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Psychedelics and the Soul: A Mythic Guide to Psychedelic Healing, Depth Psychology, and Cultural Repair
A mythological journey through 10 archetypes of psychedelic ancient stories, tangible tools, and depth psychology insights
Designed for a new generation of psychedelic facilitators and seekers, Psychedelics and the Soul invokes the traditions of Jungian depth psychology, mythology, and Indigenous cultural wisdom to meet a critical question of our How can the emerging field of psychedelic medicine heal the soul amid planetary crisis and collective opportunity?
Psychedelic therapist Simon Yugler invites the reader on a mythological journey, using depth psychology to explore 10 universal themes that transcend our individual experiences—and reveal how psychedelic medicine can heal the soul and our collective unconscious in a time of uncertainty and
The The Unconscious, Symbolism, & the Mythic UnknownThe Beyond Set & SettingThe Initiation, Grief, & the Descent to SoulThe The Body, the Shadow, & Shedding Your SkinThe Marginality, The Crossroads, & the Guide of SoulsThe Trauma, Exiles, & the Archetypal WoundThe Power, Liminality, & Inner AuthorityThe Sacred Ecstasy, Vision & Mystical ExperiencesThe Tree of Animism, Climate Change, & the Ensouled EarthThe Journey Integration, Community, & Feeding the Village
Each archetype acts as a prism, using myth, fable, and universal wisdom to reflect back to the reader the collective experiences and unconscious truths that shape our psyches—and that are made more profound and accessible through psychedelics. Yugler shares how entheogens and plant medicine open a gateway to our understanding of our culture, selves, and interconnected reality toward wide-scale social and planetary healing.
Designed for a new generation of psychedelic facilitators and seekers, Psychedelics and the Soul invokes the traditions of Jungian depth psychology, mythology, and Indigenous cultural wisdom to meet a critical question of our How can the emerging field of psychedelic medicine heal the soul amid planetary crisis and collective opportunity?
Psychedelic therapist Simon Yugler invites the reader on a mythological journey, using depth psychology to explore 10 universal themes that transcend our individual experiences—and reveal how psychedelic medicine can heal the soul and our collective unconscious in a time of uncertainty and
The The Unconscious, Symbolism, & the Mythic UnknownThe Beyond Set & SettingThe Initiation, Grief, & the Descent to SoulThe The Body, the Shadow, & Shedding Your SkinThe Marginality, The Crossroads, & the Guide of SoulsThe Trauma, Exiles, & the Archetypal WoundThe Power, Liminality, & Inner AuthorityThe Sacred Ecstasy, Vision & Mystical ExperiencesThe Tree of Animism, Climate Change, & the Ensouled EarthThe Journey Integration, Community, & Feeding the Village
Each archetype acts as a prism, using myth, fable, and universal wisdom to reflect back to the reader the collective experiences and unconscious truths that shape our psyches—and that are made more profound and accessible through psychedelics. Yugler shares how entheogens and plant medicine open a gateway to our understanding of our culture, selves, and interconnected reality toward wide-scale social and planetary healing.
- GenresSpiritualityPsychology
320 pages, Paperback
Published October 1, 2024
36 people are currently reading
252 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
July 18, 2025
"It's a strange thought, but some gods want to be devoured."
Lengthy in title, this book uses incredibly well-done brevity in covering its topics: psychedelics as a medicine, as a tradition, as a hint to a way of life that is incongruent with the Euro-American West's soulless, disconnected, commercial type of being. Introduced by myths from various cultures, Yugler uses beautiful writing, Jungian psychology, and tales from his own experiences as a psychedelic user and facilitator to introduce us to these worlds.
I started this book during finals season—rookie mistake. Still, though it took me far longer than usual to finish, I thought about the book and its contents just about everyday, and to say it put voice to a lot of what I've been feeling lately (about life in the West, more broadly), but through a lens I never imagined (mushrooms!, to put it narrowly) was a surprise.
If you're interested more in psychedelics as an activity than the cultural, psychological, and mythic analyses, as I was, you'll also enjoy this. It has practical, grounded, how-tos at the end of chapters, translating the metaphor-heavy discussions into concrete advice for delving into this world.
And, on that point, one thing I appreciated greatly was Yugler's touching on of the so-called New Age Spirituality movement—in this context, the "Psychedelic Renaissance." So often, I grab books that appear similar in premise or style to this one, only to find them hollow. That is not this book, however. Instead, it feels like something I would find in the library of someone experienced, pages worn and thumbed through time and time again.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
Lengthy in title, this book uses incredibly well-done brevity in covering its topics: psychedelics as a medicine, as a tradition, as a hint to a way of life that is incongruent with the Euro-American West's soulless, disconnected, commercial type of being. Introduced by myths from various cultures, Yugler uses beautiful writing, Jungian psychology, and tales from his own experiences as a psychedelic user and facilitator to introduce us to these worlds.
I started this book during finals season—rookie mistake. Still, though it took me far longer than usual to finish, I thought about the book and its contents just about everyday, and to say it put voice to a lot of what I've been feeling lately (about life in the West, more broadly), but through a lens I never imagined (mushrooms!, to put it narrowly) was a surprise.
If you're interested more in psychedelics as an activity than the cultural, psychological, and mythic analyses, as I was, you'll also enjoy this. It has practical, grounded, how-tos at the end of chapters, translating the metaphor-heavy discussions into concrete advice for delving into this world.
And, on that point, one thing I appreciated greatly was Yugler's touching on of the so-called New Age Spirituality movement—in this context, the "Psychedelic Renaissance." So often, I grab books that appear similar in premise or style to this one, only to find them hollow. That is not this book, however. Instead, it feels like something I would find in the library of someone experienced, pages worn and thumbed through time and time again.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
March 10, 2025
Thank you, Simon. This book, cover to cover, is a must for any human being , curious about, or currently exploring the depths of psychedelic medicine.
Simon guides the reader through a rich tapestry of myth, depth psychology and personal reflection, weaving all modalities into a rich and integral foundation.
After a few years of working with these medicines and reading several books on the subject, not to mention quality podcasts, I can say his book is the most complete picture of the whole value of doing this work.
I am grateful and look forward to keeping this book as a go to reference and guide.
Simon guides the reader through a rich tapestry of myth, depth psychology and personal reflection, weaving all modalities into a rich and integral foundation.
After a few years of working with these medicines and reading several books on the subject, not to mention quality podcasts, I can say his book is the most complete picture of the whole value of doing this work.
I am grateful and look forward to keeping this book as a go to reference and guide.
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April 22, 2024Interesting - looks at tripping through the lens of mythology, archetypes and Jungian psychology.
I felt the retelling of the myths could be edited down, and the book was a bit dense, but there was a lot of useful information especially if you want to be trip sitter/facilitator for others.
I felt the retelling of the myths could be edited down, and the book was a bit dense, but there was a lot of useful information especially if you want to be trip sitter/facilitator for others.
October 2, 2024
Simon Yugler’s Psychedelics and the Soul offers a profound exploration of the intersection between depth psychology, mythology, and psychedelic healing. Designed for both seasoned psychedelic facilitators and seekers on the path of self-discovery, this book invites readers to embark on a mythological journey through 10 archetypes, each representing different aspects of the psyche and the human experience. By blending the wisdom of Jungian psychology with Indigenous traditions and contemporary psychedelic practices, Yugler provides a rich and timely guide to using psychedelics as a tool for healing not just the individual soul, but the collective unconscious in a world teetering on the edge of crisis.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is its use of archetypes—universal themes that transcend individual experiences—to frame the psychedelic journey. Each chapter is dedicated to a specific archetype, including The Well, The Underworld, The Serpent, and The Sacred Mountain, among others. Yugler’s choice of these timeless symbols allows readers to engage with their psychedelic experiences on a deeper, more meaningful level. Rather than seeing psychedelics as mere tools for therapeutic or recreational use, he encourages readers to view them as gateways to the mythic unknown, offering opportunities for personal and collective transformation.
Yugler’s approach to psychedelics is deeply rooted in Jungian depth psychology, which emphasizes the importance of exploring the unconscious mind and confronting the shadow—the repressed or hidden aspects of ourselves. His chapter on The Underworld, for example, delves into the difficult but essential process of facing grief, trauma, and the soul’s descent into darkness. By likening this experience to ancient myths of descent and return, Yugler helps readers contextualize the sometimes terrifying or painful aspects of psychedelic healing as part of a larger, universal process of transformation and rebirth.
What sets Psychedelics and the Soul apart from other works in the emerging field of psychedelic literature is its emphasis on the collective dimensions of healing. In chapters like The Tree of Life, Yugler addresses how psychedelics can foster a deeper connection with the Earth and raise awareness of global challenges like climate change. This chapter is particularly relevant in today’s context, as it explores how psychedelic experiences can reawaken our animistic instincts—our recognition that the Earth is alive and ensouled, and that our healing is intimately tied to the healing of the planet. This connection to the Earth feels vital and urgent, providing a fresh perspective on the role psychedelics can play in environmental and social activism.
Throughout the book, Yugler skillfully weaves together mythological storytelling, psychological insights, and practical tools for integration. His background as a psychedelic therapist shines through in his emphasis on the importance of integration, particularly in the final chapter, The Journey Home. Here, he focuses on the crucial process of making sense of psychedelic experiences after the journey, a stage that is often overlooked. By drawing on Indigenous wisdom traditions that emphasize community and ritual, Yugler reminds readers that the journey doesn’t end when the psychedelic effects wear off—it continues through the work of weaving the insights gained back into everyday life, relationships, and the broader community.
Another strength of this book is its accessibility. While Yugler draws from complex psychological and mythological concepts, his writing remains approachable, offering tangible tools and reflective exercises that readers can engage with. This makes the book not only intellectually stimulating but also highly practical for those looking to deepen their own healing journeys or support others in doing so.
In conclusion, Psychedelics and the Soul is an essential read for anyone interested in the transformative potential of psychedelics, especially those who seek to go beyond the personal and explore the larger mythic and collective dimensions of healing. Simon Yugler’s integration of depth psychology, mythology, and Indigenous wisdom provides a holistic framework for understanding the psychedelic experience as a path to soul healing and planetary regeneration. At a time when the world is facing unprecedented challenges, Yugler’s vision of psychedelic medicine as a tool for both personal and collective awakening feels not only relevant but deeply necessary.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is its use of archetypes—universal themes that transcend individual experiences—to frame the psychedelic journey. Each chapter is dedicated to a specific archetype, including The Well, The Underworld, The Serpent, and The Sacred Mountain, among others. Yugler’s choice of these timeless symbols allows readers to engage with their psychedelic experiences on a deeper, more meaningful level. Rather than seeing psychedelics as mere tools for therapeutic or recreational use, he encourages readers to view them as gateways to the mythic unknown, offering opportunities for personal and collective transformation.
Yugler’s approach to psychedelics is deeply rooted in Jungian depth psychology, which emphasizes the importance of exploring the unconscious mind and confronting the shadow—the repressed or hidden aspects of ourselves. His chapter on The Underworld, for example, delves into the difficult but essential process of facing grief, trauma, and the soul’s descent into darkness. By likening this experience to ancient myths of descent and return, Yugler helps readers contextualize the sometimes terrifying or painful aspects of psychedelic healing as part of a larger, universal process of transformation and rebirth.
What sets Psychedelics and the Soul apart from other works in the emerging field of psychedelic literature is its emphasis on the collective dimensions of healing. In chapters like The Tree of Life, Yugler addresses how psychedelics can foster a deeper connection with the Earth and raise awareness of global challenges like climate change. This chapter is particularly relevant in today’s context, as it explores how psychedelic experiences can reawaken our animistic instincts—our recognition that the Earth is alive and ensouled, and that our healing is intimately tied to the healing of the planet. This connection to the Earth feels vital and urgent, providing a fresh perspective on the role psychedelics can play in environmental and social activism.
Throughout the book, Yugler skillfully weaves together mythological storytelling, psychological insights, and practical tools for integration. His background as a psychedelic therapist shines through in his emphasis on the importance of integration, particularly in the final chapter, The Journey Home. Here, he focuses on the crucial process of making sense of psychedelic experiences after the journey, a stage that is often overlooked. By drawing on Indigenous wisdom traditions that emphasize community and ritual, Yugler reminds readers that the journey doesn’t end when the psychedelic effects wear off—it continues through the work of weaving the insights gained back into everyday life, relationships, and the broader community.
Another strength of this book is its accessibility. While Yugler draws from complex psychological and mythological concepts, his writing remains approachable, offering tangible tools and reflective exercises that readers can engage with. This makes the book not only intellectually stimulating but also highly practical for those looking to deepen their own healing journeys or support others in doing so.
In conclusion, Psychedelics and the Soul is an essential read for anyone interested in the transformative potential of psychedelics, especially those who seek to go beyond the personal and explore the larger mythic and collective dimensions of healing. Simon Yugler’s integration of depth psychology, mythology, and Indigenous wisdom provides a holistic framework for understanding the psychedelic experience as a path to soul healing and planetary regeneration. At a time when the world is facing unprecedented challenges, Yugler’s vision of psychedelic medicine as a tool for both personal and collective awakening feels not only relevant but deeply necessary.
August 5, 2025
Waaaay to long for me. I did listen to it all, but out of the 16 hours of audio there often seemed to be fairy-tales and myths 1 hour long. The author himself seems like a very ethical person and a nice role model, also gives a good overview of many ways a guru/shaman could misuse their powers etc (and describes their possible dark sides to be aware of). And of course a lot of tips about the mushroom trips. First book for me on that field, although for a long time I have have had a friend with that experience, I will probably stay away for at least some years more :D Something to do when I’m older :) For I am happy with my life and don’t need something added. Yet?
Some random notes:
* A guru should never talk away some thoughts/foundations from a person without adding something to replace them. Also no real healing can ever be done through inflicting pain on purpose - this is dark energy caused by the past drama of the guru himself.
* Before trips, cleanse. No alcohol, no read meat for days. Easy food. And purging while the trips is totally okay.
* The author does not recommend to work on your shadow self - don’t scrub where it is not itching. It’s darker there than people say in popular culture.
* “The cure to the pain is in the pain”
* “Guru complex” - when someone thinks he knows what is best for you.
* For the teachings to stick, you must have some skin in the game
Some random notes:
* A guru should never talk away some thoughts/foundations from a person without adding something to replace them. Also no real healing can ever be done through inflicting pain on purpose - this is dark energy caused by the past drama of the guru himself.
* Before trips, cleanse. No alcohol, no read meat for days. Easy food. And purging while the trips is totally okay.
* The author does not recommend to work on your shadow self - don’t scrub where it is not itching. It’s darker there than people say in popular culture.
* “The cure to the pain is in the pain”
* “Guru complex” - when someone thinks he knows what is best for you.
* For the teachings to stick, you must have some skin in the game
December 2, 2025
I am so glad I purchased this book, because it is one of those I’ll return to over time as I deepen my experience and my relationship with the plant medicine.
Apart from being such an interesting book (I learned so much about the mythology and archetypes behind psychedelics- something that awoke another layer of curiosity in me), it is also a very important and timely book. The psychedelic renaissance in the west carries with it a lot of promise, but also an equal amount of concern. How do we relate to these medicines, who should and should not administer them, what is our role in cultural appropriation and perpetuating colonial mindset of extraction and exploitation? These are uncomfortable but important questions. The harm and psychological and cultural damage that can be done through the misuse and misunderstanding of these plants is enormous. The author rightfully points out that these medicines can affect the deep human psyche, not just the brain. Another cautionary tale is the sexual abuse and all sorts of exploitation done by neo-shamans, egotistical maniacs proclaiming to be gurus, immature children running around with nuclear weapons. For these and many reasons, I’d recommend this book to every psychonaut, psychedelic therapist, and facilitator holding space for travelers trying to find their way home.
Apart from being such an interesting book (I learned so much about the mythology and archetypes behind psychedelics- something that awoke another layer of curiosity in me), it is also a very important and timely book. The psychedelic renaissance in the west carries with it a lot of promise, but also an equal amount of concern. How do we relate to these medicines, who should and should not administer them, what is our role in cultural appropriation and perpetuating colonial mindset of extraction and exploitation? These are uncomfortable but important questions. The harm and psychological and cultural damage that can be done through the misuse and misunderstanding of these plants is enormous. The author rightfully points out that these medicines can affect the deep human psyche, not just the brain. Another cautionary tale is the sexual abuse and all sorts of exploitation done by neo-shamans, egotistical maniacs proclaiming to be gurus, immature children running around with nuclear weapons. For these and many reasons, I’d recommend this book to every psychonaut, psychedelic therapist, and facilitator holding space for travelers trying to find their way home.
August 11, 2025
In the growing bibliography on psychedelics and indigenous medicine, this book stands out for several reasons.
First, its approach is grounded in depth psychology — in my experience, the most effective Western school of psychology for making sense of the processes triggered in the psyche of those who dare to walk a spiritual path.
Second, it maintains a compassionate and humble stance toward the sublime and numinous, yet also toward the sometimes chaotic, raw, and unsettling world of experiences these medicines can evoke. At the heart of any profound and positive change is love, but the road often winds through a dense forest, and not everything there is pleasant or clean. The only way to endure such a journey — and to support those who find themselves in these spaces — is through compassion.
Third, no truly deep and complete book on these topics can be written without giving space to the ancestral knowledge we are fortunate to still hear in the voices of its heirs — whether shaman, mystic, monk, or otherwise. Their wisdom is a key that can unlock not only the full potential of personal transformation, but also the possibility of cultural healing.
Simon Yugler’s book is a must-read for any sincere traveler in the liminal worlds of consciousness expansion.
First, its approach is grounded in depth psychology — in my experience, the most effective Western school of psychology for making sense of the processes triggered in the psyche of those who dare to walk a spiritual path.
Second, it maintains a compassionate and humble stance toward the sublime and numinous, yet also toward the sometimes chaotic, raw, and unsettling world of experiences these medicines can evoke. At the heart of any profound and positive change is love, but the road often winds through a dense forest, and not everything there is pleasant or clean. The only way to endure such a journey — and to support those who find themselves in these spaces — is through compassion.
Third, no truly deep and complete book on these topics can be written without giving space to the ancestral knowledge we are fortunate to still hear in the voices of its heirs — whether shaman, mystic, monk, or otherwise. Their wisdom is a key that can unlock not only the full potential of personal transformation, but also the possibility of cultural healing.
Simon Yugler’s book is a must-read for any sincere traveler in the liminal worlds of consciousness expansion.
November 25, 2024
This book offers a truly unique insight into the world of psychedelic healing. I love how seamlessly the mythology and psychological are woven together.
The choice of myths was also very interesting and insightful. Quite a few I hadn't heard before which was nice. And the analysis was very informative but not overwhelming. The same was true for the psychological.
There were also so interesting case studies of people with different backgrounds and personalities. Which really helped highlight the pros and cons as it were.
While this book is obviously written from a pro psychedelic treatment point of view, it doesn't ignore the negative side. At various places these arguments are addressed. Which was also interesting. Definitely one to go and mull over and quite likely come back to in future. And that's not something I do very often.
The choice of myths was also very interesting and insightful. Quite a few I hadn't heard before which was nice. And the analysis was very informative but not overwhelming. The same was true for the psychological.
There were also so interesting case studies of people with different backgrounds and personalities. Which really helped highlight the pros and cons as it were.
While this book is obviously written from a pro psychedelic treatment point of view, it doesn't ignore the negative side. At various places these arguments are addressed. Which was also interesting. Definitely one to go and mull over and quite likely come back to in future. And that's not something I do very often.
November 11, 2024
As psychedelic experiences often transcend language, writing about them is a daunting task. Simon does a masterful job exploring this world, with all of it's nuances and paradoxes. This book is an amazing resource for the psychedelic naive and curious reader as well as the most seasoned psychonaut. Simon is such a poetic storyteller...weaving myth, history, science, culture and spirit is such an engaging way. There is so much wisdom in these pages, it is an essential addition to any psychedelic library!
October 31, 2024
Wow! I was a fan of the mythic archetypes and the exploration of psychedelics from a more poetic perspective. The wisdom of weaving practical guidance with the philosophical journey was a great take for this book.
This would be great for any psychologist or counselor who is looking into offering psychedelic assisted therapy, but it could also be a great exploration for someone considering psychedelic assisted therapies.
This would be great for any psychologist or counselor who is looking into offering psychedelic assisted therapy, but it could also be a great exploration for someone considering psychedelic assisted therapies.
January 22, 2025
Great book. Very interesting combination of mythology, Jungian psychology and psychedelics. I suggest reading this along with several other current works on psychedelics that are exploring the effects of the psychedelic Renaissance on people and the planet. Fascinating and good read.
November 1, 2025
Cannot recommend highly enough
Highly recommended read before you embark on your next heroic dose or to help navigate your return. Full of inspirational insights and practical tips on integrating what lies in the shadow of today’s hyper-individualistic existence.
Highly recommended read before you embark on your next heroic dose or to help navigate your return. Full of inspirational insights and practical tips on integrating what lies in the shadow of today’s hyper-individualistic existence.
February 21, 2025
I enjoyed the storytelling, and I appreciated the way you incorporated mythology into it.
March 27, 2025
So into mythology right now!
February 14, 2025
A rare book that sheds light on the mysterious layers behind psychedelic healing. If you are interested in what’s beneath the science where psychedelics inevitably become weird…read this.
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