An increasing number of athletes who have suffered life-altering injuries are investigating unconventional ways of healing and recovery.
In their search for alternative remedies, psychedelics like magic mushrooms are becoming increasingly favored by athletes seeking both relief and rehabilitation. This trend signifies a shift in how the sports community views alternative therapies, as athletes pursue innovative solutions to their physical and mental challenges.
Many athletes admit to using these mushrooms outside a clinical setting, suggesting they probably procured them from a magic mushroom dispensary. The impact of their magic mushroom consumption has significantly affected their mental health and various other challenges they face.
[toc]Key Takeaways:
- Athletes experience mental health problems at rates similar to, or even higher than, those of the general population.
- Psychedelics could potentially promote neuron growth, offering therapeutic possibilities for individuals recovering from traumatic brain injuries.
- The primary advantage of psychedelics is their potential to beneficially affect mental health, aiding athletes coping with the aftermath of injuries or high stress levels.
Athletes’ Experiences as Described in a CNN Report
An article on the CNN website, authored by Amy Woodyatt with contributions from George Ramsay, delves into how athletes are using psychedelics to cope with severe sports injuries.
A particularly compelling story was shared by Daniel Carillo, a former Canadian ice hockey player. Carillo grappled with seven diagnosed concussions that led to symptoms akin to dementia, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and persistent headaches. These problems became so severe that even simple family activities became demanding tasks.
Carillo started researching medical literature and came across a psilocybin study by the Imperial College of London. Instead of partaking in a clinical trial, Carillo decided to consume a high dose in a more relaxed setting.
During an interview with CNN, he revealed his routine of regularly microdosing psilocybin with occasional use of larger doses. He also mentioned that he
He actively manages his health by regularly undergoing brain scans and blood tests.
In addition to using psilocybin, he emphasizes the importance of consistent physical exercise, sufficient sleep, moderation in sugar and alcohol consumption, and sunlight exposure to maintain his energy levels.
Why Athletes Are Drawn to Psychedelics
Carillo isn’t the only athlete who has turned to psychedelics for help in dealing with life’s challenges. Numerous professional athletes have experimented with substances ranging from ayahuasca to LSD in an attempt to enhance their overall well-being, particularly in terms of mental health.
According to research conducted by Courtney Walton, an academic fellow in psychology at Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, elite athletes face mental health issues at rates similar to or even exceeding those of the general population. Psychedelic therapy seems to hold promise in addressing mental health issues among athletes, especially those stemming from common obstacles such as resistance to therapy, identity conflicts during career transitions and injuries, and handling interpersonal tension and conflicts.
The role of psychedelics in mental health treatment is essential, particularly for athletes. The brain controls many bodily functions including organ regulation, thought processing, emotional regulation, memory, speech, and coordination of movement. Individuals experiencing diminished mental functionality may witness a decline in their performance and focus.
Focus is crucial in sports, leading to an increased interest in the potential role psychedelics could play in improving this aspect. In a report by CNN, NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers openly discussed his personal experiences with psychedelics. He mentioned that consuming a brew containing ayahuasca, a concoction made from Amazonian plants with psychoactive properties, positively impacted his performance in football games.
Expert Opinions
Experts in the field argue that psychedelics have been effective in treating certain mental health disorders.
Robin Carhart-Harris, Professor of Neurology and Psychiatry at the University of California, told CNN Sport that the argument becomes compelling when looked at from a psychological therapy perspective, especially for treating depression, with a few significant exceptions.
In terms of treating brain injuries, Carhart-Harris emphasized the limited information available on the use of psychedelics for this purpose. However, some evidence suggests that psychedelics may help stimulate
Research has not extensively probed into the potential advantages that could be reaped in the wake of a brain injury.
The potential use of psychedelics for therapeutic purposes in the fields of mental health and brain injury requires careful evaluation, as emphasized by experts. The profound impact of psychedelics has the potential to provoke psychological disturbances, particularly in those who are psychologically fragile.
Deciphering the Interaction between Psychedelics and the Brain to Understand Their Effects
The effects of psychedelics can vary depending on the specific type consumed. Taking magic mushrooms as an instance, Health Canada claims that these mushrooms carry hallucinogenic compounds like psilocybin and psilocin, which can lead to alterations in sensory perception. These modifications could include visual or auditory hallucinations, tactile sensations, emotional shifts, or even physiological symptoms such as muscle cramps, heart rate, or blood pressure fluctuations.
Psilocybin is not the direct cause for these effects; instead, when consumed, it metabolizes into psilocin, the compound responsible for the effects. Psilocin activates serotonin 5-HT2a receptors located on cortical pyramidal cells in the brain.
David Nichols, a long-time psychedelics researcher and professor at the Purdue University School of Pharmacy, points out that these cells are the primary computational units of the brain, serving as the main hub where all processing takes place. The activation of these receptors by psilocin results in changes in brain metabolic activity and neuronal connectivity, which influences cognitive function and perception.
Regarding the treatment of brain injuries, there are several theories suggesting benefits from the use of psychedelics. Since classic psychedelics act on serotonin receptors known for regulating inflammation and inhibiting cytokine inflammatory cells, they could enhance blood flow to injured areas and aid tissue recovery post-injury. DMT, in animal studies, has shown effectiveness in reducing brain damage resulting from arterial occlusion.
Magic Mushroom Dispensaries: A Route to Healing via Shrooms
Magic mushroom dispensaries provide a secure and trustworthy avenue for those in search of genuine magic mushroom products. These dispensaries ensure protected transactions by delivering goods through reliable carriers such as Canada Post.
Through an online magic mushroom dispensary, a diverse selection of shrooms and psychedelic products are available. Each product comes with its own unique characteristics and advantages, allowing users to select an option that aligns best with their preferences and needs.
| PRODUCT | IDEAL FOR |
| Dried Shrooms | Those who relish the flavor of mushrooms and seek fast, intense experiences |
| Edibles/Drinks | Those who wish to mask unwanted tastes and prevent sickness during extended trips |
| Capsules | Those keen on integrating shrooms into their health routine via microdosing |
Final Thoughts
Psychedelics like mushrooms demonstrate their potential in supporting the mental well-being of athletes facing traumatic injuries and job-related stress. They offer a variety of symptom management techniques, especially when used in conjunction with therapy. This method yields encouraging and durable outcomes, as demonstrated by numerous studies.
Although psychedelics are yet to receive official approval as a treatment modality from the medical fraternity, experts caution that consuming magic mushrooms necessitates a comprehensive understanding for safe usage.
Commonly Asked Questions
Do athletes consume psychedelics in high or low quantities?
The consumption of psychedelics varies according to individual requirements and inclinations. CNN interview responses demonstrate diverse consumption habits: some opt for infrequent high doses, while others prefer low doses to enhance focus or promote overall health.
Carhart-Harris proposes that there is genuine potential in using minimal doses of psychedelics to augment mindfulness abilities. This can foster intense focus, facilitating the attainment of a flow state.
Can I buy magic mushrooms from a medicinal mushroom dispensary?
Medicinal mushroom outlets predominantly provide a variety of mushrooms such as Reishi, Lion’s Mane, Turkey Tail, and more. To purchase magic mushrooms, consider visiting a magic mushroom or psychedelic dispensary. Exercise caution to avoid illicit magic mushroom dispensaries or sellers falsely claiming to offer authentic psychedelics.
Should I incorporate psychotherapy when using psychedelics?
In clinical studies, researchers combine therapy sessions with the intake of psychedelics. Evidence suggests that this integrated approach can facilitate a more profound comprehension of the insights derived from high-dose mushroom experiences, thereby enriching the psychedelic journey.
Is there a role for psychedelics in managing injury-related Can psychedelics be used for pain relief?
The realm of pain management has yet to fully explore the potential of psychedelics. However, Anna Symonds, an ex-US rugby player, has suggested the possible advantages of utilizing cannabis for pain relief.
F. Z. Zia and his team at the National Institutes of Health have delved into the prospective employment of psychedelics in dealing with chronic pain. Their research hints at the possibility that psychedelics can reduce various kinds of pain, including headaches, pain linked to cancer, phantom limb pain, and neuropathic pain. They propose that psychedelics might serve as “effective supplements” in managing chronic pain and associated ailments like PTSD and major depression.
The number of studies focusing on acute pain and the role of psychedelics is relatively small.
How can athletes incorporate psychedelics into their regimen?
Microdosing, which involves consuming small doses regularly, is a distinct method of psychedelic use. This practice has become attractive to athletes due to its capacity to reduce adverse effects while preserving therapeutic advantages. Embracing this approach can lead to enduring benefits, such as enhanced cognitive flexibility, which is essential for effective decision-making, particularly in high-pressure situations.
Primary Source:
Athletes Seeking Life-Altering Solutions Through Psychedelics: A CNN Report
Contributors:
Amy Woodyatt and George Ramsay
Suggested Further Reading:
