What is the concept of Psychology and Advaita Vedanta, and how does it conflict with modern psychology and psychedelic experiences?
In this article, I explore the possible shortfalls of modern-day psychology regarding unity consciousness or non-dual experiences. I’m not suggesting that psychology doesn’t play a role in the journey of self-awareness and trauma management. However, I’m interested in delving into why psychology may not fully encompass an aspect of human wellness.
Many find psychology helpful, while others feel it does not affect their mental wellness, and they are turning to alternative practices and psychedelics in the hopes of finding liberation from suffering. All suffering in humans is the same. We all suffer the mind regardless of the situation or event.
With the increase in popularity of psychedelic therapy and retreats, many are familiar with the concept of integration. It is important to understand that each psychedelic provides its unique experience; this article refers to substances that induce a sense of unity consciousness, like 5 Meo Dmt or Bufo Alvarius. It is not to say you can’t have a similar experience with other substances.
It is important to note that non-dual experiences can be obtained through meditation, self-realisation and self-enquiry.
What is the difference between a Unity Consciousness and a Dualistic psychedelic experience?
The distinction between a non-dual and dualistic psychedelic experience lies in the perception and the sense of self during the journey.
Non-Dual Psychedelic Experience
In a non-dual experience, the boundaries between the self and the external world tend to dissolve or blur. There is a profound sense of interconnectedness, unity, and oneness. The individual may feel an intimate connection with everything, perceiving a universal consciousness or a transcendent reality.
Concepts of time, space, and individual identity may lose their conventional meaning, leading to a perception of an undivided and timeless reality.
The experience often transcends dualities, such as good and bad, self and other, as the individual recognises a fundamental unity underlying all existence.
Dualistic Psychedelic Experience
In a dualistic experience, the separation between the self and the external world remains pronounced.
The individual may still perceive distinct boundaries between themselves and others and between the self and the surrounding environment. Dualistic experiences may involve intensified emotions, vivid contrasts, and a heightened awareness of the individual’s identity and the external world.
The sense of time and space may be more conventional, and a clearer distinction between subjective and objective realities may characterise the experience.
These categories represent general tendencies, and individual experiences can vary widely. Some psychedelic journeys may incorporate elements of both non-duality and duality at different stages. The interpretation and impact of these experiences often depend on the individual’s mindset, the context of the journey, and the specific psychedelic substance involved.
Is Psychedelic Integration a form of Psycology?
Yes, the integration practice associated with psychedelic experiences has a psychological dimension. While it may not strictly adhere to traditional therapeutic models, it aligns with principles and practices found in psychology, especially in transpersonal psychology and psychotherapy.
Interestingly, those who have found psychology somewhat helpful or not at all are once again embracing a similar perspective. Might this be the reason that there are so many people who have a long resume of psychedelic experiences that have made no true progress?
It’s interesting to note that standard psychology practices may indeed be more directly applicable and potentially beneficial for individuals who predominantly have dualistic psychedelic experiences. In dualistic experiences, where a clear distinction between self and external reality is maintained, psychological frameworks that focus on individual identity, cognitive processes, and emotional well-being can be particularly relevant.
So what is the answer?
It’s crucial to team up with experienced psychedelic facilitators who prioritise your safety with thorough screening. Some portray psychedelic experiences as miracle cures, especially when integrated well by facilitators trained in integration or trauma. This blend makes it more of a psychological science than a spiritual journey. Psychedelic Integration, Psychology and Advaita Vedanta
A valuable crossover deserves consideration. It could potentially lead to longer-lasting positive results for those seeking liberation from suffering. It’s about finding that balance between the psychological and spiritual aspects of the experience.
What is Advaita Vedanta
Psychedelic Integration, Psychology and Advaita Vedanta – Advaita Vedanta is a concept taught by many Sages and Gurus like Ramana Maharishi. Here, we will focus on the main starting point and this concept through the teacher Shankara (Adi Shankara)
Advaita Vedanta, a philosophical system attributed to Adi Shankara, revolves around non-duality (Advaita). Shankara emphasises the understanding that the ultimate reality, known as Brahman, is devoid of any diversity or distinctions. This non-dual Brahman is the only true and eternal reality, transcending the perceived diversity of the world.
According to Advaita Vedanta, the individual self (Atman) is identical to Brahman. The apparent differences and dualities we experience in the world are considered to be a result of ignorance (avidya). Through self-inquiry (atma-vichara) and spiritual practices, one can overcome this ignorance and realise the unity of the self with Brahman.
Shankara’s teachings emphasise the importance of discerning between the eternal and the transient, the real and the unreal. By recognising that the ultimate reality is beyond the realm of names and forms, individuals can attain liberation (moksha) and break free from the cycle of birth and death (samsara).
In the context of your spiritual mastery and work in holistic health, the principles of Advaita Vedanta can be integrated to encourage a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Recognising the non-dual nature of reality may enhance your holistic approach to addressing health, emotional, and psychological conditions, aligning with the profound insights of Advaita philosophy.
Advaita Vedanta and Psycology
The concept of oneness in Advaita Vedanta, where the individual self is considered identical to the ultimate reality (Brahman), may indeed conflict with certain aspects of modern-day psychology, particularly approaches that externalise experiences and emphasise the need for counselling. It is essential to recognise that these perspectives often operate within different frameworks and paradigms.
Advaita Vedanta encourages individuals to look inward, recognising the unity of the self with the ultimate reality. It proposes that true happiness and liberation come from transcending the dualities of the material world.
On the other hand, modern psychology, with its counselling and therapeutic approaches, often focuses on external factors, environmental influences, and the impact of past experiences on an individual’s mental and emotional well-being.
The conflict arises in the differing emphasis on the source of issues and the paths to healing. While Advaita Vedanta suggests that realising oneness can lead to liberation from suffering, modern psychology often explores the intricacies of external events, childhood experiences, and interpersonal relationships as factors influencing mental health.
The Crossover between Psychology and Advaita Vedanta
The crossover between psychology, integration practices, and Advaita Vedanta can offer a rich and nuanced approach to understanding and supporting individuals on their journey of self-discovery and well-being. Here are some points of potential crossover:
Non-Duality and Oneness
Advaita Vedanta’s emphasis on non-duality and recognising the oneness of the self with the ultimate reality can complement psychological approaches by providing a spiritual framework for understanding the interconnectedness of all aspects of life. This perspective may contribute to unity and interconnectedness in psychological healing where one’s life experiences are not solely externalised, causing victimhood, seeing the cause and, therefore, the solution in others.
The process of integrating insights gained from psychedelics aligns with the Advaitic idea of transcending the illusory nature of the ego and recognising the deeper, unified self.
Mindfulness and Self-Inquiry
Practices from Advaita Vedanta, such as mindfulness and self-inquiry, can be integrated into psychological approaches. Mindfulness practices align with many therapeutic models and enhance self-awareness and emotional regulation. Self-inquiry, a key practice in Advaita Vedanta, can complement psychological introspection, aiding individuals in understanding the nature of their thoughts and beliefs.
Narrative Reconstruction
Both psychological therapies and Advaita Vedanta recognise the importance of the narrative in shaping one’s identity. The Advaitic perspective of seeing through the illusion of a separate self can contribute to a deeper understanding of personal narratives and support individuals in reconstructing a more liberated and expansive sense of self.
Holistic Well-Being
Advaita Vedanta’s holistic approach to well-being, considering physical, mental, and spiritual aspects, aligns with the holistic principles found in many psychological approaches. Integrating these perspectives can provide a comprehensive framework for addressing various dimensions of an individual’s health and development.
Spiritual Guidance in Integration – Psychology and Advaita Vedanta
For those undergoing psychedelic integration, incorporating spiritual guidance rooted in Advaita Vedanta can offer a broader perspective on the nature of consciousness, identity, and the purpose of life. This can be especially relevant in supporting individuals as they navigate existential questions arising from their psychedelic experiences.
However, it’s important to note that these perspectives are not mutually exclusive. Many individuals find a balance by integrating spiritual practices, such as mindfulness and self-inquiry, with psychological approaches to address mental health challenges. The holistic approach may offer a unique opportunity to bridge these perspectives, incorporating spiritual wisdom into psychological counselling to provide a more comprehensive approach to healing.
Ultimately, resolving this apparent conflict may lie in recognising the diversity of human experiences and the varied paths to well-being. Integrating spiritual teachings with modern psychological approaches can offer a more inclusive and personalised approach to addressing the complex and multifaceted nature of individual health and healing.
Psychedelic Integration, Psychology and Advaita Vedanta
Psychedelic Integration, Psychology and Advaita Vedanta
Psychedelic Integration, Psychology and Advaita Vedanta
Psychedelic Integration, Psychology and Advaita Vedanta
Psychedelic Integration, Psychology and Advaita Vedanta
Psychedelic Integration, Psychology and Advaita Vedanta