TEDxMarin: Psychedelic Science and Medicine - Engaging Thoughts that Stimulated Our Minds
Last weekend, on June 10th, we attended TEDxMarin. It was a TEDxSalon event that focused on an in-depth exploration of Psychedelic Science and Medicine. The lineup was thought-provoking and informative, guiding us through the cutting-edge world of psychedelic science and medicine.
The distinguished speakers explored a wide range of topics, from the various types of psychedelic therapies to the ethical considerations surrounding these substances, their legal status, and the profound cultural implications they carry. The event also ventured into the intriguing realm of the complexities of the human mind and consciousness.
Congratulations to Bob Ayres , the License Holder of the event, and everyone else who participated in the organization; the event exceeded our expectations. That is why we decided to share a few thoughts from the event that sparked and engaged our minds.
By Milica Radovic Mandic
THE JUICES OF LIFE ARE AUTHENTICITY AND PASSION
The event started with a short film created by an award-winning documentary filmmaker Josh Izenberg - “Slomo: The Man Who Skated Right Off the Grid”. Watch 15 minute documentary by clicking on the LINK.
In this short documentary, Slomo showed us the transformative power of following one's passion and embracing an unconventional path. Slomo's decision to leave behind a successful career as a doctor and dedicate his life to rollerblading along the beachfront exemplifies the importance of finding joy in the present moment, embracing simplicity, and prioritizing personal fulfilment over societal expectations. Slomo’s living in “the zone” inspires us to reflect on our own lives, urging us to question the conventional notions of success and happiness and to live authentically by rediscovering childlike joy and being true to our passions and desires.
EMBRACING DISCOMFORT LEADS TO PERSONAL GROWTH
The first speaker of the day was ANDREW PENN RN, MS, NP, a Clinical Professor at the University of California, San Francisco. He talked about The State of Research in the Field of Psychedelic Science. We felt that he delivered the best speech and provided a great overview of psychedelic research. He predicted that psilocybin would be FDA-approved in the US in five years.
One thought that sparked our mind was the concept of Experiential Avoidance that Andrew mentioned. Experiential Avoidance is the act of avoiding uncomfortable thoughts and emotions. This has become a pressing problem in our fast-paced world since it is easier to numb ourselves than to feel and be overwhelmed. Experiential Avoidance is a good coping mechanism but it can stop our personal growth and worsen our emotional well-being because feelings are being suppressed rather than processed. For global society to move forward, we have this urgent need to confront Experiential Avoidance and unlock personal growth. Seeking support from mental health professionals and engaging in mindfulness practices are vital. Psychedelics can be used as a powerful tool that can offer a unique perspective and assist in overcoming Experiential Avoidance by providing a catalyst for deep introspection and confronting suppressed emotions, allowing individuals to process and integrate their experiences. Breaking free from avoidance chains can help us embrace the richness of our human experience.
PSYCHEDELICS TO THE MAINSTREAM OR MAINSTREAM MORE PSYCHEDELIC?
The second speaker of the day was NICOLE HOWELL ESQ, an Attorney and Founding Board Member of the Psychedelic Bar Association. She provided a comprehensive overview of legality in the psychedelic industry. Summary is: we don't know what we are doing, but we are trying to navigate this uncharted territory.
The question that stayed with us even after the event was: Are we trying to bring psychedelics into the mainstream or make the mainstream more psychedelic? The answer is obvious: make the mainstream more psychedelic. This is because if we manage to integrate psychedelic principles and values into institutions like healthcare and education, proponents aim to promote openness, empathy, and interconnectedness. A more psychedelic mainstream can facilitate personal and collective growth, enhance mental health, and offer alternative solutions to societal challenges. Mainstreaming psychedelic practices can also contribute to the destigmatization and responsible use of psychedelic substances while fostering a deeper connection with nature and ecological awareness.
WE ARE OUR OWN HEALER
The third speaker was DR. KWASI ADUSEI, Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner. He was talking about The Power of New Narratives during Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy.
He shared great stories, but the most important lesson that we all brought home is: We hold the power to heal ourselves, and psychedelics can serve as a valuable tool in this process. By providing unique insights and expanding our consciousness, psychedelics can assist us in uncovering and confronting underlying issues. However, it is important to recognize that they are not a standalone solution but rather a catalyst for personal growth, requiring integration and ongoing personal work for lasting transformation.
THE PSYCHE IS NOT BOUND TO OUR BODY
The last speaker of the day was DAVID E. PRESTI, a Professor of biology, psychology, and cognitive science at UC Berkeley. He talked about The Nature of Mind and Consciousness and provided us with a unique perspective on the relationship between psychedelics and our mind.
David made a statement that our psyche is not bound to our body and is a part of our larger web of consciousness. This is not a new theory but it always amazes us because of its beauty. Throughout history, numerous prominent theorists and professors have proposed that the psyche is not confined to our physical body. My favorite historical figure, Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung, known for his concept of the collective unconscious, argued that our consciousness extends beyond individual boundaries, connecting us to a broader universal psyche. Others contributed to this topic: philosopher and psychologist William James, physicist Erwin Schrödinger. Psychedelics can help us explore this idea of unified consciousness by altering our perception and facilitating experiences of expanded awareness. Exploring these altered states of consciousness can offer further data and understanding of the complex interplay between the mind, psyche, and the broader realms of existence.
PsilocybinSF is a participating organization in this local TEDx Event.
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED
Saturday Night, September 9th, 7 pm
The 14th Annual TEDxMarin live filming event + After Party @ Angelico Concert Hall in San Rafael
Reserved and General admission are on sale and moving briskly. Not many left.
This annual event always sells out in advance.
All Tickets include an off-site (nearby) after-the-show private party with fellow attendees and speakers.
This will be live and in person only.
Tickets start at $37.50
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