an opportunity for deeper connections with others. You may find that you understand others better, and they may understand you in ways they hadn’t before.

Artistic Exploration

If you’re someone who enjoys being creative, mushrooms can help you tap into your artistic side. Many people find that their ability to think outside the box and their appreciation for beauty is heightened under the influence of mushrooms.

Drawing, Painting, or Sculpting

Mushrooms can enhance your visual thinking and unlock new ideas for artistic expression. Grab some art supplies—colored pencils, paints, or even clay—and let your imagination run wild. Don’t worry about the outcome—just let the process unfold organically.

The beauty of mushrooms lies in their ability to shift your perspective. You might see patterns, colors, and shapes in ways that you never have before. This can open the door to new forms of artistic expression.

Watch Visual Art

If you’re not in the mood to create but still want to experience art, watching visual art can be incredibly rewarding while on mushrooms. Whether you’re at a gallery or watching a film, the right visuals can amplify the psychedelic experience.

Recommended Art Forms

Surrealist and abstract art tend to resonate with people on mushrooms, as they often feature dreamlike, otherworldly imagery. You might find yourself captivated by the layers and symbolism within a painting or sculpture that you would normally overlook.

Virtual Art Experiences

In today’s digital age, you can explore virtual art galleries or online exhibitions, providing an immersive art experience from the comfort of your home. Let the art take you on a visual journey.

Journaling Your Thoughts

As your trip unfolds, you may find that new thoughts and insights begin to arise. Journaling is a great way to capture these moments of clarity. The act of writing down your thoughts can help you process the experience and reflect on the lessons you’ve learned.

Why Journaling Helps

Writing during your trip can also provide a sense of grounding. It allows you to express yourself and make sense of the flood of thoughts that may come up. Later, you can look back at what you wrote and reflect on how the experience impacted you.

Prompts for Reflection

If you’re unsure where to start, try a few journal prompts. Ask yourself questions like, “What am I learning about myself right now?” or “How do I feel in this moment?” These prompts can help guide your reflections.

Engage with Movement or Dance

Mushrooms can make your body feel more connected to the music or environment around you. Whether you’re at home, in nature, or with friends, moving your body can deepen the psychedelic experience and enhance the joy of the trip.

Feeling the Rhythm

One of the most enjoyable ways to engage with the mushrooms’ effects is through movement. Whether it’s dancing to your favorite music or just flowing with the rhythm of your body, movement allows you to release energy and enjoy your heightened sense of awareness. Dance freely, even if it’s just to sway or stretch. Let go of any inhibitions and let the music or your inner rhythm guide you.

Stretching and Yoga

If dancing isn’t your thing, consider some gentle yoga or stretching. Mushrooms can make your body feel more fluid, and stretching during your trip can enhance that sensation. Focus on the way your muscles move and feel, appreciating every stretch and breath.

Try a New Hobby

Mushrooms can give you a fresh perspective on everyday activities. If you’re looking for something fun and stimulating to do while on a trip, trying out a new hobby could lead to discovering a newfound passion or skill.

Cooking or Baking: If you’ve never tried cooking while on mushrooms, it can be a delight. The sensory experience of preparing food can feel heightened, and you may find that even simple tasks like chopping vegetables or mixing ingredients become a deeply enjoyable experience. Plus, you get to savor the food afterward, which can be a rewarding part of the trip.

Photography or Writing: If you’re artistically inclined, mushrooms can offer new ways to see the world through the lens of a camera or pen. Taking photos can feel like capturing moments of magic, while journaling can help organize your thoughts or express what you’re feeling at the moment.

Crafting or DIY Projects: Working with your hands can be meditative. If you’ve never tried knitting, building small projects, or even painting figurines, mushrooms may encourage you to explore these activities with a sense of curiosity and fun.

Watch Movies or Visual Content

Movies can be an immersive experience when you’re on mushrooms, offering a captivating escape into fantastical worlds or thought-provoking narratives. Depending on your mood, you can opt for something light-hearted or deeply philosophical.

Trippy Movies or Psychedelic Visuals

If you’re looking to amplify the effects of mushrooms with visuals, consider watching trippy films or psychedelic art. Movies like Enter the Void or 2001: A Space Odyssey are well-known for their mind-bending visuals. Alternatively, animated films like Fantastic Planet or The Midnight Gospel can take you on a psychedelic journey that feels like a visual extension of your trip.

Thought-Provoking Documentaries

If you’re more into deep, insightful content over movie watching, documentaries can be a fantastic choice. Watch a documentary about a subject that interests you, whether it’s nature, science, or philosophy. Being on mushrooms may help you absorb the information differently, allowing you to see connections and insights that would have otherwise gone unnoticed.

Enjoy Comfort Food

On mushrooms, food takes on new textures, flavors, and sensations. If you’re feeling hungry during your trip, the experience of eating can be incredibly enjoyable, both in terms of taste and the tactile sensations of eating itself.

Since your senses are heightened, you may find that even the simplest meal feels extraordinary. Whether it’s a favorite comfort food like pizza, ice cream, or fruit, savor each bite and focus on how the flavors dance on your tongue. Mindful eating while on mushrooms can deepen your appreciation for food and its textures.

Experiment With New Recipes

If you’re up for it, try creating a new dish or snack. Mushrooms can enhance your creativity, making cooking feel more like an adventure. Try making a new dish, even if it’s just a snack or a simple recipe, and experiment with flavors you wouldn’t usually consider.

Explore Your Inner Self

Mushrooms are often used for deep introspection, allowing you to look within and gain insights into your thoughts, emotions, and behavior. If you’re interested in self-discovery, mushrooms can serve as a powerful tool for personal growth.

Reflect on Your Life

While on mushrooms, you might find that you gain clarity on areas of your life that have been weighing on you. Spend some time contemplating your personal journey, your relationships, and your future goals. Take note of any insights or realizations that arise, as these can serve as valuable guides for your growth moving forward.

Journal Your Insights

As thoughts and insights flow, jot them down. Writing about your inner thoughts helps you process what you’re experiencing, and when you reflect on your journal later, you may discover patterns and ideas that can lead to meaningful change in your life.

Connect with Spirituality

Mushrooms have long been used in spiritual practices for their ability to help individuals connect with a higher consciousness, the universe, or the divine. If you’re interested in spiritual exploration, mushrooms can offer a profound way to deepen your understanding of the world around you.

Meditation and Prayer

Take some time during your trip to engage in prayer or meditation. Whether you’re seeking connection with your higher self or feeling a sense of unity with nature, mushrooms can help you feel more attuned to these spiritual practices. Use this time to reflect on your spirituality and explore your beliefs.

Visualization

Try using visualization techniques to imagine yourself in a peaceful place or in a state of harmony with the universe. Mushrooms can enhance your ability to visualize vividly, helping you create mental imagery that feels tangible and real.

Get Creative With Photography

Mushrooms often alter your perception of light, colors, and textures, making photography a fascinating activity. If you enjoy capturing moments with a camera, mushrooms might open up new perspectives and ways of seeing the world.

Try taking photos from different angles or perspectives than usual. Mushrooms can give you a unique viewpoint on your surroundings, so use your camera to capture those subtle shifts. Focus on the small details that might normally go unnoticed—the way sunlight plays on a surface, or the textures of everyday objects.

Nature can look even more magical when viewed under the influence of mushrooms. If you’re outdoors, use your camera to capture the vivid colors of plants, the sky, or a forest. Photography can be a meditative and rewarding activity, allowing you to document the beauty of the moment.

underside of yellow magic mushrooms

Contemplate Time and Space

One of the most common effects of mushrooms is the distortion of time and space. If you’re looking for a deep, mind-bending experience, spend some time contemplating these concepts.

Time Perception

On mushrooms, you may experience time as moving more slowly or quickly. Try focusing on how time feels in the moment—whether it stretches or compresses. This exercise can lead to interesting insights about your relationship with time and how you perceive it in everyday life.

Space and Your Environment

Similarly, mushrooms can alter your sense of space. You might feel like you’re floating or that your surroundings are expanding. Take some time to explore these sensations, as they can reveal interesting thoughts about how you experience the world.

Develop New Ideas

Many people report experiencing bursts of creativity and insight while on mushrooms. If you’ve been struggling with a project, looking for new ideas, or seeking inspiration, mushrooms can provide a fresh perspective.

Write Down Ideas

As you journey through your experience, new ideas may come to you. Whether it’s for a creative project, business venture, or personal goal, mushrooms can help break down mental barriers and open up new ways of thinking. Keep a notebook or voice recorder handy to capture your thoughts as they arise.

Mushrooms often help people connect seemingly unrelated ideas. If you’ve been feeling creatively blocked, mushrooms might provide the perfect opportunity to let your imagination flow freely. Let your mind wander and see where the journey takes you.

Connect with Others

If you’re tripping with friends, the experience can foster deeper connections and a sense of camaraderie. Sharing insights and experiences can enhance your bond with others and make the trip more meaningful.

Mushrooms can make you feel more open and emotionally vulnerable. Take this opportunity to engage in deep, heartfelt conversations with others. You may be surprised by the wisdom that emerges, both from within yourself and from the people around you.

It’s important to be mindful of the people you’re with during a trip. Ensure you’re surrounded by trusted friends who can provide emotional support if needed. A safe and positive group dynamic can enhance the experience and help you navigate any challenges that arise.

Practice Gratitude

Practicing gratitude while on mushrooms can deepen your sense of appreciation for life. Whether you’re feeling thankful for the present moment or reflecting on your experiences, cultivating gratitude can enhance your trip and provide a sense of peace.

Take a moment to reflect on the things you’re grateful for. Whether it’s the people in your life, the beauty of nature, or your personal journey, expressing gratitude can help center you during your trip. You might find yourself feeling a profound sense of connection to the world around you.

Let Go and Surrender

Perhaps the most important thing you can do while on mushrooms is to let go of control. Surrendering to the experience allows you to fully embrace whatever arises, whether it’s joy, confusion, or clarity.

Trust that whatever happens during your trip is exactly what you need in that moment. If difficult emotions come up, allow yourself to feel them fully without resistance. Mushrooms often show us what we need to see, even if it’s uncomfortable at times.

When you stop trying to control every aspect of the trip, you allow yourself to flow with the experience. Let go of expectations, and allow yourself to fully immerse in the journey. The rewards of surrendering can be profound, leading to new insights and personal growth.

Conclusion

Mushrooms can open up a world of possibilities for creativity, personal growth, and spiritual exploration. By approaching your experience with intention, setting the right environment, and engaging in activities that resonate with you, you can make the most of your psychedelic journey. 

Whether you choose to meditate, create art, or explore new ideas, there’s no shortage of enriching activities to try while on mushrooms. Just remember, the key to a positive experience is safety, mindfulness, and a willingness to surrender to the flow of the trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do mushrooms show up on a drug test?

Mushrooms, specifically psilocybin mushrooms, are not typically included in standard drug tests. These tests are usually designed to detect substances like THC, cocaine, opioids, and amphetamines. However, there are specialized tests that can detect psilocybin or psilocin (the active compounds in mushrooms), but they are much less common and not typically used for routine drug screenings. If you’re concerned about a specific test, it’s always a good idea to check the test’s guidelines or consult with a professional.

2. Can you have a bad trip on mushrooms?

Yes, it is possible to experience a bad trip while on mushrooms, although it’s not the norm. A “bad trip” can involve feelings of anxiety, paranoia, confusion, or overwhelming fear. The intensity of the out of body experience can vary based on factors like your mental state before taking mushrooms, the environment, and the dose. A bad trip can be unsettling, but it typically doesn’t last forever.

To help prevent it, try to ensure you’re in a safe and comfortable environment, with people you trust. Having a positive mindset and setting intentions before your trip can also help promote a more enjoyable experience.

If you do find yourself in distress during a trip, focusing on your breathing and reminding yourself that the effects are temporary can help you stay grounded.