No Thanks to Microdosing. Hell Ya to Minidosing! A Personal Journey

When I first began exploring psilocybin during the pandemic, I was drawn to the concept of microdosing. The idea of subtle enhancements to creativity and well-being without the intensity of a full-blown trip was appealing to me. And I did try it. But microdosing just didn't seem to click for me.

The practice, which involves taking an imperceptible dose about once every three days, left me feeling meh. Far from the heightened focus and productivity promised by the tech bros who often write about it, I found myself struggling to engage with the demands of daily life.

There were some positive effects of microdosing. I was optimistic and energetic on dose days. Which was great. But I couldn’t focus my attention where I wanted it. I was too scattered to sit down and write, especially when a deadline loomed. I had a headache, which made me want to lie down and close my eyes.?

Microdosing wasn't for me

All of this forced me to? accept that the conventional microdosing routine wasn't aligning with my goals and lifestyle. I realized that psilocybin doesn’t make me more productive, and that’s fine. Microdosing made me realize: Productivity is overrated!

But I wasn't ready to give up on the idea of integrating small doses of psilocybin into my life. What I really want in my life in 2024 is enjoyment. And I'm convinced psilocybin helps me enjoy everyday experiences more fully. I love how it allows me to invite more pleasure, more ritual, more nature, more ceremony. I wanted more of of all of those things, so I continued to experiment.?

What is minidosing?

By identifying my unique personal intention with psilocbyin, I ended up changing to a routine I’ve been calling minidosing. I take a mildly perceptible dose of mushrooms every three months. And I always plan my dose day on a weekend, when I can be in a ceremonial mindset.?

This adjustment has allowed me to create a dedicated space and time for myself on dose days, free from the pressures of work or other obligations. I get to enjoy!

Self-exploration is my intention

Setting aside this time became a chance to explore the depths of my body, emotions and consciousness without the constraints of a hectic schedule. For me, this was a marked departure from the utilitarian nature of microdosing for producitivity.

On minidosing days, I find solace in nature, I revel in food, flowers and cats. I embrace opportunities to slow down. It’s a celebration of myself and my connection to nature. It’s a chance to reconnect with the Divine Feminine. Sometimes my husband is invited, sometimes not. Sometimes friends are invited, sometimes not.

Psychedelics require self-awareness

This shift in approach opened up new understanding for me, highlighting the importance of personalization. Finding a rhythm, dose and setting that resonates with your goals, preferences, age and stage is part of the psychedelic experience.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to psilocybin—or any entheogenic substance. That’s the beauty of the psychedelic process. The key lies in approaching these experiences with self-awareness and personal intention. Your unique needs and desires are at the very centre of the process, and self-agency is an inherent part of psychedelic healing.