Being a mom in 2023 is not easy. Between juggling work, family, and household responsibilities, many moms feel overwhelmed, anxious, and depressed. Some moms are looking for a natural and effective way to cope with their stress and improve their mood and well-being. That’s why some of them are turning to microdosing mushrooms.
What is Microdosing Mushrooms?
Microdosing mushrooms is the practice of taking very small amounts of psilocybin mushrooms, a type of psychedelic fungi that can induce hallucinations and altered states of consciousness at higher doses. Psilocybin is a chemical compound that affects serotonin receptors in the brain, which are involved in mood, cognition, and perception.
Microdosing mushrooms is different from taking a full-blown trip. Most moms take capsules or powder that contain about 0.1 to 0.3 grams of dried mushrooms, which is about one-tenth or one-twentieth of a typical recreational dose. At this level, they say they don’t feel any noticeable effects, but they notice subtle changes over time.
How Does Microdosing Help Moms?
According to some moms who microdose mushrooms, the benefits include:
- Enhanced mood and emotional stability
- Reduced anxiety and depression
- Increased creativity and productivity
- Improved focus and concentration
- More energy and motivation
- Better sleep quality and duration
- More empathy and compassion
- Greater connection to themselves and others
Some moms say that microdosing mushrooms helps them cope with the challenges of parenting, such as dealing with tantrums, homework, chores, and conflicts. They say they feel more patient, calm, and present with their kids, and they enjoy spending time with them more.
Some moms also say that microdosing mushrooms helps them with their personal growth and development. They say they gain more insight into their own patterns, behaviors, and emotions, and they are able to make positive changes in their lives.
What are the Risks and Challenges of Microdosing Mushrooms?
Microdosing mushrooms is not without risks and challenges. Some of them are:
- Legal status: Psilocybin mushrooms are illegal in most countries, including the United States, where they are classified as a Schedule I substance. This means that possessing, buying, selling, or growing them can result in serious legal consequences. Some cities have recently decriminalized psilocybin mushrooms, but they are still illegal under federal law.
- Lack of research: There is very little scientific research on the effects and safety of microdosing mushrooms, especially in the long term. Most of the evidence comes from anecdotal reports and surveys, which may be biased or inaccurate. There may be unknown side effects or interactions with other medications or substances.
- Dosage and quality: It can be hard to find a reliable source of psilocybin mushrooms, and to measure the exact amount of psilocybin in each dose. Different strains of mushrooms may have different potencies and effects. Some mushrooms may be contaminated with pesticides or other harmful substances.
- Individual variability: The effects of microdosing mushrooms may vary depending on the person’s body chemistry, mindset, environment, and expectations. Some people may experience negative effects such as nausea, headache, fatigue, irritability, or paranoia. Some people may not experience any benefits at all.
- Social stigma: Many people still have negative attitudes towards psychedelics and view them as dangerous or immoral. Some moms may face judgment or criticism from their family members, friends, co-workers, or society at large for using psilocybin mushrooms. Some moms may feel isolated or ashamed for microdosing.
How to Start Microdosing Mushrooms Safely and Responsibly
If you are a mom who is interested in microdosing mushrooms, here are some tips to help you start safely and responsibly:
- Do your research: Learn as much as you can about psilocybin mushrooms and microdosing before you try it. Read books, articles, podcasts, forums, and websites that provide credible information and advice. Consult with a doctor or therapist if you have any medical or mental health conditions or concerns.
- Find a source: Look for a trustworthy source of psilocybin mushrooms that can provide you with high-quality products that are tested for potency and purity. Avoid buying from strangers or online vendors that may scam you or sell you fake or contaminated products.
- Start low: Begin with a very low dose of psilocybin mushrooms, such as 0.1 grams, and see how you feel. You can gradually increase the dose by 0.05 grams until you find your optimal level, which is the lowest dose that gives you the desired benefits without any noticeable effects. Do not exceed 0.3 grams per dose.
- Follow a schedule: Choose a regular schedule for microdosing, such as once every three days, or four times a week. Do not microdose every day, as this may reduce the effectiveness and increase the tolerance and side effects of psilocybin. Take breaks from microdosing every few weeks or months to avoid dependency or habituation.
- Track your progress: Keep a journal or use an app to track your microdosing experience. Record the date, time, dose, and strain of psilocybin mushrooms you take, and how you feel before, during, and after microdosing. Note any changes in your mood, cognition, behavior, and well-being. Review your progress regularly and adjust your dose or schedule as needed.
- Be mindful: Pay attention to how microdosing affects you in different aspects of your life. Observe how you interact with your kids, your partner, your friends, and yourself. Notice any challenges or opportunities that arise from microdosing. Use microdosing as a tool to enhance your awareness and growth, not as a crutch or escape.
- Seek support: Find a supportive community of other moms who microdose mushrooms, or join a group or program that offers guidance and education on microdosing. Share your experiences, questions, and insights with others who understand and respect your choices. Seek professional help if you encounter any problems or difficulties with microdosing.
Conclusion
Microdosing mushrooms is a growing trend among moms who want to cope with their stress and improve their well-being. Microdosing mushrooms can have various benefits for moms, such as enhancing their mood, creativity, energy, and empathy. However, microdosing mushrooms also has some risks and challenges, such as legal status, lack of research, dosage and quality issues, individual variability, and social stigma.
If you are a mom who wants to try microdosing mushrooms, make sure you do your research, find a source, start low, follow a schedule, track your progress, be mindful, and seek support. Microdosing mushrooms is not a magic bullet or a quick fix for your problems. It is a personal journey that requires intention, responsibility, and self-care.
