An Interview with Jess Morgan, The Synergistic Power of Microdosing, Cold Exposure, and Breathwork
Individuals are increasingly exploring different ways to unlock their full potential and optimize their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Three practices that have garnered significant attention in this regard are microdosing, cold exposure, and breathwork. We talked to Jess Morgan, certified Somatic Guide, about the benefits of this holistic approach and how the combination of microdosing, cold exposure, and breathwork can open new pathways to human potential.
By Milica Radovic-Mandic
Jess Morgan is a certified Somatic Guide based in Toronto, Canada. With expertise in natural healing modalities, including Deliberate Cold Exposure Therapy, Breath Work, Reiki, Psychedelics, Yoga, Cacao, and Sound Therapy, Jess empowers clients to heal, grow, awaken, and evolve. Additionally, as the Mycelium Growth Director for a microdosing start-up, Jess is dedicated to harnessing the transformative power of psychedelics for the betterment of humanity. For more information, workshops, and events, or to book a consultation, visit Jess on Instagram at @somatic.jess.
Three Practises Explained
Microdosing: Enhancing Mental Clarity and Creativity
Microdosing involves consuming sub-perceptual doses of psychedelic compounds like LSD or psilocybin mushrooms. When done appropriately, microdosing can provide various benefits, including increased focus, mental clarity, creativity, and emotional well-being. By stimulating the brain's serotonin receptors, microdosing is believed to promote neuroplasticity and enhance connectivity between different regions of the brain. This heightened connectivity may improve cognitive skills such as problem-solving, pattern identification, and creativity.
Cold Exposure: Strengthening the Mind and Body, a Resilience Practice
Cold exposure, achieved through practices like cold showers, ice baths, or cryotherapy, has gained popularity due to its numerous physiological and psychological benefits. Cold temperatures elicit various responses in the body, including enhanced metabolism, improved circulation, reduced inflammation, and strengthened immune function. Additionally, cold exposure stimulates the production of endorphins and other neurotransmitters, resulting in improved mood, mental resilience, and stress reduction. Regular exposure to cold conditions can train the mind to embrace discomfort, leading to enhanced mental fortitude and adaptability in challenging situations.
Breathwork: Harnessing the Power of Conscious Breathing
Breathwork encompasses a range of techniques that manipulate the breath for therapeutic purposes. Deep, deliberate breathing exercises have significant impacts on mental and physical health. Practices like the Wim Hof Method, Pranayama, or holotropic breathing can promote relaxation, anxiety reduction, improved focus, and increased energy levels. By intentionally altering their breath, individuals can stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting a state of calm and balance. Controlled breathing techniques also enhance oxygenation, leading to improved cognitive function, focus, and overall vitality.
The Synergistic Power of Combining These Three Practices
When microdosing, cold exposure, and breathwork are combined, they create a synergistic effect, amplifying their individual benefits and opening up new avenues for personal growth and optimization. Microdosing enhances neuroplasticity and cognitive performance, while cold exposure stimulates increased blood flow and oxygenation to the brain. When combined with breathwork, which optimizes oxygen transport, this synergistic effect has the potential to augment cognitive enhancement and improve mental clarity.
Stress Resilience and Emotional Well-Being - Microdosing, cold exposure, and breathwork all contribute to stress reduction, improved mood, and emotional well-being. Those who incorporate these practices may experience significant reductions in anxiety, enhanced emotional resilience, and increased capacity to handle stressful situations.
Improved Physical Resilience and Performance - Cold exposure stimulates the production of endorphins and other beneficial substances, which can be further amplified through microdosing. This combination can lead to increased physical resilience, faster recovery, and improved athletic performance when combined with breathwork practices.
How to Incorporate These Practices Into Your Daily Routine
Cold Exposure: According to Andrew Huberman, the suggested regimen for cold exposure is 11 minutes weekly, divided between 2-4 sessions. The water should be cold enough to be uncomfortable but not dangerous. Cold water immersion is the most effective method, but cold showers can also be beneficial. Consider making the last 30 seconds to a minute of your hot or warm shower cold to start.
Breathwork: Your breath is a powerful instrument for nervous system modulation, and it can be consciously and unconsciously controlled. There are various popular breathwork modalities available, and tapping into the rhythm of your breath lies at the heart of these techniques. The Wim Hof Method, developed by Wim Hof, widely known as "The Iceman" for his ability to endure extremely cold temperatures and achievements in endurance sports, combines specific breathing exercises, cold exposure, and meditation for numerous physical and emotional benefits.
Microdosing: Microdosing involves regularly consuming very low doses of psychedelic substances such as LSD or psilocybin mushrooms. Unlike full or recreational doses that induce intense psychedelic effects, microdoses are sub-perceptual, meaning they are not meant to cause hallucinations or significant alterations in perception.
It is important to note that while these practices have shown potential and gained popularity, they are still under investigation. Effects and experiences can vary from person to person, so caution is advised. It is best to consult healthcare professionals or therapists who are knowledgeable about these practices and can provide advice tailored to your specific needs.
When incorporating these practices into your daily routine, it is essential to begin with a clear intention and a gradual approach. Familiarize yourself with each practice individually, understanding their concepts, methodologies, and potential outcomes. As you gain more proficiency and comfort with each practice, you can start combining them into a unified practice.
Practical Tips
Here are some practical tips to help you incorporate microdosing, cold exposure, and breathwork into your daily life:
Set an Intention: Clearly state your intentions for these practices.
Start with Small Steps: Begin with manageable doses and follow established guidelines.
Consistency is Key: Incorporate these practices into your daily routine to reap long-term benefits.
Create a Sacred Space: Designate a comfortable and distraction-free area for your practice.
Seek Guidance: Consult qualified specialists for insights and personalized advice.
Reflect and Integrate: Allocate time for self-reflection and integration of your experiences.
Be Aware of Contraindications: Consult a healthcare professional for safety concerns.
Microdosing, cold exposure, and breathwork can be part of a transformative journey of self-discovery, growth, and optimization. Approach them with respect, attentiveness, and a commitment to your well-being. Listen to your body, respect your boundaries, and embrace new experiences and insights along the way. Develop a stronger mind-body connection, tapping into your inherent potential for self-awareness, growth, and overall well-being.
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