Integration & Suggested Techniques for Grounding
The following information was originally generated by the entheogenic church, the Temple of Awakening Divinity (T.O.A.D.).
The T.O.A.D. has given direct permission and consent for its publication and use here.
The 5-MeO-DMT journey is an extraordinary and transformative experience. For many, the process of integration unfolds naturally over days, weeks, or even months. Below are recommendations to help you navigate the integration process, especially if challenges like restlessness, unusual sensations, or sleep difficulties occur.
Practical Steps for Grounding and Integration
Acupuncture
A single session with a skilled acupuncturist can work wonders for grounding and stabilizing your energy. If you’re comfortable, share your experience—mentioning a significant energetic shift might help them tailor the treatment. This is particularly useful if sleep has been challenging. Be clear about your goal of achieving restful sleep.Contrast Bathing
Alternating between hot and cold water can be highly grounding. If you have access to natural hot springs, a hot tub, or a sauna paired with a cold plunge pool, try incorporating them into your routine. At home, a hot bath followed by a cold shower can be just as effective. Add mineral-rich bath salts, like magnesium chloride, to amplify the benefits.Grounding Foods
Consuming certain foods can help anchor your energy. Root vegetables (carrots, potatoes, beets), whole grains, grass-fed meats, and aged cheese are excellent options. Even something as simple as a fresh, high-quality cheeseburger can provide the grounding you need. Focus on eating organic, natural, and fresh food wherever possible.Yoga and Conscious Breathing
Physical yoga practices, like Hatha yoga, combined with deliberate breathing exercises (Pranayama), can help regulate and channel your energy. Belly breathing is especially effective: lie on your back, place your hands on your navel, and breathe deeply into your diaphragm so your hands rise and fall. Gradually work up to inhaling for a count of 10 and exhaling for 20, adjusting as needed.Exercise and Movement
Engaging in vigorous physical activities such as running, cycling, swimming, or weightlifting can help ground heightened energy into the body. Activities like ecstatic dance (e.g., 5 Rhythms or swing dancing) are particularly effective for channeling and embodying energy. Remember to stay hydrated throughout.Physical Connection and Touch
Gentle, loving touch can be deeply soothing during this time. If you have a partner, consider asking to be held in a grounding position—like spooning with a hand placed over your heart and another on your belly. If a partner isn’t available, seeking out nurturing touch or hugs from a friend or loved one can provide the same benefits.Sharing and Space Holding
Talking to a trusted friend or loved one who can listen without judgment or offering solutions can help immensely. Sharing your feelings and experiences openly allows for emotional release and integration. Choose someone who understands or is familiar with your journey for the best support.Herbal Sleep Aids
There are several effective aids to help sleep, and calm activated energies. These include the amino acid Glycine, the Chinese herbal remedy An Shen Bu Xin Wan, also known as Spirit Calm, and the Power to Sleep PM Melatonin-Free, from Irwin naturals. Recommended doses of glycine are 3,000–4,000 mg, taken 1/2 hour before bedtime, which can safely be used for any amount of time.Time in Nature
Taking a short break from daily routines to spend time outdoors can be incredibly grounding. Whether it’s a quiet hike, a day at the beach, or simply sitting in a park, connecting with nature helps integrate and settle heightened energies.Coaching and Counseling
For those navigating complex emotions or trauma, working with an experienced coach or counselor who understands energetic integration can bring clarity and direction. This professional guidance can help you process deeper material surfaced during your experience.Psychotherapy
Sometimes profound experiences may unearth repressed trauma. If this is the case for you, you may benefit from professional therapy. A skilled psychotherapist can help you process and work through these emotions in a safe and structured environment.Medication as a Last Resort
In rare cases, sedatives or anti-anxiety medications prescribed by a healthcare professional may help stabilize overwhelming activation. However, these should only be used as a final option, as they may prolong the integration process.
Practices to Avoid
Meditation During Intense Activation
While meditation is generally beneficial, during periods of heightened energetic activation it can sometimes amplify the experience instead of grounding it. Pause your regular practice until your energy settles, then resume when you feel balanced.Stimulants and Psychoactive Substances
Avoid stimulants like caffeine, chocolate, or cannabis, as these can stir up energy and prolong activation. If you choose to use psychoactive medicines, proceed with caution and take significantly lower doses.Overthinking and Pathologizing
It’s normal to feel overwhelmed during prolonged activation, but worrying excessively or assuming something is "wrong" can exacerbate the situation. Trust that the process will resolve in time. Focus on surrendering, breathing deeply, and allowing the experience to unfold naturally.
If questions or concerns arise, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at the Love Awaken or your sponsor for guidance.