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Healing

Psychedelic Therapy, What is It?

Wellbeing 02Rebecca O'ByrneComment

Beyond micro-dosing , which has become a frontrunner in the world of healing in the last few years, for those seeking alternatives to the big-pharma led industry of often toxic + unsuccessful drugs, psychedelic treatment in a therapeutic setting is a growing field that harnesses the power of psychedelic substances, such as psilocybin (found in magic mushrooms), MDMA, ketamine + others to help treat various mental health conditions. When administered in a carefully controlled, therapeutic + professional environment, these substances are used under the guidance of trained professionals to facilitate profound psychological healing + personal growth in individuals stuck in certain recurring cycles of depression, PTSD,

The use of psychedelics in a therapeutic context is not new. Indigenous cultures have long utilized plant medicines in ritualistic + healing practices. However, the modern resurgence of psychedelic therapy began in the mid-20th century + is now experiencing a significant revival as research into their potential therapeutic benefits accelerates. With studies being conducted by institutions all over the world from Johns Hopkins University + MAPS (Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies) to Kings College + Imperial College, both in London, psychedelic therapy is gaining rightful recognition as a legitimate + potentially transformative treatment for conditions like PTSD, depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, OCD + more.

Among the psychedelics leading the way is ketamine, which has shown particular promise in treating treatment-resistant depression. Ketamine, originally developed as an anesthetic, has emerged as one of the most researched + widely used psychedelics in clinical settings. Unlike other psychedelics, ketamine is not classified as a classic hallucinogen; instead, it works by disrupting normal brain activity, creating a dissociative state that can help individuals break free from negative thought patterns + emotional blocks. When used therapeutically, ketamine has been shown to produce rapid antidepressant effects, often within hours of a single dose, which sets it apart from traditional antidepressants that may take weeks to show results — if at all. It has been especially effective for individuals with treatment-resistant depression, providing relief when other medications + therapies have failed.

What makes psychedelic therapy unique, particularly with substances like ketamine, is the deep, often life-changing experiences these substances can produce when used in a safe, supportive setting. Unlike traditional therapies that primarily focus on talk therapy + cognitive-behavioral techniques, psychedelic therapy creates an altered state of consciousness that can allow individuals to access parts of the mind that are difficult to reach through conventional methods which can often too take years to come even close to any form of actual healing. In this state, many experience a heightened sense of connection, intense introspection, + clarity, often leading to breakthroughs that can shift long-held emotional patterns + deep seated traumas.

The therapeutic process typically involves preparation, the guided psychedelic experience, + — most importantly, integration with a certified facilitator post the actual dose. During the preparation phase, therapists work with an individual to discuss their intentions, expectations, + potential challenges that may arise during the experience. The actual session takes place in a comfortable, safe environment where the individual consumes the psychedelic substance — be that through IM, IV or orally, depending on the prescribed method of the doctor —+ is guided through their journey by a trained therapist. This session can last several hours, + the therapist is present to provide support, reassurance, + guidance. Afterward, the integration phase is crucial for helping the individual process the experience, reflect on insights gained, + ultimately how best to incorporate these lessons into daily life so as to make long-lasting change.

One of the key benefits of psychedelic therapy — whatever the choice of journey, especially though with substances like ketamine, is its ability to help individuals confront + process deep-rooted trauma in a way that feels more accessible + transformative. For those with treatment-resistant depression or PTSD, traditional therapies may not always be effective, + psychedelic therapy offers a promising alternative. Psychedelics, including ketamine, have been shown to have neuroplastic effects, meaning they can stimulate the brain's ability to form new neural connections, potentially rewiring negative thought patterns + behaviors which can take years + so much energetic + financial investment over years + years.

Moreover, the use of psychedelics in therapy can foster a sense of interconnectedness + spiritual awakening, leading to profound shifts in perspective - something very difficult to truly grasp in conventional methods of therapy or medicine. This can be particularly helpful for individuals struggling with existential questions, grief, or a lack of meaning in life. For those who have fought for a long time to survive what haunts them, it can be not onlylfie changing but life saving. The experience often helps individuals realize that their struggles are part of a larger whole, offering a sense of healing that extends beyond the individual self or the struggles they face.

As research continues to unfold, psychedelic therapy — particularly with ketamine — is poised to become an important tool in the mental health landscape. It is definitely not a panacea, + it’s essential that it is approached with care, responsibility, + proper support in environments that are legal + professional. Yet, for those seeking deeper healing, it promise a new frontier in the treatment of mental health, providing a path toward self-discovery, emotional release, + lasting change.

For more resources + research articles, I find Dr. Michelle Weiner in the US an incredible wealth of knowledge + pioneer in the space. Other amazing resources include: Mabel Life (Micro-dosing Pioneers in Europe), Michael Pollan (his book How to Change Your Mind was one I read many year ago + is where I was first introduced to the topic), Dr. Andrew Weil (a wealth of knowledge on mushrooms for healing), The Synthesis Institute (a retreat hosting company in Amsterdam who also have great information to share).

 

Nadia Josse, The Interview

Wellbeing 02Rebecca O'ByrneComment

Think Winter 2020 - early 2021, in the midst of lockdown life, things were pretty bleak to say the least. While holding huge awareness of my immense privilege that I was safe + physically healthy, not forgetting the gratitude for the safety + wellbeing of my loved ones, I will admit that, like for millions of people the world over, it was a really moment where I needed to find new ways to stay well + on top of feeling good. Enter my introduction to Nadia Josse, cool-French-girl extraordinaire come breath-work practitioner, who upon realising I could actually attend her group classes from home here in Ireland (Nadia’s based in NYC), I booked right in + got my breath-work on. I’ve since attended, either live or on the recording sends out post the session, pretty much every group session she’s held along with some private 1:1s with Nadia who’s approach is kind + gentle with a technique that’s absolutely worth it’s weight in gold. On a personal level, it’s been a really powerful part of my collection of wellness tools over the past few years now + each time I work with Nadia, I go deeper + find that little bit more peace within. Here we speak about her journey into the space, how she sets herself up for success + what she does to get that glow.. (Nadia’s skin is the most glowing I’ve ever seen)


HSF — Nadia, what brought you to begin your journey toward the wellness space + specifically to this beautiful practice of breath-work?

NJ — Moving to NYC was a huge catalyst for me. I had to find an output and a way to ground myself. I found a yoga practice, which slowly led me into Reiki, meditation and lastly Breathwork. 

HSF — Have you always been so passionate about your health or have there been challenges that afforded you a fresh perspective on what it means to feel good?

NJ — Yes I always nerded out on health books. I feel like in my 20’s I was trying to find myself. I tried a LOT of different modalities - I was vegan for a little bit, paleo, keto haha. I think my biggest challenge which eventually led me to really lean into a Breathwork practice was fertility and conceiving. I had to manage my stress, regulate my hormones and connect with my feminine energy. 

HSF — As you know, I’m a huge believer in your breath-work, having worked with you on a 1:1 level + attending so many of your group sessions but for those new to your work, can you explain the specific modality of breath-work you use in your teachings..

NJ — I teach a method that really focuses on emotional release. David Elliot and Erin Telford were my teachers. It’s a heart opening practice. Some people call is 3 steps breathing. It’s a way to release stuck energy and trauma from the body , reconnect with your truth and strentghten your intuition.

HSF — How has breath-work impacted your life? 

NJ — It’s changed my life but more than that it gave me confidence that I had the answers and the power to heal within me. I used to seek healers and gurus. People who would tell me what to do and who I was. 

HSF — For those new to breath-work, where or how do you suggest someone to begin?

NJ — Start with one of my group classes and then if you want to go deeper you can do 1-1 sessions or even try on your own.

HSF — Your career appears quite demanding with a lot of travel + big industry events.. yet you manage to make it all look so chic + elegant. What tips can you give for a demanding schedule, especially with traveling between time zones?

NJ — I plan, I do lists. I set myself up for success. I also have non-negotiable in the morning that set up the foundations for my day. I wake up early, I journal, meditate (depending on the days I would do a combo of meditation and Breathwork or one only) and then I exercise. If I’m traveling I’ll adapt and try to do a shorter version of all this. But sometimes that doesn’t work and that’s ok. I get back on my routine and feel great. 

HSF — What does your morning +/or nighttime routine look like?


MORNING—

Wake up - make coffee 

Drink coffee / Journal

Meditation + Breathwork for 15 to 20 mins 

Tracy Anderson Class in Tribeca (my favorite workout) I sweat like crazy and I love it. 

Go home - cold shower, supplements (I take Lyma supplement, Cymbiotika Omega, B12 and D3)

Smoothie with plant protein, collagen (love Agent Nateur), Fiber (PaleoFiber), Creatine and L- Glutamine). 

And then I head to work! 

NIGHT —

I try to wind down early like 7:45. 

I do my skincare

I turn on my red light in my room with peaceful sounds (love my Lotfie alarm).

I take magnesium and gaba

I turn on my BioMat and read on it for 20/25 mins. 

I get into bed and sleep. I need the room to be VERY cold. 


HSF — Let’s talk skin for one second.. yours is always glowing. Who or what are your secrets?

NJ — RED Light! Recently got the LYMA laser which I love. My facialist Cynthia Rivas (in NYC) uses Is Clinical products which I love. She has a very simple outlook on skin - no fluff no extra steps. KEEP IT SIMPLE! I see her once a month. Obviously I use retinol and SPF 365 days a year. IPL lasers and medical peels also helped my skin a lot. 

HSF — What one product could you not live without?

NJ — Is Clinical Pro Heal serum and their face wash. It’s the best. I also love Bioderma micellar water. Oh + ELTA MD tinted SPF.

HSF — A quick (but important) note on your style - again, always so chic. What is your personal style philosophy + how do you build out / invest in your wardrobe each season?

NJ — I don’t buy any Zara, Mango or cheap clothes. I prefer to wait and invest in a VERY good piece that will last me forever. My style has evolved a lot over the years. I really want to buy pieces that are not the “trendy” thing and that will last through the years.

HSF — You’re one of the coolest people to follow on Instagram; a style connoisseur + wellness aficionado, all with a killer career + the cutest family. How do you switch off though? Do you find the pull of social media + always being turned on a challenge? Where do you find balance in doing it all?

NJ — I delete instagram from my phone from time to time and I take a break. Right now it is very difficult to be on. It’s taking a toll on my mental health so I only use it to promote my classes and try to stay away. 

HSF — On a personal level, what do you hope to impart to those you teach + who’s lives you enlighten with your breath-work?

NJ — I just want for people to realize they can change and they hold so much power within. Breathwork is the ultimate tool for self discovery and self love.

HSF — The last book/ movie/ tv show/ podcast you loved?


Podcast: I love the Armchair Expert with Dax Sheppard. Such great convos.

Book: I’m currently reading the Fourth Wing 

TV Show: Obsessed with a lot of shows - the last one I loved was Fleishman is in Trouble on Hulu

Movie: Triangle of Sadness 


HSF — Your favourite piece of advice?

It’s not about you. So don’t take this personal. 

HSF — Nadia, what has been your proudest moment to date?

NJ — The birth of my baby. Unmedicated, beautiful and chaotic. 

HSF — What are you excited about for the future?

NJ — Continuing to teach, launching more online offerings and retreats.