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What is a magic mushroom ceremony?

What is a magic mushroom ceremony and can it be done in the Netherlands?

The magic mushroom ceremony explained

A magic mushroom ceremony is a guided, ritualistic session in which participants, under professional guidance, experience the psychedelic effects of psilocybin - the active ingredient in magic mushrooms - experience. During this ceremony, inner exploration, spiritual growth and healing of emotional blockages take centre stage. The location of the ceremony is carefully designed: a quiet, safe and often natural environment in which the participant has the opportunity to go on a journey with an open mind and a clear intention. Guidance helps participants prepare, experience itself and integrate the insights into daily life. Such a ceremony not only offers a unique, often transformative experience, but also supports the process of processing old emotions and traumas.

Are magic mushrooms even legal?

The legality of magic mushrooms is an issue with nuances in the Netherlands. Magic mushrooms banned since 2008 because of their psychoactive active substances. In the Netherlands, underground sclerotia - better known as magic truffles - are legal. Because truffles contain the same active substances as mushrooms, many ceremonial sessions in the Netherlands are organised based on magic truffles. This allows interested parties to legally participate in a mushroom ceremony, provided the right form (truffles) is used. This legal space allows for safe, controlled and legal rituals that contribute to personal growth and healing.

So is a truffle retreat allowed?

Sure! Since Dutch law allows the sale and use of psilocybin-containing truffles, truffle retreats can also be organised legally. During such a retreat, you not only get the opportunity to have profound inner experiences, but can also complement it with therapeutic support. This includes preparation with coaching, group sessions and integration talks after the experience. The emphasis is on the safe and responsible use of the truffles in an environment designed to support you in your spiritual and personal growth.

What are the differences between truffles and magic mushrooms?

Sure! Since Dutch law allows the sale and use of psilocybin-containing truffles, truffle retreats can also be organised legally. During such a retreat, you not only get the opportunity to have profound inner experiences, but can also complement it with therapeutic support. This includes preparation with coaching, group sessions and integration talks after the experience. The emphasis is on the safe and responsible use of the truffles in an environment designed to support you in your spiritual and personal growth.

Paddotherapy for the brain
Magic truffles

So is a truffle retreat allowed?

Although both magic mushrooms and magic truffles contain psilocybin and can therefore have similar psychedelic effects, there are some differences:

  • Shape and structure:
    Mushrooms usually have a stem and a cap, while truffles form the underground sclerotia of the mushroom and have a knobbly, compact shape.

  • Flavour: In general, people find magic mushrooms just a little less gross than magic truffles.

 

  • Concentration and dosage:
    Although the amount of active ingredient can vary, when measured correctly, the effects of truffles and mushrooms are similar. In truffle therapy, a slight variation in dosage is often not a problem and can even contribute to a broader, more nuanced experience.

  • Legality:
    In the Netherlands, dried mushrooms are banned, but truffles fall outside these regulations, making them legally available and allowed to be used in ceremonies and retreats.

Because of these differences, truffles can be used as a safe and reliable alternative in a therapeutic or spiritual setting.

What does science say about magic mushrooms?

Recent scientific studies conducted by institutions such as Imperial College London and Johns Hopkins University have shown that psilocybin shows promise in the treatment of therapy-resistant depression, anxiety disorders and PTSD, among others. Among other things, the active substance promotes neuroplasticity and can lead to restructuring of brain connections. These findings support the therapeutic and spiritual uses of magic mushrooms and truffles and provide an important argument for incorporating these experiences in a supervised setting. This scientific foundation reinforces the value of a well-prepared ceremony and offers hope to those seeking alternative treatment methods.

Signing up for a ceremony

Are you curious about the transformative power of a magic mushroom ceremony? You can easily sign up for a ceremony or retreat. You start the registration by filling in the intake. In it you indicate what your personal goals are and some other details so we can prepare you better. After this screening, you will receive practical tips and, in consultation with our experienced guides, you can plan a date for your ceremony.

We recommend thinking carefully about your intention before the ceremony: what do you want to discover, heal or experience? With the right preparation and guidance, your journey will be a safe and meaningful step towards personal growth. Do you have questions about the procedure or want to know more about the preparation? Then get in touch, fill in the intake or read more about psilocybin ceremonies through the options below.