Hi there,
A landmark study published in Science, drawing on over a century of anthropological and ethnomusicological research across 315 societies, found that song is present in every human culture examined - making it one of the most robust candidates for a true universal human behaviour. Some researchers go even further, arguing that singing is an instinct - and that we could more accurately say we have a "song instinct" than a "language instinct." We are, quite literally, a singing species.
And yet how many of us now feel we can't sing at all? For most of us the memories of singing belong to childhood. We sang in the back of cars, in school halls, in made-up games - without a second thought about whether we were "good" at it. But somewhere along the way we began to listen to ourselves critically, to compare, to shrink. We decided, quietly but firmly, that singing wasn't for us.
The science of what singing does to us is magical. It stimulates the vagus nerve and recent studies show that both group chanting and choir singing lead to significant reductions in cortisol, while vocal chanting produces the greatest drops in self-reported anxiety - partly because it redirects attention away from intrusive, habitual thought patterns. Researchers at Oxford have shown that community singing is one of the most effective ways of bonding large groups of people, making it an ideal behaviour for rebuilding social networks in an increasingly alienating world. It is a technology of connection, healing, and belonging.
Which is why we're so excited to share two upcoming opportunities to explore this. On 21st June, join us in London for Voice DNA: A Solstice Journey - a playful, held evening of vocal improvisation and sound with Uran Apak. No experience needed, no performance required. And if you're ready to go deeper, Our Living Voice Retreat takes you to the ancient woods of Wiltshire this July for four days of ceremony, breath, and song. Just bring your voice :)
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At the bottom of this email you will also find:
- 10% off the transformative Entheogenesis psilocybin retreat centre in the Netherlands
Information on one of the first university-level psychedelic education programs designed for non-clinicians at OSU (online) - Last chance for a 10% discount to Breaking Convention Summit this Saturday
- Tickets to ICPR - Europe's premier conference for psychedelic research
MORE UPCOMING EVENTS
As always, you can find all our upcoming events and retreats on our events page.
more retreats
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processing together
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psychedelic retreats
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community + connection
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hot topics in psychedelics
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containers to go deeper
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FROM OUR PARTNERS
We are delighted to be partnering with the transformative Entheogenesis retreat centre in the Netherlands to offer unique legal psilocybin ceremonies, supported by comprehensive preparation and integration guidance for a safer and deeper experience.
Their approach builds a bridge between ancient plant medicine traditions and modern science-based practices. Curated by a team of experienced trauma-informed guides.
Just leave the code "AWORLDAPPEARS" in the comment section of the application form to get 10% off
Introducing the online Certificate in Interdisciplinary Psychedelic Studies (CIPS) from Ohio State University. This is a rigorous, accessible, and holistic introduction to the field of psychedelic studies and one of the first university-level psychedelic education programs designed for non-clinicians and championed by Alan Davis who will be running a talk de-mystifying DMT with us next month.
The self-paced format of the program makes university-level psychedelic education accessible nationwide for individuals unable to commit to multiweek, in-person intensive programs. The nearly 20-hour program, which costs just $250, requires completion of all five comprehensive units from biology, to the history and ethics, to the therapeutic applications of psychedelics.
Program registration fees support the Center for Psychedelic Drug Research and Education's ongoing research and education programs.
Join us for a one day psychedelic conference in London featuring world-leading experts and speakers this Saturday 16th May 2026 in London and online. Whether you're curious about the headlines, interested in the science, or simply want to understand what all the fuss is about - this is a day designed for you. Come find us at The Psychedelic Society stand!
We have a 10% discount for our community: use code PSYCHSOC10 at checkout.
The premier psychedelic research conference in Europe
Want to get in on the hottest conversations in psychedelics? ICPR is where science, practice, and policy meet. This is where you'll find intellectual rigour, cutting-edge evidence, and meaningful discussions on the real-world applications of psychedelics. With a strong focus on quality and integrity, ICPR is not about hype; it's about knowledge, impact, and the future of the field.
Join our community of members!
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!
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