A Path with Psychedelics: A Journal of Journeys

by Chris Becker

How did we get here and where are we going? How do we heal our wounds, grow and mature as human beings? Good questions! We weren’t born with a road map, so we have to figure this out ourselves—if we are up to the challenge. It does help to have a friend who is a few steps ahead on the path to guide us when needed. Chris writes about his own astonishing journey of psychic healing and spiritual exploration with the aid of mind changing medicines. Although this is the story of his personal path, it is a useful example of the universal human journey; entertaining, encouraging and enlightening.

Genres: Memoir

216 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 31, 2024

Reviews

[Ivan M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Psychedelics is an interesting topic, personally speaking. There are many books out there both encouraging and disproving the use of these substances, and I've to admit that I agree mostly with Becker's claim. Personally, it was a journey of self-discovery that took me through a rollercoaster of emotions and I feel that I grew and realized key aspects of my personality on the way. Some of those experiences I'll never forget, but I do recognize that if misused they can do exactly the opposite, that's why it is important to stay informed and proceed with caution.

Becker shares his experience, documenting each journey separately and analyzing it from many angles. This gives the reader a clear perspective of each drug, its possible effects, and how to keep it safe and productive. The author focuses his effort on the healing process and the benefits of the psyche and shares his path rather than targeting the recreational experience.

Overall, it was a productive read. The book vindicates drugs, explaining that they are tools to be used without shame, rather than weapons of mass destruction, like the conservative side tries to establish as reality. The fact that the author holds a Ph.D in Chemistry gives me confidence in his results, even though it's not a scientific book, the truth is that there are not many professional studies regarding drugs because they are considered illegal.

I recommend this book for people who are suffering and traditional medicine has failed them. Becker details his life and his mental process before and after consuming psychedelics. The book also contains beautiful poems that can be interpreted in many ways, giving it a warm, kind feeling. Thank you Mr. Becker for a fantastic and immersive piece of work.

[Gianfranco · Rating 5 out of 5]

I literally felt like a friend

The closeness that the author has with you as a reader, makes you feel trapped in this story almost immediately and that is where the process of recognition begins.
The book helps us to understand that our pains will not go away by themselves and yes, with time some of them may get lighter or feel much less deep, but it is like throwing straw into a hole in the sand, when you least expect it, the wound will open up again just as you left it. That is why the book, through Chris' experience, gives us important reflections on how we should face our wounds, approaching them without fear and with the conviction that we will truly seal them. The book is very motivating, from the beginning you feel confident, the serenity and simplicity of the narrative makes everything flow and when you realize it, you are like in another scenario, conducive to find yourself.

[Mariah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a truly fascinating and enlightening journey into the world of psychedelics. Becker’s blend of scientific research and personal anecdotes made the book both informative and relatable. His insights into the psychological and spiritual dimensions of psychedelics opened my eyes to their potential for personal growth and healing. I appreciated how he balanced the discussion, neither overly glorifying nor condemning the medicines and substances, but rather presenting them as tools that require careful consideration and respect. This book has given me a deeper understanding of the transformative potential of psychedelics and has made me more thoughtful about their use. I highly recommend this book for its honest, compassionate, and insightful approach to a complex and often misunderstood topic.

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Books about psychedelics are not my typical go-to; however, there was something about this book that caught my eye. I'm sure we all are in search of the meaning of our life and how we may grow, and psychedelics have been known to light up a little spark in curiosity. I found it very interesting how it showed a foundation on ancestral traditions and still sharing personal stories that relate to it. It is certainly unique and a shared level of intimacy that I admire. I believe it takes a level of understanding and respect to be able to explore this subject in a way that is safe yet meaningful, and I think this book did a great job on that. I know everybody's personal journey is unique, but I found the stories shared in this book still somehow universally relatable.

This is honestly a must-read for anybody curious, like me, about the nuance of psychedelic healing.

[Rodrigo J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very interesting

In my opinion, what we can conclude from this book is that the use of psychedelics, when approached with the necessary respect and awareness, can become a valuable tool for exploring self-knowledge, personal growth, and even pushing the limits of ordinary perception and understanding. However, the author emphasizes the importance of proper physical and mental preparation to achieve positive and transformative effects.

I also think it is crucial to highlight what the author says about the need for a responsible and mindful approach when using these substances. It is important to recognize their potential, but even more so to be aware of the risks involved.

We should not forget that the real benefits of such powerful tools as psychedelics can only be achieved when they are used wisely and with a deep sense of respect for oneself and others.

[Maria Paula Castellanos Monroy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommended!

Chris's personal journey in search of healing on a psychic level, trying to find himself through spiritual exploration supported by alternative medicines such as psychedelics leaves us with endless reflections and messages for life.

All of us at some point in life have gone through existentialist periods or so-called “crises” we usually hear of mid-life crisis, mid-life crisis etc... but it is nothing different from a period of deep existentialism, and if I am honest I think it is absolutely necessary that we all experience it in order to ask ourselves deep questions that allow us to know ourselves more and more and get to our center.

This is a book to accompany you in an existential crisis, to understand that it happens to all of us and to allow Cris' experience to guide you! Highly recommended!

[Steven Finkelstein · Rating 5 out of 5]

You may have heard that psychedelics, if used properly, can open the doors of perception. Some believe that they can even heal you if your spirit is broken or if you’re weary of the many trials and tribulations that the world might put you through. They can indeed do these things, but only if you use them correctly.

The author of this book has tried some of the most talked about psychedelics in the known world, and now, he is ready to speak about his experiences. He explains what worked and didn’t work for him, what he discovered when he started down this path, and also what substances might be helpful for which particular situations. If you are considering using psychedelics for natural healing or homeopathic purposes, this should be required reading for you.

[Almiria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve never personally used or considered psychedelics, so this book brought me a very interesting new perspective. The author opens up about their own very interesting personal and spiritual journey using psychedelics. As a part-memoir and part-guidebook, the author combines his own experiences with scientific research and guidance for others who would like to try this journey. I liked the practical tips that the book contains for those who are interested in experimenting with something similar. Even if this isn’t the right path for everyone, the book brings interesting insights and a unique perspective to the table. I recommend this book to readers interested in spiritual journeys and personal development from an unconventional perspective.

[Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first pages of the book, I found myself reflecting on big questions that I have asked myself at some moments in life, and the question that was most on my mind has always been: How can we heal our wounds and evolve as human beings? And I can say that this book brought me much closer to the answer. What I liked most about the book is reading Becker's personal journey, his own spiritual exploration, and the tools that have led to his own healing. Personally, I connect with many of these real-life stories, there are even moments of reading that I felt identified with the experiences recounted. I found the book a testimony of how our own experiences can serve to unlock parts of ourselves. Recommended book.

[Isamar Diaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

takes readers on a profound journey through the emerging world of psychedelic therapy. The author blends personal stories, scientific research, and cultural analysis to explore how psychedelics can be a transformative tool for personal growth, mental health, and spirituality. It provides an open-minded, thoughtful exploration of the topic, making it approachable for newcomers and intriguing for those already familiar with the subject. While some sections may delve too deeply into specific anecdotes, the overall message of exploring consciousness in safe, guided environments is powerful and thought-provoking.

[JaeLynn A · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a personal and enlightening exploration of psychedelics as a tool for different reasons. It is a book that is part memoir and part guidebook. I appreciated how honest the author was when writing this book. He discusses important aspects when setting out on a psychedelic journey. Some of those aspects are set, setting, intention, and preparation. I also appreciated how the author touched on risks and challenges that could arise. The book has both scientific resources and historical context throughout it. The way the author writes in an open-hearted manner is perfect for readers who are new to the world of psychedelics and people who have been doing it for a while.

[Yolanda Gomez · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been interested for several years in this type of alternative treatments to cure mental illnesses that are so present today in our society, but in this book I managed to understand a little more in depth this therapy with a real life story. It is very interesting to see how the world is transforming as a function of humanity and how these medications can change your life and help you get out of all psychiatric illnesses that seem incurable. The approach of this reading is spectacular because you get to see everything applicable in the life of the author and you get to understand many things and see in him reflected your needs.

[S Tyty · Rating 5 out of 5]

This enlightening narrative on spiritual growth is one which should be enjoyed by every adult reader out there.
The author speaks to us through his own personal journey of psychic healing and spiritual exploration, what makes his words powerful tools which can guide others’ own personal paths as well.
Half memoir, half guide, this book is well-written, thought-provoking, and easy to follow. Brecker speaks to us as if he was our close friend, thus providing us with plenty of information in a friendly writing style. Besides, the book is not long, and this makes it a fast-paced volume to end in just a couple of nights. Loved this beautiful guide!

[Mariana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Today, the topic of mental health is very well known and it is finally being given the relevance it deserved from the beginning, we see more people normalizing going to the psychologist and above all understanding that we all have things to work on to avoid reaching a serious mental illness. In this book, more than a message in itself, I found a guide from the hand of a person who already lived it and who is making sure to accompany many people on this path of change and to find himself. His story is very interesting and it is really incredible to see how the medications helped him to heal and to find the spiritual path he needed.

[Luci L · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bold and inspiring read.

The author's journey of psychic healing and spiritual exploration is both fascinating and inspiring. His candid storytelling, combined with the transformative use of mind-altering medicines, offers readers a unique perspective on personal growth and healing. While deeply personal, the book serves as a relatable and enlightening guide for anyone on their own path to self-discovery and maturity. I was moved and touched by the book's courageous take on psychedelics, it's definitely a must-read.

[Sachi Ito · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing journey

Although this book describes the author’s amazing journey with psychedelics, it really let’s us all know our true potential. I enjoyed reading about the MDMA journey and how the intentions were sick first before the experience began. I think this is so important to spiritual growth. I no longer shy away from growing mentally or spiritually through the use of psychedelics. The knowledge that I got from this book has made me feel comfortable with exploring different ways of communicating with my guides.

[Daniel Moreno · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this book and the value it has. It is a book that has a scientific approach, but it is also focused on the great anecdotes that our author has, and this makes the plot and the reading itself full of value. How the author involves us in the psychedelic, without leaving aside spirituality, seemed to me to be something unique about this great book. Without a doubt, the best book I have read with this type of plot. This is really a book that I highly recommend for everyone who wants to have a trip through the psychedelic and also learn while reading it page by page.

[Alexandra Rodriguez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Psychedelics have such a bad reputation, but the author brings a different perspective to the table with this book. Their journey with psychedelics is eye-opening and enlightening. They discuss the spiritual side and psychological side of psychedelics with a lot of scientific research and person anecdotes. Even if you don’t like psychedelics, this book offers incredible insight to how they can be used for different reasons. It was an incredible book!

[Eden · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book offers a profound exploration of self-discovery and healing through the author’s personal experiences. His insights on mind-changing medicines and spiritual exploration serve as a guide for those seeking answers to life’s big questions. It feels like a conversation with a wise friend, providing encouragement and insight, making it an invaluable resource for anyone on their spiritual journey. Highly recommend!

[Veronica Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like the cover of this book, I felt like I was floating up in the clouds. Speaking from his own experience with psychedelics made me get that I'm reading from another side of the story. The journeys that I have read made me feel I was on these journeys myself. It is not a typical book about psychedelics, the history of psychedelics, the science of psychedelics and its side effects at all.

[Valery · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is certainly an interesting read as it chronicles as in a journal , healing experiences using non traditional methods. I enjoyed learning more about the processes and what the experiences opened up and offered. There is a emphasis on care and safety while examining loss, childhood pain and trauma, and suffering. This is an eye opening book and is recommended.

[Jake Hallstrom · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a new experience for me. I have zero experience with any sort of psychedelics or anything related to it either. The author presented this in the format of a journal, and that made the story deeply personal. It allowed the reader to be eased into the journey itself and created a welcoming environment for someone like me who has no experience with this in any capacity.

[Tara Dodson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nothing is as real, as life!

This book was so captivating. As the author told of different issues that brought about healing through his journey with psychedelics. Some parts really left me in awe, knowing this could be my life, or anyone around me. I think psychedelics is a true form of inner work and therapy.

[Lina Perea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Learning something different

This book definitely changed my somewhat biased concept of psychedelics.
As the reading progresses, it catches the reader's attention and it is admirable the impartial way in which the author talks about the subject, not only about the positive, but also about the negative, allowing the reader to know the consequences in case they want to use them.
The knowledge and handling of the subject is evident. I like the way he shares his personal experiences, making it clear that he has lived what he shares, without leaving aside the scientific knowledge which is very important for a sensitive subject.
You go hand in hand with the author, where he takes you through different paths, where he explains the different uses of psychedelics, such as the psychological and spiritual.

[Mayra Guayara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book

This book changed my life! In the last years of my life I had an unfortunate loss of a family member and since that day my life has never been the same. When I started reading this book I honestly thought it was a common self-help read but as I read through the pages, I realized that this may be one of the ways out of depression. The book talks about the exploration of mind altering substances as a tool for our spiritual growth. What I liked the most is that although the book is a personal account of the author, it gives us examples on how to embark on the process of transformation and defy convictions in order to achieve a fuller and more conscious life. Let me tell you that since I started applying the wisdom of this book, my life has changed radically.

[Chico's Mom · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is interesting how the author has shared his experience with psychedelics as he takes us into his process, which includes the setting, his intentions, and the whole journey of when he used them. Even adding comments on these experiences is quite interesting. The group Ayahuasca experience was intriguing. I wonder if it does work; I have heard about those and seen some videos. Mostly, they were done in the jungles of South America or Central America, but in California, that was interesting, too. I would have loved to see a visual representation of what they see and go through cause it sounds like a challenging experience, especially for the stomach. I loved the pictures. I think those are pictures of where he was during the journey.