After seven years of contemplating, the stars were finally aligned for me to try magical mushrooms. The date was December 31, 2016. I decided one week prior that I would be making my New Years Eve a magical one. - And magical it is was. There were a handful of times throughout the seven years of deliberating where I was very close to the experience, and it just didn't work out. I am extremely happy I waited until I became more open, spiritually. My trip wasn't just a fun adventure, but a very profound one.

( Please note: I am not a licensed medical professional. The information following is based on the trial and error of my own experience. I leave my suggestions with hopes of healing others, but I cannot guarantee that what works for me will also work for you.)

A few things I felt while heightened were - emotional clarity, a relaxed and understanding perspective and a heavy excitement for basically, everything. I didn't relate to any of the negative experiences my friends told me they had in the past, while on mushrooms. I was very attuned to my surroundings. I didn't really hallucinate until I closed my eyes. And even then, I just saw beautiful visuals of shapes, and colors that matched the tempo of the music I was listening to. (I listened to lot of Janelle Monae.) I have been told by many people that I must have been in a really great space mentally, because I did take quite a few.

So here are a few tips that helped me have a great experience... (Also, please be clear that I DO NOT promote the use of drugs or alcohol. Especially to minors who's emotional perspective has not fully developed yet. I am simply sharing my experience and inspiring others to experiment safely - and only once they are ready).

Try Not to Rely on Mushrooms to Solve Any Issues You May be Facing in Your Current Life

I personally wanted to take mushrooms for expansion. I wanted to open my mind to the visual beauty in life that I may be missing out on. Sometimes I find myself having a hard time being present. I wanted to explore a different interpretation or viewpoint that I could possibly bring into my daily routine. There weren't any specific expectations I wanted to acquire from my trip. I was open to it all, because I knew it would all be, beautiful. If you are currently facing any trauma or extremely hard times, I highly recommend self-development work before any type of escapism.

Take a Safe Amount With People or a Person You Trust

I have tripped twice now, and both times I've taken half of an eighth. Thats about 7-10 full mushrooms. I felt like I was in total control of my trip with this amount. The first time around...I guess you could say, wasn't the ideal situation. I was with someone I wasn't fully comfortable around. As soon as the mushrooms hit, and my mental clarity kicked in - I decided it wasn't best to be around them and it was time to go. I retreated to a place that felt like home and the rest of my trip was good vibes and giggles. The second time around I spent with a girlfriend. It was her first time and it was six hours of connection and beautiful realizations. We spent the first portion in nature. Being in the park and admiring all the vibrant colors while laying on my yoga mat was pure heaven. We took a Lyft back to her abundantly, zen apartment. The only lights that were on were hanging Christmas lights and candles. Because my visual senses weren't overly stimulated, I felt like I was able to tap into my consciousness full force and have the best conversation, without mental distraction.

Side note: I don't recommend taking mushrooms and going to a club, or a crazy, busy establishment. This is supposed to be a personal, intimate experience. I also don't recommend drinking excessively while on mushrooms. A little marijuana probably won't hurt though :)

Have an Open Mind - Before, During and After Your Trip

As mentioned above, I am so happy I waited to try mushrooms. I am a completely different person than I was seven years ago. So many life events had to take place in order for me to be the mentally strong woman I am today. Because of my open mind, I was accepting of however my trip would turn out. My only expectation was for me to make the best of any situation faced. For example, my first time around did not go, "according to plan", and I had to leave the location I was going to stay in for the night. I can see how this same situation would have totally disrupted my trip if I didn't go into it with a positive, open mindset. I remember having the most amazing moment of realization, while in solitude. I was sitting in my car and the tears started flowing as I realized how much I've grown within the past two years. Everything that has happened in my life has happened synchronistically for me, and not to me. This was such a beautiful, pivotal moment in my life. The mushrooms aided in me being fully present and grateful with this accomplishment.

There is no depressing "come down" after the mushrooms wear off. I still felt very much on a high after my trip. Knowing I gained enlightenment and confirmation that I am on the right track in life has left me in bliss till this day.

Bonus Tip

If you don't have a healthy diet, I highly recommend eating healthy the days leading up to your trip. You are ingesting a fungus and it's common to feel a bit nauseous for about 10-30 minutes after they kick in. Try not eating 2 hours prior to your trip and staying very hydrated. This should keep the nausea at bay.

Overall, I can say I have gained exactly what I needed. Mushrooms are a gentle aid that I recommend to anyone looking for ascension. I know some people may look at me differently after this post, and I am ok with that. I have a deep connection with my body and mind, and I trusted that this substance from the earth would not harm me. We've been conditioned to think that this psychedelic can intensely alter the mind and take over. Totally not the case in my experience. I've always been someone who isn't afraid of exploring. And I truly believe that anything you explore with positive intent, will be beautiful.

If anyone else out there has tried this magical fungi, please share your experience below :)

How to Take Magical Mushrooms Safely