Transpersonal Ecodelia: Surveying Psychedelically Induced Biophilia

This online survey study (n=272) explores the influence of psychedelic experiences on participants’ connection with nature. Results reveal that participants with a pre-existing relationship with nature found psychedelics to strengthen this connection, while those without a prior connection felt psychedelics helped them bond with the natural world. The commonly reported transpersonal experience of ‘interconnectedness’ was associated with shifts in attitudes and behaviours. Participants also reported benefits from psychedelic experiences that took place in natural settings.

Abstract of Transpersonal Ecodelia

“Objective: To explore the perceived influence of psychedelic experiences on participants’ relationship with the natural world.

Method: A total of 272 participants reporting previous use of psychedelics completed free-text response requests via an online survey. Thematic analysis was used to explore group participant responses.

Results: Participants who described a pre-existing relationship with nature reported that psychedelics acted to re-establish and bolster their connection to nature. Those reporting no previously established connection to nature described psychedelics as helping them bond with the natural world. Underlying both of these were reports of transpersonal experiences, of which ‘interconnectedness’ was most frequently linked to shifts in attitudes and behaviours. Participants were also asked to reflect on previous psychedelic experiences that took place in nature and reported a range of benefits of the natural setting.

Conclusions: These findings suggest that psychedelics have the capacity to elicit a connection with nature that is passionate and protective, even among those who were not previously nature oriented. More research is needed to explore the potential implications of psychedelic use outside laboratory-controlled settings in order to enhance these important effects.”

Authors: Alexander Irvine, David Luke, Freya Harrild, Sam Gandy & Rosalind Watts