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Excessive Awe in Ayahuasca Retreats May Harm Well-Being

6/22/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A recent study in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs uncovers a surprising twist: overwhelming awe during ayahuasca retreats might actually diminish well-being. While those feeling a moderate sense of awe reported greater happiness, those who experienced excessive vastness found the opposite. This research highlights the importance of finding the right balance of awe for a positive psychedelic journey.

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Story summary

A recent study in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs uncovers a surprising twist: overwhelming awe during ayahuasca retreats might actually diminish well-being. While those feeling a moderate sense of awe reported greater happiness, those who experienced excessive vastness found the opposite. This research highlights the importance of finding the right balance of awe for a positive psychedelic journey.