Boost Your Immune System To The Moon

Immunomodulators have become a cornerstone in the quest for improved health and wellness, offering a bridge between traditional medicinal practices and modern scientific understanding. These substances, varying widely from herbs to vitamins, play a crucial role in modulating the body’s immune response, making them invaluable in maintaining health and combating diseases. 

In this comprehensive exploration, we’ll delve into the significance of immunomodulators, with a spotlight on astragalus, Reishi mushrooms, vitamin D, among others, guided by insights from renowned experts like Dr. Mercado and Dr. Eric Berg. Their perspectives will not only inform but also inspire individuals to embrace a proactive approach to health management.

Understanding Immunomodulators

Immunomodulators are substances that can either upregulate or downregulate the immune system, depending on the body’s needs. This duality is what makes them particularly fascinating, as they can help boost the immune response against infections and diseases, while also calming an overactive immune system in conditions like allergies and autoimmune diseases.

The Power of Plants and Vitamins

Astragalus

Astragalus, a herb revered in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries, has been shown to have significant immunomodulating properties. Dr. Mercado, a proponent of integrating traditional remedies with modern medicine, notes, “Astragalus stands out not just for its immune-boosting capabilities, but also for its potential in cardiovascular protection and anti-inflammatory effects. Its adaptogenic properties help the body fight stress and diseases.”

Reishi Mushrooms

Known as the “Mushroom of Immortality” in some cultures, Reishi mushrooms are another potent immunomodulator. Dr. Eric Berg highlights their importance: “Reishi mushrooms are not just food; they’re powerful medicinal substances that can help regulate the immune system, fight cancer cells, and improve liver detoxification. Their adaptogenic qualities make them an excellent resource for managing stress and enhancing overall vitality.”

Vitamin D

Perhaps one of the most crucial vitamins for immune health, vitamin D plays a pivotal role beyond bone health. “Vitamin D deficiency is a widespread issue, with profound implications for immune function,” states Dr. Mercado. “Adequate vitamin D levels are essential for activating our immune defenses and reducing the risk for infections, autoimmune diseases, and even some types of cancer.”

Echinacea

Echinacea, a genus of herbaceous plants native to North America, has been traditionally used for centuries by Indigenous peoples for its therapeutic properties. Modern research supports its use in preventing and treating the common cold. The active compounds in echinacea, including alkamides, polysaccharides, and glycoproteins, have been found to stimulate the immune system. They do this by promoting the activity of immune cells such as macrophages and natural killer cells, which are vital in fighting off infections. 

Echinacea is believed to increase the body’s production of interferon, a key component in the immune response against viral infections. However, its effectiveness can vary based on the species of echinacea, part of the plant used, and the extraction method. It’s widely available in various forms, including capsules, tinctures, and teas, making it a versatile option for immune support.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are found in high concentrations in fish oil, as well as in flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts. These fatty acids are integral to reducing inflammation, a critical factor in the immune response. 

Chronic inflammation can suppress the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and diseases. Omega-3s help resolve inflammation by producing substances called resolvins and protectins, which have anti-inflammatory and immune-regulating effects. Regular intake of omega-3s is associated with reduced risk of autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis, where the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues.

Probiotics

Probiotics, often referred to as “good” bacteria, are live microorganisms that confer health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. These beneficial bacteria, predominantly lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, reside in the gut and play a crucial role in maintaining gut health, which is intrinsically linked to the immune system. The gut microbiome helps in the development and function of the mucosal immune system, which protects the body from pathogens. 

Probiotics can enhance barrier function, modulate the immune response, and inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria. By maintaining a healthy balance of gut flora, probiotics can prevent gastrointestinal infections and have been shown to influence systemic immune responses, potentially reducing the incidence of respiratory infections and allergic conditions.

Zinc

Zinc is a trace mineral essential for the proper function of immune cells, including neutrophils, lymphocytes, and macrophages. It plays a critical role in the development and function of these cells, and even a mild deficiency can impair immune responses. Zinc affects multiple aspects of the immune system, from the barrier of the skin to gene regulation within lymphocytes. It is also a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Zinc supplementation has been shown to reduce the duration and severity of colds when taken at the onset of symptoms. Foods rich in zinc include meat, shellfish, legumes, nuts, and seeds, making it accessible through a balanced diet.

Selenium

Selenium is an essential micronutrient and antioxidant that plays a key role in maintaining immune health. It is crucial for the regulation of redox signaling and the production of selenoproteins, which are vital for antioxidant defense and the modulation of immune responses. Selenium deficiency has been linked to increased susceptibility to viral infections and the progression of viral diseases into more severe forms. 

This mineral supports the immune system by enhancing the proliferation of T cells and the activity of natural killer cells, both of which are essential for the body’s defense against pathogens. Selenium can be found in foods such as Brazil nuts, seafood, and meats, and it contributes to protecting against cell damage and infections.

The quest for immune optimization continues with an array of natural substances, each with unique properties that contribute to enhancing immune function and overall well-being. Here, we explore seven additional immunomodulators that are gaining attention for their health-promoting benefits.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C, an essential nutrient well-known for its antioxidant properties, plays a significant role in immune health. It supports the function of various immune cells and enhances their ability to protect against infection. Vitamin C is crucial for cellular death, which helps keep the immune system healthy by clearing out old cells and replacing them with new ones. It also acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting against damage induced by oxidative stress, which occurs with the accumulation of reactive molecules during infections. 

Additionally, vitamin C can enhance the production of white blood cells known as lymphocytes and phagocytes, which help protect the body against infections. Citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, spinach, and kale are excellent sources of vitamin C, making it easy to incorporate into the diet.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that plays a critical role in regulating immune function. It helps maintain the integrity of cell membranes, protecting them from oxidative damage. Vitamin E influences the immune response by enhancing T-cell mediated function, which is crucial for a robust immune response, especially in the elderly. 

Its antioxidative properties also contribute to the prevention of infections caused by viruses and bacteria. Foods rich in vitamin E include nuts, seeds, spinach, and broccoli, providing a tasty way to boost immune health.

Garlic

Garlic has been used for centuries in various cultures for its medicinal properties, including its ability to fight infections. It contains compounds that can help the immune system fight germs. Allicin, a compound found in garlic, is known for its antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Garlic enhances the functionality of immune cells, like macrophages, lymphocytes, and natural killer cells, enabling them to combat pathogens more effectively. Regular consumption of garlic can also lower the risk of catching colds and reduce the severity of symptoms in those who do get sick.

Ginger

Ginger is another natural ingredient with significant immunomodulatory effects. It has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties, which can help reduce inflammation and enhance immune responses. 

Gingerol, the main bioactive compound in ginger, can help lower the risk of infections by inhibiting the growth of various types of bacteria. It’s particularly effective against oral bacteria linked to inflammatory diseases in the gums, such as gingivitis and periodontitis. Ginger also has antiviral properties, making it beneficial in fighting respiratory infections.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a bright yellow spice that has been praised for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, primarily due to curcumin, its active component. Curcumin has been shown to modulate the activation of T cells, B cells, macrophages, neutrophils, natural killer cells, and dendritic cells, which are all vital components of the immune system. 

By modulating these cells, turmeric can help reduce the body’s inflammatory response to pathogens and damaged cells, potentially leading to improved immune health. Its ability to enhance antibody responses also suggests a role in improving immunity.

Green Tea

Green tea contains potent antioxidant compounds known as catechins, with epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) being the most prominent. EGCG has been found to enhance immune function by improving the health of the T cells, which play a critical role in immune responses. Green tea also has antimicrobial properties, which can protect against microbial pathogens and enhance the overall immune system’s effectiveness. Its antioxidants can help reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative stress, further supporting immune health.

Quercetin

Quercetin is a flavonoid found in many fruits, vegetables, leaves, and grains. It is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help boost the immune system. 

Quercetin can modulate the immune system by reducing inflammation and acting on cells involved in the immune response, such as mast cells and basophils. It also has antiviral properties, with studies suggesting it can help fight against common viruses, including those that cause the common cold and influenza. By stabilizing mast cells, which release histamine, quercetin can also help reduce allergies and asthma symptoms, further demonstrating its immune-modulating effects.

Incorporating these immunomodulators into one’s diet or supplementation regimen can offer a multifaceted approach to enhancing immune function and overall health. However, it’s important to consult healthcare professionals before starting any new supplement, especially for individuals with existing health conditions or those taking medication, to ensure these substances are used safely and effectively.

Taking Health into Our Own Hands

Both Dr. Mercado and Dr. Eric Berg emphasize the power of individual action in health maintenance. By integrating immunomodulators into our daily lives, along with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management, we can significantly impact our health outcomes. 

Dr. Berg encourages a proactive stance: “Empower yourself with knowledge and take actionable steps towards your health. It’s not just about living longer; it’s about living better.”

Conclusion

The exploration of immunomodulators like astragalus, Reishi mushrooms, and vitamin D opens up a fascinating realm of possibilities for health and wellness. 

With insights from Dr. Mercado and Dr. Eric Berg, it’s clear that embracing these natural allies can be a game-changer in our health journey. By taking an informed and proactive approach, we can harness the power of immunomodulators to enhance our immune system, combat diseases, and ultimately take control of our health destiny.

A Psychedelic Odyssey: A Journey Below The Mind With A Trendy Fungus

We’ve all been there. 

In the heat of the moment, with the craving of a child, we think, “Gosh, I could really use a high. I mean I deserve to take a break from this reality so I can feel some comfort, right? I mean, dammit, I need it. Look what I’ve been through, right? I’ve been through enough! Oh wait, mushrooms are trending and when I was drunk on new-age malarky, I read that when you eat psychedelic types of mushrooms, God pulls you into heaven and you trip with Him. Yeah, that’s what I want, man, a trip with God.” 

Then we pop a stem or drink a tea or follow some hyped-up and trending hipster into a hot dome to trip into our warped egos. Soon after, we puke for 2 hours, after which, we still feel broken, fucked up, and depressed. Only now, we’re also exhausted beyond belief, dehydrated, and anxious. 

Truly, there’s a better way. 

Maybe you’ve embarked on a journey that promised profound spiritual insights but instead took you on a rollercoaster ride of mind-bending and mind-exacerbating proportions. Yeah, that sounds more like it.

If you have, you’re probably familiar with the curious world of psychedelic mushrooms. These magical fungi have a reputation for providing unique and, well, “interesting” spiritual and psychological experiences.

Picture this: You take a handful of psychedelic mushrooms, eagerly awaiting the profound revelations that lie ahead. The excitement builds, and you start to feel like a wizard about to unlock the secrets of the universe. You’re convinced that you are on the cusp of enlightenment, ready to take your place among the gods. And so, the adventure begins.

As the mushrooms kick in, reality takes a backseat, and you’re transported to a realm where the laws of physics no longer apply. Colors dance, shapes morph, and your senses tango with the infinite. You feel like Alice tumbling down the rabbit hole, only to find that Wonderland is a lot weirder than you imagined.

In this altered state of consciousness, you begin to believe that you are God – or perhaps something even grander. You’re conducting symphonies of thought, orchestrating cosmic events with the flick of your mental finger. Your ego inflates like a helium balloon, and you soar through the astral planes with boundless confidence.

But here’s the twist: Just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, reality smacks you in the face like a wet noodle. You realize that your profound insights were nothing more than the ramblings of a cunning ego and mind under the influence of nothing sacred. The grand cosmic secrets you thought you were privy to were just illusions, like a mirage in the desert. They’re really nothing more than the dirty jokes you told at the bar last week. They’re just garbage.

I tripped one time, long long ago, and sang love songs to an open fridge – namely, to each of the condiments. In my mind, I was swooning over divine Beings. I fell out of the trip because I was so excited to sing these songs, I wet myself. 

There are better ways to sing to The Divine.

“While substances like mushrooms may provide temporary glimpses into altered states of consciousness, they do not lead to lasting spiritual awakening. True awakening is the recognition that you are not your thoughts, and it can only be achieved through presence and awareness, not through external stimulants.” — Eckhart Tolle

Yay! Coming Down! Oh, Wait, This Sucks.

As you come down from your psychedelic high, the emotional sparks that once lit up your mind fizzle out. You’re left with a sense of bewilderment, nausea, anger, insane tears, brokenness, wondering what on earth just happened. Wait, where did my personality go? I can’t feel my toes. Oh wait, that’s because my shoes are filled with vomit. 

The convoluted conversations you had with your inner Self just a few hours prior, which felt like profound revelations at the time, now seem like the ramblings of a madman who wanted to feel Self-important as he skirted traditional society and tripped on fungus. 

And then there’s the aftermath – the moment when your inner child, who was initially thrilled by the prospect of this magical adventure, comes crashing down from the rotten sugar rush. It’s as if that inner child ate all the candy in the store, only to regret it later. Nausea sets in, and you find yourSelf hugging the porcelain throne, desperately hoping for some relief.

In the end, the journey with psychedelic mushrooms often turns out to be a whimsical trip to nowhere particularly useful. It’s like taking a detour through the wildest corners of your mind, only to realize that you’re back where you started, perhaps a little wiser but mostly just dazed and confused.

So, the next time you’re tempted to venture into the world of psychedelics in search of profound spiritual or psychological experiences, remember this: Sometimes, the most valuable insights come from the sober moments of introspection, when you can truly understand the mysteries of your mind without the need for magical fungi. 

But hey, if you’re up for a wild ride filled with cosmic delusions and inner child shenanigans, psychedelic mushrooms are always there to provide a memorable, albeit bewildering, experience. Just don’t forget the anti-nausea medication! 

And keep your shoes on your feet the whole trip.

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In the realm of spirituality, the allure of psychedelic substances like mushrooms often lies in the belief that they can take us beyond the boundaries of our ordinary consciousness. Many seekers are drawn to these experiences in the hopes of transcending the limitations of the mind and connecting with higher realms of existence. 

However, as numerous enlightened masters have pointed out, these substances may, in fact, take us beneath the mind’s surface, rather than beyond it. Ram Das found this out after years of freaking himself out. Leaving mushrooms, he found nirvana.

“The mind is a powerful instrument, capable of profound depths and soaring heights. However, it is not by altering its chemistry with external substances that we truly transcend its limitations. Rather, it is through Self-inquiry and the direct realization of our true nature that we go beyond the mind’s confines.” — Ramana Maharshi

In essence, what these enlightened masters are conveying is that the mind, in its ordinary state, is clouded by the ceaseless chatter of thoughts, desires, and egoic identifications. Psychedelic experiences can indeed plunge us into a realm where the boundaries of the ego seem to dissolve, offering a glimpse of something greater. 

However, this often involves navigating through a maze of subconscious material, vivid hallucinations, and the ego’s attempts to reassert itSelf in new and perplexing ways. Yeah, the ego does that – ALL THE TIME – because that’s its job – to have a word with you – and often the last say.

Rather than leading us beyond the mind, these substances often take us on a journey deep within ourselves. They reveal the hidden recesses of our psyche, but not the psyche connected to The Divine, rather, the warped sense of Self and reality connected to a temporary Self-identity and what it imagines to be its most expanded Self. 

This might provide an interesting pathway around Self-exploration, but it cannot open the door to profound spiritual enlightenment and liberation that many seek.

Liberate YourSelf From Mushrooms & The Like

Certainly, it’s important to be aware of the types of mushrooms that can induce psychedelic experiences if you are on a spiritual path focused on moksha (liberation) and Self-realization.

While some individuals may explore these substances for various reasons, it’s essential to understand why avoiding them can align better with certain spiritual goals.

Here’s a list of some psychedelic mushrooms and reasons to consider avoiding them if you’re dedicated to a path of spiritual awakening:

Psilocybe cubensis: Commonly known as “magic mushrooms,” Psilocybe cubensis contains the psychoactive compound psilocybin. While these mushrooms can lead to profound altered states of consciousness, they may also distract you from deep introspection and Self-realization by generating intense and sometimes chaotic experiences.

Amanita muscaria: Also known as the fly agaric, Amanita muscaria contains muscimol, a psychoactive compound. These mushrooms are associated with vivid and often unpredictable hallucinations. Engaging with Amanita muscaria can hinder your ability to focus on meditation and Self-discovery due to their potentially disorienting effects.

Psilocybe semilanceata: Also called “liberty caps,” these mushrooms contain psilocybin and psilocin. While some users report spiritual insights during their trips, the unpredictable nature of psychedelic experiences may make it challenging to maintain a consistent and focused spiritual practice.

Psilocybe azurescens: Known for their high psilocybin content, these mushrooms can induce intense and overwhelming trips. Pursuing Self-realization may require a clear and focused mind, which can be disrupted by the emotional and sensory fluctuations caused by these mushrooms.

Psilocybe cyanescens: Similar to Psilocybe azurescens, Psilocybe cyanescens mushrooms are potent in psilocybin. They can lead to intense and unpredictable experiences that may not align with the goals of moksha and liberation.

Gymnopilus species: Some Gymnopilus mushrooms contain psilocybin and can induce psychedelic experiences. However, their effects can vary widely, making it challenging to predict how they will impact your mental state during meditation and spiritual practices.

Why Avoid Psychedelic Mushrooms? 

1. Distraction from True Self-Realization: Psychedelic experiences can be captivating and intense, potentially diverting your focus from the inward journey towards Self-realization. 
2. Unpredictable Outcomes: Psychedelic trips are highly variable, and their outcomes may not always align with your spiritual intentions. The unpredictability can disrupt your progress on the path to moksha.
3. Dependency Risk: Regular use of psychedelic mushrooms can lead to a dependency on external substances for spiritual experiences, rather than relying on inner practices like meditation and Self-inquiry.
4. Potential Mental Health Risks: For individuals with certain mental health conditions or vulnerabilities, psychedelic experiences can be destabilizing and may have lasting negative effects.
5. Dependency On The New-Age Circus: Round and round she goes, never-ending – and that’s because there’s always one more trendy influencer trying to hook us into doing something to make us foolish or dependent. Just get off the ride – and never come back.
6. You Identity Can Change: Your personality can change and your self-identity can fracture, leaving you completely clueless about who you are and what to do next. This state of the broken Self can last for hours, days, weeks, or longer.
7. You Forget Your Purpose: You can break your connection to what thrills and motivates you. You can forget your work ethic and you can be persuaded by the drugs to venture down creative paths that have nothing to do with your value and pure Self.
8. You Bounce To More Worthless Trends: Being fascinated by your trip, you might spend the next 20 years wasting your money and time tripping and being fractured. This is a wasted life.

Microdosing

There is a trend called microdosing, which is different than taking a higher dosage of mushrooms for the specific purpose of having psychedelic experiences. Micro-dosing is when you are guided by a professional to take very microscopic doses of psychedelic mushrooms to help you stimulate your brain synapses to break a horrible mental or emotional pattern. 

Upon the tiniest shift, you stop taking the microdoses, and you move on with your life. Check out my article on the subject HERE.

Truth Be Told – Shrooms Are Not For Spiritual Seekers

We are each seeking to find that one thing that will give us joy, comfort, or safety, depending on what we are each desperately seeking at a given time. That’s why the enlightened masters teach us to go within and to give up looking for ourselves externally or within our egoic minds.

Psychedelic experiences is the epitome of chasing the external or fantastical to help us feel better. The doors you imagine you’re opening are not doors – they’re delusions. 

It might seem like a higher level experience, might have the right lingo around it, and even spiritual retreats built around it – but it remains, in the end, a mental experience – not a spiritual one.

For as long as we are chasing the mind or the external, we are not meeting or knowing ourselves.

If you are truly seeking liberation, your ultimate goal is to meet yourself fully and deeply where you are – and to end the chase. Here’s the thing: the world is filled with these things, so your sojourn will NEVER END. There will always be another experience to buy that pretends to be your ticket for liberation. If you are focused on these experiences, you will certainly go in circles.

The idea is to get off the spiritual tourist train and get on the solo train that takes you to Divine Consciousness so you can become It. Mushrooms will take you anywhere BUT the pure Self.

In pursuing moksha, liberation, and Self-realization, many spiritual traditions emphasize the importance of inner practices such as meditation, Self-inquiry, and mindfulness. While some individuals may find value in occasional psychedelic experiences, it’s crucial to approach them with caution, respect, and a deep understanding of their potential impact on your spiritual journey. 

Ultimately, the path to Self-realization is a deeply personal one, and the choice of whether or not to engage with psychedelics should be made with careful consideration of your unique spiritual goals and intentions.

Consciousness is accessible because we are pure consciousness. But our sense of consciousness and our pure Selves is only warped when we consume intoxicating substances. These substances cannot take us beyond the mind to immerse in divine bliss. All they can do is open a wacky, trendy door to give us a warped sense of who we truly are, but only if we decide to do the work required to get there. 

Why take candy when the path of Sadhana can guide you to experience the real thing?

In the end, the wisdom of the enlightened masters reminds us that the true path to spiritual realization lies not in the external consumption of substances but in the inner journey of Self-discovery, Self-inquiry, and the realization of our essential nature beyond the mind’s fluctuations. 

While mushrooms may offer a curious and occasionally amusing detour, the timeless wisdom of these spiritual sages points us toward a more enduring and transformative path to Self-realization.

If it’s trending, it’s probably not true. Dig deeper. You can do it!

Exploring the World of Psilocybin Microdosing: Benefits, Risks, and Spiritual Considerations

In recent years, psilocybin microdosing has gained popularity as a means to unlock the potential benefits of psychedelic compounds without the intense trips associated with higher doses. This practice involves taking sub-perceptual amounts of psilocybin-containing mushrooms regularly. 

Let’s delve into what psilocybin microdosing is, recommended doses, the process, potential benefits and risks, and explore a spiritual perspective on its usage.

What is Psilocybin Microdosing? Psilocybin microdosing involves ingesting very small, sub-perceptual doses of psilocybin, typically derived from magic mushrooms. The aim is not to induce a full-blown psychedelic experience but to experience subtle cognitive and emotional effects.

Recommended Dose and Process: The recommended psilocybin microdosing dose is usually between 0.1 to 0.3 grams of dried mushrooms, taken every few days. The process involves grinding the dried mushrooms into a fine powder and then carefully measuring and encapsulating the desired dose. A typical microdosing regimen might involve taking one capsule every three days for several weeks.

Benefits of Psilocybin Microdosing:

• Enhanced Creativity (Temporarily): Some individuals report increased creativity and problem-solving abilities for short periods of time.
• Improved Mood: Microdosers often describe improved mood, reduced anxiety, and enhanced emotional well-being for short periods of time.
• Enhanced Focus: Microdosing may lead to heightened concentration and focus.

Prof. David Nutt, a neuropsychopharmacologist, states, “Microdosing offers a promising avenue for understanding how psychedelics can positively impact mental health without the intensity of full doses.”

Risks of Psilocybin Microdosing:

• Unregulated Sources: Obtaining reliable and uncontaminated psilocybin can be challenging, as the substance is often unregulated and sourced from the illicit market.
• Potential for Tolerance: Long-term microdosing will eventually lead to tolerance, requiring increased doses to maintain effects. This puts your brain on a train to a warped sense of reality and a numbing of how your soul experiences your feelings, thoughts, and life.
• Temporary Insights: Psilocybin and other psychedelics can provide profound insights, but these experiences are often temporary and may not lead to lasting transformation without ongoing integration practices.
• Risk of Dependence: Regular use of psychedelics, including psilocybin, can lead to dependency, potentially distracting individuals from the inner work required for spiritual growth.
• Unpredictable Outcomes: Psychedelic experiences are highly unpredictable and can vary widely from one session to another. This unpredictability can make it challenging to maintain a consistent spiritual practice.
• External Dependency: Relying on external substances for spiritual experiences may hinder individuals from realizing that the true source of wisdom and enlightenment lies within themselves.
• Individual Variability: Responses to microdosing vary widely among individuals, and some may experience adverse effects. There are plenty of cases where even the small amounts required in microdosing result in a difficult path back to clarity and consciousness.

Dr. Julie Holland, a psychiatrist, cautions, “Psilocybin microdosing should be approached with caution, as more research is needed to fully understand its long-term effects.”

Spiritual Consideration – Opening Too Many Doors

From a spiritual perspective, it’s important to remember the ancient teaching that opening too many doors can be a problem. Tripping to expand your consciousness is like driving your car off a cliff to get the feeling of flying. It’s a dead end. 

While psilocybin microdosing may offer subtle benefits, excessive experimentation with psychedelics can lead to a scattered focus and a disconnect from the deeper, inner aspects of spiritual growth. It can also lead to your separation from your healthy personality and reality itself.

The decision to microdose should be made with the intention of enhancing one’s mental and emotional health, not as a shortcut or escape. Ultimately, the most profound spiritual insights often come from within, through practices like meditation, prayer, chanting in Sanskrit, yoga, forgiveness, crying, and Self-inquiry.

Is Microdosing Beneficial to Your Soul?

Probably not. If you’re interested in liberation and real transcendence, it’s important to grow the right muscles. Tripping your brain out to induce a sense of freedom is not only dangerous and incorrect, it’s a temporary experience that has nothing to do with the goal of Self-realization. It’s candy for people who love to grow their spiritual egos rather than Consciousness.

Some individuals may find that microdosing helps them on their spiritual journey by providing new perspectives and insights. This is true, but then what? You have an insight, but where do you go from there? You go back for more insights and trips and adventures that take you below the mind and beneath your Self, rather than transcending it all. At some point, you have to stop looking for candy and shortcuts to take you to the next level.

While microdosing may provide some psychological and emotional benefits for a small portion of the population, and for a short period of time, it should not replace traditional spiritual practices (Sadhana) that have stood the test of time in guiding individuals towards moksha, liberation, and Self-realization.

“Sadhana” is a Sanskrit term that refers to spiritual practices and disciplines undertaken with dedication and devotion. These practices are integral to various spiritual traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Yoga, and more. 

While both Sadhana and psilocybin usage can offer unique experiences and insights, Sadhana is a proven technology for your deepest healing and transformation, and the most profound and stable transcendence

Benefits of Sadhana

Sustained Spiritual Growth: Sadhana is a gradual and continuous process that allows individuals to cultivate spiritual growth over time. It provides a structured framework for inner development, helping one progress steadily on their spiritual path.

Inner Transformation: Through sadhana, individuals can achieve profound inner transformation, increasing self-awareness, emotional balance, and personal growth. It fosters qualities like compassion, patience, and self-discipline.

Stability and Consistency: Sadhana encourages consistency in daily practice, which helps individuals maintain a stable and focused spiritual journey. Regular meditation, prayer, and self-reflection become integral parts of one’s life.

Integration with Daily Life: Sadhana is designed to integrate into daily life seamlessly. It doesn’t require altered states of consciousness or external substances, making it accessible and practical for long-term spiritual development.

Connection with Higher Self: Sadhana practices often lead to a deeper connection with one’s higher self or divine consciousness. This connection is cultivated through devotion, meditation, and self-inquiry.

Keep It Simple

Pray, meditate, chant in Sanskrit, do yoga, journal and perform Self-inquiry, seek to forgive everything often, and find ways to serve others. This path leads to liberation. Everything else is a circus. Oh and you’ll love The Shankara Oracle to help you unwind all that is illusion within you and around you.

The Sweet Poetry of Dark Chocolate and Pure Cacao: A Divine Indulgence

Oh my, a little dark chocolate can go a long way – especially when we are healing, performing spiritual rituals, or seeking a little lift in consciousness and connection to our bodies. 

In the world of culinary delights, few things captivate the senses and warm the heart quite like dark chocolate and pure cacao. These exquisite treasures from the cacao bean, with their rich flavors and enchanting aromas, have been cherished for centuries. 

In this article, we embark on a journey through the types, benefits, and joys of dark chocolate and pure cacao, guided by the sweet and slightly poetic embrace of their essence.

In many cultures, chocolate is a divine treat or profound offering in a ritual or ceremony. Truly, it has a sacred place in our lives. And spiritual masters will agree.

Amma (Amma.org), in all of her 40 million hugs for humanity, has given out Hershey’s kisses to each person, no matter how many times they receive her darshan (blessing/embrace). She also adds rose petals, placing both in the palm of your hand. 

“Like the cocoa bean’s transformation into chocolate, our own journey is a process of turning darkness into light.” – Guru Ananda

The Difference Between Dark Chocolate and Cacao

Dark chocolate and cacao are both derived from the cacao bean, but they differ in their processing and ingredients. Dark chocolate is made by mixing cacao solids, cacao butter, and sweeteners, often including sugar, in varying proportions. It typically has a smooth texture and a rich, slightly sweet flavor. 

On the other hand, cacao refers to the raw, minimally processed cacao bean itself, or its products like cacao nibs or cacao powder. Cacao is known for its intense and pure chocolate flavor, devoid of added sugars or fats, making it more bitter in taste. 

While dark chocolate is a finished product, cacao is a more raw and unadulterated form of chocolate, cherished for its potential health benefits and versatility in culinary applications.

Types of Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate comes in a myriad of forms, each with its unique character and allure. From velvety bars to decadent truffles, it beckons with promises of sweet indulgence. Some of the most renowned types of dark chocolate include:

Dark Chocolate Bars: These elegant bars are the epitome of dark chocolate purity. With cocoa content ranging from 70% to 90% or more, they offer a bittersweet symphony of flavors that dance on the palate.

Dark Chocolate Truffles: Gently rolled in cocoa powder or adorned with a dusting of gold, dark chocolate truffles are like jewels of the confectionery world. Their silky ganache centers melt in the mouth, revealing a luscious cocoa embrace.

Dark Chocolate Couverture: The secret behind exquisite desserts, couverture chocolate boasts a high cocoa butter content. It melts smoothly, enrobing fruits, nuts, and pastries in a glossy sheen of dark chocolate goodness.

“Chocolate, like enlightenment, melts away the illusions, leaving only the pure essence of joy.” – Swami Deva Rasa

Benefits of Dark Chocolate and Pure Cacao

Beyond their enchanting taste, dark chocolate and pure cacao offer a treasure trove of health benefits. Herbalists and experts have extolled the virtues of these magical beans for centuries:

“Cacao is nature’s gift to our heart and soul. It is a source of joy, love, and vitality.” – Herbalist Elena Martinez

Heart Health: Dark chocolate, with its high cocoa content, is a heart-healthy indulgence. It helps lower blood pressure, improve blood flow, and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Mood Elevation: The consumption of dark chocolate has been associated with a release of endorphins, often referred to as “feel-good” hormones. It can lift your spirits and provide a sense of well-being.

Antioxidant Powerhouse: Cacao is rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, which combat free radicals and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Cognitive Enhancement: Some studies suggest that dark chocolate and cacao can improve cognitive function and boost memory.

“Savor the present moment as you would savor the finest chocolate, for it is in this moment that you find true richness.” – Master Lila

The Joys of Dark Chocolate and Pure Cacao

There’s an undeniable magic in the act of savoring dark chocolate or pure cacao. It’s a moment of bliss, a pause in time, when the world fades away, and all that remains is the enchanting taste on your tongue. The joys are many:

Sensory Symphony: The velvety texture, the deep aroma, the complex flavors – every bite of dark chocolate is a symphony of the senses.

Culinary Creativity: Dark chocolate is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a myriad of recipes, from decadent desserts to savory dishes. It’s a canvas for culinary creativity.

Sharing the Love: Dark chocolate is not merely a solitary pleasure. It’s meant to be shared, a gesture of love and appreciation for those dear to us.

Chocolate: A Gift from the Divine

Shamans and healers across various traditions have long regarded chocolate as a sacred gift from the Earth. They believe that chocolate holds the power to awaken and balance the chakras, the energy centers within the body, and to unlock the gateway to deep healing. 

Among these chakras, the heart chakra, located at the center of the chest, plays a pivotal role in connecting with one’s emotions, compassion, and love.

“Just as every piece of chocolate is unique, so too is every soul on its path to awakening.” – Yogi Prem

Opening the Heart Chakra

Chocolate, particularly dark chocolate and pure cacao, is associated with heart-centered healing. Shamans and healers suggest that when consumed mindfully, chocolate can stimulate and open the heart chakra, allowing individuals to experience profound emotional release and connection. 

It is believed that the rich, indulgent flavors of chocolate mirror the sweetness of love and the bitterness of past wounds, helping one confront and heal emotional scars.

Facilitating Self-Healing

In solitary moments, individuals often turn to chocolate as a form of self-care and introspection. In such instances, chocolate is seen as a tool that can assist in deep self-healing. By indulging in chocolate with intention, one can create a sacred space for self-reflection and exploration of inner emotions. 

As the heart chakra opens, individuals may find themselves more receptive to self-compassion and forgiveness, fostering a sense of inner peace.

Chocolate in Healing Sessions & Rituals

When individuals seek the guidance of healers, shamans, or therapists in a healing or therapeutic session, chocolate can be incorporated as a ceremonial or medicinal tool. Some practitioners use cacao ceremonies to create a safe and sacred environment for their clients. 

In these ceremonies, participants consume cacao or chocolate mindfully, setting intentions for their healing journey. The presence of a healer amplifies the effects of chocolate, guiding individuals toward profound emotional and spiritual healing.

“In the sweetness of chocolate, there is a glimpse of the divine sweetness within us all.” – Master Zenara

Balancing Other Chakras

Beyond the heart chakra, chocolate is also believed to have the potential to influence other chakras within the body. Some healers suggest that it can activate the sacral chakra, associated with creativity and sensuality, or the third eye chakra, linked to intuition and insight. 

The combination of chocolate’s sensory pleasure and its ability to open these energy centers can lead to a holistic healing experience.

For shamans, healers, and therapists, chocolate is not just a sweet treat; it is a sacred tool that can unlock the potential for deep healing. Whether consumed alone in moments of self-reflection or as part of a healing ceremony guided by a practitioner, chocolate is seen as a conduit to open the heart chakra and other chakras, fostering emotional release, self-compassion, and spiritual growth. 

It is a reminder of the profound connection between the earthly and the divine, and the capacity of simple pleasures to facilitate profound healing journeys.

Finally

Truly, dark chocolate and pure cacao are not just indulgences; they are invitations to experience the poetry of life’s simple pleasures. As we savor these divine gifts, we are reminded of the wisdom passed down through generations by herbalists and experts:

“In the heart of the cacao bean lies a healing elixir, a balm for the soul. Let it be your sweet companion on the journey of life.” – Chocolate Alchemist Ava Green

For those who might need to be careful for health reasons: Excessive consumption of chocolate can contribute to weight gain and feelings of unhappiness or depression. Also, the sugar and caffeine content in some chocolates can cause energy spikes followed by crashes, leaving you feeling tired, sad, or irritable. If you’re concerned about these aspects, please consume chocolate in moderation to preserve your physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.

Alas, embrace dark chocolate and pure cacao with an open heart and grateful taste buds, for they are truly divine treasures worth celebrating.

You will love The Shankara Oracle as it will take you deeply within and connect you with your pure, divine Self.