Supporting Science

Biomarkers and Neuroplasticity Measures

• Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF):
  Psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD have been shown to increase BDNF, a key protein involved in synaptic plasticity and neuron survival. Elevated BDNF levels correlate with enhanced learning, memory, and emotional flexibility during the post-acute phase. (Ly et al., 2018)

• Default Mode Network (DMN):
  Psychedelics temporarily disrupt the DMN, which governs self-referential thought, leading to decreased rigid thought patterns and increased neural flexibility. DMN activity typically normalizes during the integration phase but with lasting positive changes. (Carhart-Harris et al., 2012)

• Cortical Thickness and Synaptogenesis:
  Studies suggest enhanced synaptic growth in regions associated with emotional regulation and cognition after psychedelic experiences. These changes are thought to underpin lasting therapeutic effects. (Sampedro et al., 2017)

Dosage and Duration Implications

1. Microdosing:

• Small, sub-perceptual doses (e.g., 10-20 mcg LSD or 0.1-0.3 g psilocybin) can lead to incremental neuroplasticity over weeks or months without inducing a full psychedelic experience. Benefits include subtle mood improvement, creativity, and focus. (Polito & Stevenson, 2019)

2. Macrodosing:

• Full doses induce profound neuroplasticity by disrupting entrenched neural circuits and promoting the formation of new pathways. These effects are particularly pronounced during the acute and early post-acute phases but require careful integration to sustain. (Ly et al., 2018)

Personalized Optimization Techniques

For Neurodivergent Individuals

1. ADHD:

• Psychedelics may help regulate dopamine and norepinephrine systems, improving focus and executive function. Post-acute practices like goal setting and task prioritization enhance neuroplastic gains. (Muller et al., 2019)

2. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD):

• Psychedelics may support emotional processing and social connectedness by modulating serotonin pathways. Integration can include social skills training and guided journaling to reinforce positive changes. (Danforth et al., 2016)

Age-Specific Considerations

1. Younger Adults:

• Younger brains exhibit higher baseline neuroplasticity. Psychedelics can further enhance this, but their effects are amplified by activities like skill-building, learning new languages, or exploring creative hobbies during integration phases. (Gopnik et al., 2020)

2. Older Adults:

• Psychedelics may help counteract age-related cognitive decline by promoting neurogenesis and synaptic remodeling. Cognitive exercises (e.g., puzzles, memory games) and physical activity (e.g., yoga, walking) are highly beneficial. (Vollenweider et al., 2020)

DIY Integration Practices

Visualization Exercises

• Use guided visualization techniques to reinforce positive insights from the psychedelic experience. Example:

1. Close your eyes and recall the most impactful moment of the experience.

2. Visualize how it applies to your life goals or relationships.

3. Repeat this process daily to embed the memory into long-term neural circuits.

Gratitude Practices

• Maintain a gratitude journal to foster emotional regulation and integrate the positive shifts induced by psychedelics. Example:

1. Write down three things you’re grateful for each day.

2. Reflect on how these align with insights from the psychedelic session.

3. Use gratitude as a tool to shift focus toward positive behaviors and growth.

References

1. Ly, C., et al. (2018). Psychedelics promote structural and functional neural plasticity.

2. Carhart-Harris, R. L., et al. (2012). Neural correlates of the psychedelic state as determined by fMRI studies with psilocybin.

3. Polito, V., & Stevenson, R. J. (2019). A systematic study of microdosing psychedelics.

4. Danforth, A. L., et al. (2016). Psychedelic-assisted therapy for autism spectrum disorders: Preliminary findings.

5. Vollenweider, F. X., et al. (2020). Therapeutic and neuroplastic effects of classic psychedelics in humans.