Madness Or Nirvana? The Psychedelics Paradox

Asangoham Books: Psychedelics can have extreme and sometimes even overwhelming effects on human consciousness. They are found in almost every society and culture. They range from natural compounds like psilocybin and ayahuasca to synthesised products like LSD. They even include practices like “smoking the toad.” “Smoking the toad,“ refers to the inhalation of vaporised venom from the Bufo alvarius toad. This toad secretes a venom rich in 5-MeO-DMT, an extremely potent psychoactive compound. When smoked, it induces an intense, short-lived psychedelic experience, often described as deeply transformative, even mystical. Mostly, however, it is best known for its reputed ability to dissolve the egoic self. Many indigenous shamanistic cultures often combine psychedelics and spiritual practices to bring about such ego-dissolution. There are also Eastern spiritual traditions known for their ego-dissolving practices, among them Buddhism and Advaita Vedanta. In Buddhism, the ego—or ’anatta’—is perceived as an illusion, and as the primary barrier to enlightenment. Similarly, in Advaita Vedanta, a branch of Hindu philosophy, the dissolution of Ahamkara (ego-sense) is essential for realising the true self, or Atman. Can a psychedelic experience bring about a permanent dissolution of the ego? Or, is a spiritual practice or insight of some kind necessary? #Psychedelics #nirvana #awakening #lsd Script: Matt Mackane Edit: Harsh Voiceover: Matt Mackane DISCLAIMER 01: All ideas expressed on this channel are for entertainment and general information purposes only. There is no advice on what an individual should or should not do. Any response made by anyone after hearing this communication is their interpretation and is their responsibility. Ideas expressed by this channel should not be treated as a substitute for medical advice or professional help. If expert assistance or counselling is needed, the services of a competent professional should be sought. DISCLAIMER 02: All materials in these videos are used for entertainment purposes and fall within the guidelines of fair use. No copyright infringement intended. If you are, or represent, the copyright owner of materials used in this video, and have an issue with the use of said material, please send an email to doseofquotes02@. Copyright © 2022 Asangoham. All rights reserved.