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Procedure Experiments were conducted in a relaxed, informal setting as described by Shulgin, Shulgin, and Jacobs(1). They were often conducted over a weekend. This gave the opportunity for those participating to get together the evening before, get acquainted if necessary, and learn about the substance to be tried and its characteristics. It also gave the opportunity to share concerns and aspirations, as well as determine individual dose levels from the data available. Participants chosen for research with new compounds (with the exception of MDMA) had previous experience with psychedelics, were stable personalities with whom it was easy to establish good rapport, and were unlikely to be frightened or overwhelmed by the surfacing of unconscious material. They were assessed to have a favorable "set," a requirement for a fruitful psychedelic experience. The following description of the effect of set and setting on the experience is excerpted from my paper in the journal Gnosis: Set and setting have been widely recognized as the two most important factors in undertaking a psychedelic experience. Of these set has the greatest influence. As the drug opens the door to the unconscious, huge spectrums of possibilities present themselves. Just how one steers through this vast maze depends mostly upon set. Set includes the contents of the personal unconscious, which essentially is the record of all one's life experiences. It includes the walls of conditioning which determine the freedom with which one can move through various vistas. Another important aspect of set consists of one's values, attitudes, and aspirations. These will influence the direction of attention and determine how one deals with the material encountered. In fact one can learn a great deal by accepting and reconciling oneself with uncomfortable material. Resisting this discomfort, on the other hand, can greatly intensify the level of pain, leading to disturbing, unsatisfactory experiences, or even psychotic attempts to escape. This latter dynamic is largely responsible for the medical profession's view of these materials as psychotomi metic. Surrender, acceptance, gratitude, and appreciation can result in continual opening, expansion, and fulfillment. Setting, or the environment in which the experience takes place, can also greatly influence the experience, since subjects are often very suggestible under psychedelics. Inspiring ritual, a beautiful natural setting, stimulating art work, and interesting objects to examine can focus one's attention on rewarding areas. Most important of all is an experienced, compassionate guide who is very familiar with the process. His mere presence establishes a stable energy field that helps the subject remain centered. The guide can be very helpful should the subject get stuck in uncomfortable places, and can ask intelligent questions that will help resolve difficulties, as well as suggesting fruitful directions of exploration that the subject might have otherwise overlooked. The user will also find that simply sharing what is happening with an understanding listener will produce greater clarity and comfort. Finally, a good companion knows that the best guide is one's own inner being, which should not be interfered with unless help is genuinely needed and sought. On the day of the session, the drug was taken on an empty stomach. Participants were free to follow their own inclinations. They could gather in groups and chat, or wander into private rooms or around the grounds for private exploration. The surrounding countryside provided beautiful vistas, looking over granite rock formations, a green meadow, and towering mountains. There were many interesting spots to sit and drink in nature. "The flat rock" was a favorite of mine I often referred to in reports of experiences. It was a very large, flat-surfaced rock that sat above the surrounding landscape, and was surrounded by growing bushes and shrubs. It looked over a green meadow filled with grazing cattle, and offered views of interesting granite rock piles and abruptly rising high mountains. The view was commanding and revealed much of the beauty, mystery, and wonder of the high desert. Another favorite I called my "meditation rock." It was a well-formed seat permitting reclining, atop an isolated, tall rock pile. It had the advantage of a 360 , unrestricted view of the surrounding countryside. It was an ideal spot for contemplating natural environments. Except in special cases where individuals had specifically asked for help or guidance, each person was left to explore the experience in his or her own way. Soft drinks and snacks were available. Groups usually found it worthwhile to join together for mutual discussion after they had sufficient time for private investigation. A good music system was also available, and many greatly enjoyed the increased enhancement often experienced with music. Music can be very inspiring in encouraging releasing to the experience and opening the door for new levels of exploration. The day following the experiences provided time for the participants to share and discuss their individual journeys.
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