Ayahuasca Retreats: The Role of Awe and Mystical Experiences in Well-Being.
Journal of psychoactive drugs April 16, 2025 Brant Maclean, Amy Wilson, Andrew Allen et al.
After attending at least one ayahuasca retreat, 60 participants reported on their mystical experiences and well-being. Contrary to expectations, higher levels of mystical experience combined with lower perceived vastness—a facet of awe—were significantly associated with higher well-being. Neither high awe alone nor mystical experiences characterized by high awe predicted better well-being. The findings suggest that modulating the perceived vastness of a psychedelic experience might help reduce distress and promote well-being.