Journey Into The Mystic

Eros Platform

Welcome to “Journey into the Mystic,” a podcast where we uncover the powerful intersections between the mystical and Eros. Eros is an essential energy force emerging from our desire for connection—with ourselves, others, and the world. It evokes beauty and leads us to understand essential truths, unifying masculine and feminine energies into creativity and genius. There’s lots of discussion in mental health fields around “Mystical Experience” as means to addressing most pernicious mental health issues of our time (depression, addiction, PTSD). New paper recently published shows Orgasmic Meditation (OM) effective in inducing mystical state: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=5120807 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episodes

  1. 04/03/2025

    Liberation through Eros and Altered States

    In this episode of Journey into the Mystic, host Rachel Pelletier delves into the powerful connections between mystical states and Eros with guest Erica Siegel, LCSW, a psychedelic-assisted psychotherapist. They explore themes of liberation, healing, and connection, discussing practices and philosophies that unlock new dimensions of being. The conversation touches on the implications of altered states for healing and wellbeing, the ethics and safety regarding psychedelics and consent, and personal journeys with mystical practices. Erica shares her professional experience with MDMA-assisted psychotherapy and harm reduction, while Rachel reflects on her own extensive background in erotic practice and mystical exploration. 00:00 Introduction to Journey into the Mystic 01:14 Meet Your Host: Rachel Pier 01:56 Introducing Erica Siegel 04:54 Diving into Mystical States and Consent 07:59 Erica's Journey with Psychedelics 12:02 The Intersection of Hospitality and Psychedelics 14:15 From Social Work to Psychedelic Therapy 25:05 Challenges in Psychedelic Research 28:58 The Role of a Facilitator 29:30 Medicalization of Psychedelics 31:29 Mystical States and Connection 33:31 Ethical Considerations in Psychedelic Use 35:38 Balancing Modern Life and Ethical Choices 37:55 Exploring Mystical States in Religion 42:50 Personal Journey and Identity 47:39 Challenges in Psychedelic Integration 52:37 Concluding Thoughts and Future Discussions Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    53 min
  2. 04/01/2025

    Exceptional Experiences: From Psychedelics to Dream Yoga

    In this episode of 'Journey into the Mystic', host Rachel Pelletier welcomes Dr. David Luke, an associate professor of psychology at the University of Greenwich and Perrier Warwick, Senior researcher at Trinity College, Cambridge. They dive deep into the intersections of mystical states and Eros, exploring themes of liberation, healing, and connection. Rachel, an erotic practitioner with over 18 years of experience, discusses her exploration of mystical states through Orgasmic Meditation (OM) and psychedelics. Dr. Luke shares his research on transpersonal experiences, psychedelics, and altered states of consciousness, emphasizing the profound and often transformative impact of these experiences on mental health and wellbeing. They discuss the potential of psychedelics in therapeutic settings, the significance of mystical experiences in addiction recovery, and the broader implications for personal and societal growth. 00:00 Introduction to the Mystic and Eros 01:54 Introducing Dr. David Luke 03:32 The Intersection of Psychedelics and Mystical States 03:59 Orgasmic Meditation and Mystical Experiences 06:40 David Luke's Journey and Research 17:26 Exploring Lucid Dreaming and Precognition 20:19 Intuition and Non-Ordinary Perception 24:55 Exploring the Mystical Experience 26:39 Impact of DMT on Spiritual Orientation 27:37 Research Insights on DMT 28:52 The Astonishing Nature of DMT Experiences 30:06 Mapping the DMT Landscape 32:34 Nature Connectedness and Psychedelics 35:08 The Future of Psychedelics in Medicine 44:40 Personal Reflections and Future Directions 46:25 Conclusion and Farewell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    47 min
  3. 10/14/2024

    Eros, Enlightenment, and Eudaimonia- with Bob Roth

    This podcast episode, hosted by Rachel Pelletier, delves into the intersections of mystical experiences and the concept of eudaimonia, or human flourishing. Pelletier discusses her journey from addiction to finding a deeper connection with life through experiential learning and meditation. Her guest, renowned meditation teacher Bob Roth, shares insights from his extensive experience in teaching Transcendental Meditation. They explore the idea of living a life aligned with one's true nature and discuss how mystical states induced by meditation and other practices can guide personal growth and well-being. The conversation touches on the power of Eros and creativity, the role of institutional change, and the natural alignment with one's purpose. Roth shares the significance of eudaimonia within Transcendental Meditation, and Pelletier reflects on her life's work of liberating Eros and the challenges faced in doing so. The dialogue underscores the transformative power of mystical states and the aspiration for a society where these inner resources are fully accessed and realized. 00:31 Welcome to Journey into the Mystic 02:20 Meet Bob Roth: Meditation Expert 04:07 Exploring Eudaimonia: Human Flourishing 09:06 The Essence of Eros and Connection 13:21 Rachel's Personal Journey and Insights 25:26 A Journey into Politics and Meditation 26:38 The Dark Times and the Light of Meditation 26:54 Rituals, Rites, and Mental Health 29:00 The Concept of Tumescence 32:03 Eudaimonia and Personal Growth 33:25 Childhood Memories and ADHD 35:56 Harnessing Eros and Creativity 43:16 The Power of Mystical States 46:27 Final Thoughts and Reflections Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    48 min
  4. 10/10/2024

    Ibogaine & Transformation: Dimitri Mugianis' Story

    This podcast episode of 'Journey into the Mystic' delves into the intersection of mystical states and healing practices, featuring Dimitri Moujiannis, a harm reduction advocate and psychedelic practitioner. The discussion covers the transformative potential of mystical states achieved through psychedelics, meditation, and other practices, and their role in personal growth, healing, and societal transformation. Dimitri, known for his work with Ibogaine to treat heroin addiction, shares his journey and insights from over 500 Ibogaine ceremonies, including his own battle with addiction. The conversation also critiques the reductionist approach of modern psychiatry and emphasizes the importance of agency, spiritual experiences, and community-oriented healing frameworks. The episode illustrates how ceremonial practices from various cultures and the arts can create meaningful spaces for personal and communal healing. 00:00 Introduction to the Mystic and Eros 01:36 Guest Introduction: Dimitri Moujiannis 04:01 Dimitri's Journey with Ibogaine 05:01 Personal Struggles and Transformation 09:30 Ibogaine Experience and Recovery 19:53 Return to Greece and Ancestral Connection 25:14 Initiation and Practice in Gabon 32:23 The Medicalized Lie and Integration 33:25 The Medical Gaze and Different Perspectives 35:39 Healing Narratives and Mystical States 38:18 The Christ Story and Mystical Healing 41:30 Challenging Corrosive Systems with Psychedelics 43:49 Creating a New Cultural Container for Healing 52:42 The Importance of Contribution and Community 56:23 Science, Mysticism, and the Role of Research 01:05:41 Final Thoughts and Reflections Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 6m
  5. 08/24/2024

    Exploring the Sacred Mushroom: Insights from Lama Mike Crowley

    In this episode of 'Journey into the Mystic,' host Rachel Pelletier delves into the realms of the mystical and the erotic with guest Lama Mike Crowley, also known as the Psychedelic Lama. Lama Mike brings his extensive experience in Tibetan Buddhism and psychedelics to the discussion, exploring the symbolism of various deities, the intersection of mystical states with psychoactive substances like Amanita muscaria and Psilocybe cubensis, and the profound traditions within Vajrayana Buddhism. The conversation spans historical, mythological, and symbolic dimensions of mystical practices, offering deep insights into the spiritual and transcendent experiences fostered by these potent intersections. The conversation also touches on ancient Vedic texts, the mythology of Soma, and the historical similarities between the stories of Mahavira and the Buddha. 00:00 Introduction to the Mystic Journey 01:50 Meet Lama Mike Crowley: The Psychedelic Lama 03:34 Exploring Ramati and Symbolism in Tibetan Buddhism 04:39 The Mystical Significance of Amanita Muscaria 05:18 Vajrayogini and Other Deities 07:30 Padmasambhava and Tibetan Legends 21:04 The Churning of the Ocean: Hindu and Buddhist Myths 30:25 The Symbolism of the Peacock Parasol 31:56 The Mystical Properties of Mushrooms 41:35 Comparing Jainism and Buddhism 44:23 Conclusion and Future Discussions Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    45 min
  6. 08/16/2024

    Exploring the Enigmatic Intersection: Mystical Buddhism and Psychedelics with Lama Mike Crowley

    In this episode of 'Journey into the Mystic,' host Rachel Pelletier delves into the profound connections between mystical experiences and the energy of Eros with Lama Mike Crowley, a pioneering figure in the intersection of Tibetan Buddhism and psychedelics. Crowley, known as the Psychedelic Lama, shares his experiences and insights on the use of psychoactive substances in spiritual practices, recounting his personal journey and interactions with renowned Buddhist figures. They discuss the historical and spiritual significance of substances like soma and amrita, and the impact of psychedelics on perception and meditation practices. The conversation also touches on the challenges and insights of integrating these experiences into personal growth and well-being. Join them for an exploration of liberation, healing, and the quest for deeper understanding. 00:00 Introduction to Journey into the Mystic 00:48 Exploring Mystical States 01:43 Meet Lama Mike Crowley 04:26 Lama Mike's Early Encounters with Psychedelics 05:21 Trungpa Rinpoche and LSD 10:39 Meeting Radha Chimi Rinpoche 19:21 Vajrayogini Practice and Psychedelics 25:29 The Concept of Amrita in Buddhism 28:49 Reconstructing the Original Soma 30:25 The Vedas and Soma 31:33 Soma and Cannabis: Clarifications 32:50 Different Types of Soma 34:46 Amrita and Soma in Buddhist Context 38:12 Psychedelics in Tibetan Buddhism 42:43 Modern Use of Psychedelics in Buddhism 54:32 The Impact of Psychedelics on the Mind 56:20 The Search for Emptiness and Ending Suffering 01:01:21 Concluding Thoughts and Future Discussions Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 2m
  7. 08/16/2024

    Transcendental Meditation and Mystical States with Bob Roth

    In this episode of 'Journey into the Mystic,' host Rachel Pelletier speaks with Bob Roth, an experienced meditation teacher and executive director of the David Lynch Foundation. The podcast uncovers the intersections between mystical states and the energy force Eros. Bob shares his journey into Transcendental Meditation, its profound impact on his life, and its potential for broad societal benefits. Topics include the purpose of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in spreading TM, the significance of mystical states, scientific research on meditation, and personal stories highlighting the transformative power of meditation. 00:00 Introduction to the Mystic and Eros 01:36 Meet Your Host: Rachel Pelletier 02:19 Introducing Bob Roth: Meditation Expert 03:58 Bob Roth's Journey into Meditation 04:53 The Impact of Transcendental Meditation 06:06 Bob Roth's Early Life and Political Aspirations 08:46 Discovering Transcendental Meditation 12:58 The Science and Benefits of Meditation 23:20 Personal Reflections on Meditation 25:30 Embracing Oneness with the Universe 26:08 The Power of Meditation in Daily Life 27:01 Understanding Emptiness and Its Significance 28:32 Addressing Misconceptions About Emptiness 30:12 The Role of Meditation in Overcoming Fear 32:20 Maharishi's Views on Psychedelics and Sexuality 36:37 The Importance of Eudaimonia 39:33 Meditation Programs and Their Impact 43:20 A Heartfelt Story of Meditation's Power 46:29 Closing Thoughts and Future Discussions Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    47 min
  8. 08/16/2024

    Exploring Neurotheology: Mysticism, Sexuality, and Spiritual Experiences with Dr. Andrew Newberg

    In this episode of 'Journey into the Mystic,' host Rachel Pelletier delves into the profound connections between mystical experiences and the energy of Eros. Joined by Dr. Andrew Newberg, a leading neuroscientist specializing in the study of spiritual experiences, they discuss the underlying brain mechanisms during mystical states. The conversation covers orgasmic meditation, the role of the autonomic nervous system, and the transformative power of these experiences on personal well-being. They also explore the challenges of interpreting and measuring enlightenment, highlighting the intersection of sexuality, spirituality, and neuroscience. This episode offers deep insights into how different practices, from meditation to psychedelics, can lead to profound states of unity and understanding. 00:00 Introduction to the Mystic Journey 00:41 Understanding Mystical States 01:36 Meet Your Host: Rachel Pelletier 02:19 Introducing Dr. Andrew Newberg 03:27 Exploring Sexuality and Spirituality 04:18 The Brain and Mystical Experiences 05:28 Neurotheology: Bridging Science and Spirituality 07:17 Impact of Mystical Experiences on Beliefs 08:39 Research on Spiritual Experiences 13:46 Orgasmic Meditation and the Brain 28:42 The Role of Social Interaction in Mystical Practices 35:11 General vs. Sexual Arousal in Mystical States 42:43 The Universal Quest for Mystical Experiences 45:47 The Challenge of Defining Mystical Experiences 53:45 Can Enlightenment Be Tracked in the Brain? 57:02 Conclusion and Future Directions Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    58 min

About

Welcome to “Journey into the Mystic,” a podcast where we uncover the powerful intersections between the mystical and Eros. Eros is an essential energy force emerging from our desire for connection—with ourselves, others, and the world. It evokes beauty and leads us to understand essential truths, unifying masculine and feminine energies into creativity and genius. There’s lots of discussion in mental health fields around “Mystical Experience” as means to addressing most pernicious mental health issues of our time (depression, addiction, PTSD). New paper recently published shows Orgasmic Meditation (OM) effective in inducing mystical state: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=5120807 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.