An exploration based on direct experience about the meaning and message of altered states. "Every reader will find this narrative fascinating. A vivid and intensely personal addition to the genre of drug memoirs." —Kirkus Review. "You are such an important piece of psychedelic history." —Joe Rogan Experience, Episode #1854.

The narrative includes many of the author's experiences with altered states of consciousness, both with and without drug use. It applies four interpretative lenses — psychoanalysis, psychopharmacology, Zen Buddhism, and medieval Jewish metaphysics — to understand how and why these experiences occurred.

It highlights the importance of careful and unapologetic reflection and documentation of both pleasant and unpleasant altered states in psychological, emotional, and spiritual life. The questions "Why do we seek altered states of consciousness?" and "What are the differences and similarities of these experiences?" are answered by distinguished psychedelic researcher Rick Strassman, M.D., drawing from his diaries and analyses of dozens of altered consciousness episodes related to his life from birth to early adulthood.

The narrative equally emphasizes euphoric experiences as well as the unfiltered and often painful accounts of less elevated states. These narratives are visually enhanced by the striking images of artist Merrilee Challiss.

Understanding and applying the meaning and message of each altered state first requires a clear reflection of the real experience in all its facets, neither pushing away the ugly nor grasping the beautiful. This book provides a profound example of how one can undertake this challenging task.

Pages: 320, Year of Publication: 0130, Dimensions: 15.2x15.2cm.