Research Topic: phenomenology

Psychedelic-induced mystical experiences: An interdisciplinary discussion and critique

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This paper examines how psychedelic research studies ‘mystical experiences’—profound spiritual-type states often linked to therapeutic benefits. The authors argue that current scientific measures of these experiences are based on Western Christian and colonial-era ideas about mysticism that aren’t universal. They propose that scientists should work more closely with religious scholars and anthropologists to better understand these complex experiences across different cultures and contexts.

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Why psychedelic-assisted therapy studies in eating disorders risk missing the mark on outcomes: a phenomenological psychopathology perspective

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This scientific commentary examines how research on psychedelic-assisted therapy for eating disorders may be missing important aspects of how people actually experience the treatment. The authors argue that current study methods rely too heavily on questionnaires that don’t capture the full depth of what people experience during psychedelic sessions. They propose using phenomenological approaches—methods that deeply explore lived experience—to better understand which aspects of the psychedelic experience actually lead to recovery from eating disorders.

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Deconstructing Psychedelic Phenomenology: A Thematic Analysis of Discrete Phases of the Psychedelic Experience

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This study examined how people describe their experiences with psychedelic drugs by analyzing personal accounts shared online. Researchers found that experiences naturally fall into three phases: preparation (where knowledge and intentions matter), the actual experience (where sensory changes, mindset, and environment shape what happens), and afterward (where lasting behavioral and attitude changes occur). The study highlights how music, nature, supportive people, and clear intentions can help guide psychedelic experiences toward positive, meaningful outcomes.

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Weaving birth: interdependence and the fungal turn

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This article explores how childbirth can be understood through the metaphor of fungal networks, which emphasize connection and interdependence rather than isolation and control. The authors compare two contrasting birth experiences—one marked by feelings of abandonment and the need to defend oneself, the other by trust and surrender—to show how different care models shape birthing experiences. Like fungi that thrive through interconnected relationships, positive births flourish in environments of love, safety, and collective support rather than standardized medical protocols.

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Weaving birth: interdependence and the fungal turn

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This paper explores childbirth through an innovative lens, comparing it to how fungal networks operate—through connection and interdependence rather than isolation. Using real birth stories, the authors show how supportive, trusting care environments allow mothers to surrender to the birthing process, whereas medical systems focused on control and isolation can be traumatic. The paper argues that positive birth experiences happen when pregnant people feel safe, supported, and connected to their care providers, communities, and their own bodies.

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Weaving birth: interdependence and the fungal turn

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This paper explores how childbirth can be understood through the metaphor of fungal networks, which interconnect and support life through relationships rather than individual independence. The authors share personal birth experiences—one traumatic and controlled, one trusting and flowing—to illustrate how care models fundamentally shape birthing experiences. Using phenomenological philosophy, they argue that positive birth experiences emerge when caregivers create environments that allow the birthing person to feel safe, supported, and interconnected with others, similar to how fungi thrive through collaborative relationships.

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