Navigating Non-Monogamy and Open Relationships on Psychedelics
Non-monogamy and open relationships have become increasingly popular over the years, with more people exploring the idea of loving and being intimate with multiple partners. Check out all the interviews I’ve done on this topic, here. The use of psychedelics, such as LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, and MDMA, has also been on the rise, particularly in therapeutic and spiritual contexts. So what happens when these two worlds collide? How can you navigate non-monogamy and open relationships on psychedelics?
Firstly, it’s important to understand that non-monogamy and psychedelics can be a potent combination. Psychedelics have the ability to break down barriers and open up new perspectives, which can be incredibly helpful in exploring and strengthening non-monogamous relationships. However, the use of psychedelics can also amplify emotions and intensify experiences, making the journey complex.
Here are some tips on navigating non-monogamy and open relationships on psychedelics:
Communication is key
As with any relationship, communication is essential when it comes to navigating non-monogamy and psychedelics. Talk to your partner(s) about your intentions, fears, and boundaries before embarking on a psychedelic journey. Discuss what kind of experiences you hope to have, and how you can support each other throughout the process. Being on the same page with intentions is CRUCIAL. If one person is looking for psychedelics to open the other person up to intimate or sexual experiences, but they aren’t expressing this, there may be a potential for harm if the other person is not sharing the same intention.
Further, Psychedelics can open us up to share aspects of ourselves that are very vulnerable. If we don’t already have the foundation of trust in the relationship, we may be opening ourselves up to another person too quickly, forming a deep bond even before we have enough experience with this person to suggest they are someone we can trust.
Set boundaries
Non-monogamy and psychedelics can both be intense and overwhelming experiences. It’s important to set clear boundaries with your partner(s) before using psychedelics. This can include boundaries around physical touch, emotional support, and communication during the experience. Are we equipped to hold emotional processes or traumas should those surface? Is there someone we can call should we need further support? Similarly, have boundaries around aftercare. Are we open to snuggling? Are you going to stay the night or do we need to set up a car ride situation?
Consent is crucial
In non-monogamous, and really all relationships, consent is the foundation for safe, healthy, relationships. In order to have consent, we need to have honesty + agency, as well. Is everyone sharing openly + honestly about what they desire + what they are available/not available for? Does everyone feel they have agency to make decisions for themselves? Does everyone feel they are free from pressure + coercion to say “yes” “no” + change their minds to opt out at anytime? Make sure you have explicit consent from all parties involved before engaging in any physical or emotional experiences on psychedelics.
Be mindful of jealousy + fear
No emotions are bad. They all have a purpose + information for us. But some emotions can overwhelm us making it difficult for us to understand what it is wanting us to know or do. As much as psychedelics can soften our anxiety, it can also amplify them. If you’re exploring non-monogamy, it’s important to be mindful of your emotions and how they might be amplified on psychedelics. If these emotions are patterns in your relationship, this can be a time to explore them with your partner(s). HOWEVER, it’s going to be so important that you use your tools for self-regulation so they don’t overwhelm you + leave you feeling less able to converse. Talking about any feelings of jealousy or insecurity, and working together to find ways to support each other, can be a powerful way of deepening the intimacy of your own self + develop the reference point of you taking a stand for your needs + self-soothing your fears.
Practice self-care
Psychedelic experiences can be incredibly intense, and it’s important to take care of yourself both during and after the experience. Make sure you have a safe and comfortable space to explore, and take breaks if needed. Have snacks + water available, soothing music + a non-interruptible space. After the experience, give yourself time to integrate the insights and emotions you’ve experienced. Aftercare helps us to transition out of an intense space like this. Integration is the process we go through ot help us make sense out of what we just experienced.
Navigating non-monogamy and open relationships on psychedelics can be a transformative and rewarding experience. However, it’s important to approach it with caution, clear communication, and respect for all parties involved. With mindfulness and care, non-monogamy and psychedelics can be powerful tools for personal growth and connection. I highly recommend checking out my guide about finding the right facilitator or program on sex, psychedelics, or plant medicine.
Listen to my podcast with Alexa Bowditch about First Date Sex + Being Monogamish or any podcasts I have been on talking about non-monogamy + poly, here.
Disclaimer: This class is for educational purposes only. We are not providing health advice or recommendations that you engage in illegal activity. This is not intended to provide psychiatric diagnosis, treatment, psychotherapy, psychedelic substances, referrals, or medical advice. Ingesting psychedelic compounds is never completely safe. Adverse effects can occur from ingesting psychedelic drugs, including PTSD or seizures. Please discuss with your medical provider about health fit + any medications that might interfere. These medicines are not safe for all consumers. We are providing harm reduction information to seekers interested in safely working with it. We do not advocate for, endorse, or intend for this report to be used to violate federal law.