Understanding Reactivations
Reactivation refers to the phenomenon where some individuals experience aspects of their initial 5-MeO-DMT journey after the primary effects have subsided. These episodes, which can range from subtle echoes to full re-immersions into state, most commonly occur within three to seven days of the journey. Participants often experience the effects between 2 and 4 a.m, although they can occur at all times of the day and may happen months after the initial journey. Fondly referred to as “Night School,” or the "Gift that Keeps on Giving,” reactivations are typically positive and serve as part of the natural integration process. Not all individuals will experience reactivations, but for those who do, triggers may include psychoactive substances, meditation, breathwork, or even sleep and dreaming.
Research by Ana M. Ortiz and colleagues indicates that reactivations are relatively common among 5-MeO-DMT users, with prevalence rates ranging from 27% to 86%. Importantly, the majority of these reactivations are perceived positively or neutrally, with only a small percentage (4% to 7%) reporting negative experiences. Despite the range of possibilities, many feel reactivations are opportunities for deeper integration.
The nature of reactivations varies widely, from blissful and expansive to emotionally or physically challenging. Unlike Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD), or “Flashbacks,” reactivations are not associated with persistent visual disturbances. They may manifest emotionally (e.g., joy or fear), somatically (e.g., bodily sensations or tremors), or transpersonally (e.g., ego dissolution or boundlessness). These experiences are often manageable through grounding techniques such as yoga, exercise, or therapeutic support. The guiding principle regarding reactivations is simple yet profound: surrender and breathe. Trusting the process and focusing on your breath helps cultivate relaxation, presence within this expanded state of consciousness.