"The Psychedelic Society" - our name often creates a particular expectation, doesn't it? Unsurprisingly, a lot of people assume we're only talking about substances but we encompass the vast spectrum of altered states available to us as humans.
From breathwork to meditation, sensory deprivation to ecstatic dance, fasting to sound healing - these diverse gateways to non-ordinary awareness have been part of human experience across cultures and throughout history. They help us cultivate a mindset of openness, wonder, and radical interconnection. One that sees fresh possibilities where conventional thinking finds only dead ends. We believe this consciousness-expanding approach is precisely what's needed to address our world's most pressing challenges in entirely new ways.
This is why we're so passionate about bringing together the brightest minds and most compelling voices that create bridges between ancient wisdom and cutting-edge science, between personal healing and social transformation.
Next month, we're thrilled about the caliber of the thinkers joining us:
On June 10th, we have the honour of bringing together Professor David Nutt and Darren Le Baron to explore how humans have always sought altered states - from alcohol to ancient plant medicines - and what this reveals about our need for connection, transcendence, and healing.
On June 17th, we're hosting a rare London appearance with Ali Beiner and Josh Schrei of the Emerald Podcast. Josh has become one of the most thoughtful voices in reviving animism for our modern context, while Ali's work with Kainos and his book "The Bigger Picture" has made him essential reading for anyone trying to make sense of our cultural moment. Together, they'll explore how reconnecting to a living world offers new pathways through our social and spiritual upheaval.
We're also taking our conversations into festival season! Join us at Solstice Festival at Wasing, Berkshire (June 20-22) where we'll be hosting a special panel exploring how ritual and ceremony have evolved and their place in our modern culture. With a host of great panelists, we'll delve into how European pagan traditions - with their deep connection to nature, seasonal cycles, and rich symbolism - can inspire authentic ceremonial practices for today. We'll be exploring how to craft ceremony that speaks to who we are, where we come from, and the world we're trying to build together.
At the bottom of this newsletter you'll also find:
A 10% discount (code = PS10) to Solstice at Wasing - a two-day gathering to herald the sun at the incredible home of Medicine Festival
As always, you can find all our upcoming events and retreats on our events page.
ALL OUR UPCOMING EVENTS
in Intimacy & Identity
in Psychedelic Science & Integration
in Adventures in Awareness
Psychedelic Retreats
in Community, Leadership, & Social Change
in Nature Connection
in Embodiment & Creativity
in Ceremony & Ritual
FROM OUR PARTNERS
Discount to Solstice at Wasing
Our friends at Wasing, the home of Medicine Festival, are offering a 10% discount on tickets to Solstice at Wasing on 20-22 June 2025. Join us for an epic weekend in the woods to celebrate the energy of Summer, the cycle of nature & incredible music including a magical solo piano set from James Blake, the Fireside Sessions featuring sitar virtuoso Anoushka Shankar in the Sacred Glade and spellbinding sets from Salif Keita, Nubiyan Twist, K.O.G. & The Turbans and many others.
The pinnacle Solstice moment will be celebrated with a hilltop Sunrise Ceremony at dawn and there’ll be a host of talks & workshops, including the Psychedelic Society, throughout the weekend to inspire. Rejuvenate with wild swimming, a Scandinavian sauna, nature connection meditations and breathwork. Kids go free with a whole host of activities at the Kidz Zone. Camp or book a beautiful tipi tent.
We’re looking for a charismatic, organised, and creative Community & Connection Events Lead to plan, promote, and host community events in your area as part of our growing national events program.
This is a unique opportunity to build meaningful, in-person community spaces centred around psychedelic culture, altered states, nature connection, and personal growth. You will help us expand our Community Pillar, delivering events such as:
Conscious speed-dating & speed-friending
Psychedelic storytelling & sharing circles
Nature-based community walks and meetups
You’ll be promoting and delivering at least two community events per month, with plenty of structure and support. If you’re passionate about building grassroots communities and holding space for connection and transformation — this role is for you!
We fund our work in community-building and psychedelic education primarily through our membership program.
By becoming a member of The Psychedelic Society community, you get access to exclusive members-only events, a discount on events, and support the development of this alternative cultural space. Membership starts from just £5/month!
With love & appreciation, Lauren & The Psychedelic Society team
