Your Extraordinary Mind: Psychedelics in the 21st Century and How to Use Them

by Zach Leary

A dynamic deep dive into the revolutionary, mystical, and sometimes unpredictable world of psychedelics by Zach Leary, longtime psychedelic advocate and cultural figure

More than 30 million people in the United States have used psychedelics― and the number is rapidly rising as practices like psychedelic-assisted therapy grow in popularity and an increasing number of places legalize or decriminalize these substances. But even as interest skyrockets, most people have little idea how to use psychedelics safely, let alone integrate these profound experiences into their everyday lives. In Your Extraordinary Mind, psychedelic researcher and advocate Zach Leary offers a necessary overview of psychedelics today― particularly LSD, psilocybin, MDMA, and ayahuasca― including what they are, how to use them safely, and crucially, how to integrate mind- and spirit-altering experiences into the rest of our lives.

Leary, the son of psychedelic pioneer Timothy Leary, has a unique perspective on not only where psychedelics have been but also where they’re going. He offers context on both the cultural history and present interest, while acknowledging and honoring the Indigenous roots of many of these traditions. The book

Instructions for intention, use, and integration
How psychedelics can support trauma healing
An overview of the current legal landscape and future questions
How psychedelics can support addiction recovery
How to work with psychedelics for spiritual growth

Leary writes, “Some say the psychedelic experience is too vast and unconventional to be reduced into language that can affect its daily relationship with consciousness. I subscribe to the idea that the psychedelic experience can be weaved into one’s heart, soul, healing, and thus, daily living practice. I believe we can distill the mind-blowing, previously indescribable psychedelic experience into a focused spiritual method that can help people in their daily lives.” The book offers wisdom that is both practical and profound.

Genres: Nonfiction, Health

248 pages, Paperback

Published April 29, 2025

Reviews

[annie cusack · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fantastic and educational read about the history, politics, and use of psychedelic substances, including for therapeutic purposes. This would be a great book for those interested in pursuing psychedelic use, either recreationally or therapeutically.

Thank you to Netgalley, Sounds True, and Zach Leary for a free ARC of this book.

[Ruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Informative book about the modern use of psychedelics in healing from trauma and other emotional issues. Included is the history of the psychedeliic movement, the War On Drugs from the Reagan era, and the recent acceptance of psychedelics as agents of change.

[Celia Romero · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book it was amazing , it was as game changer it made me realize things I wasn’t aware of due to misinformation of people . But luckily it broke down and explained details step by step through out the book . I enjoyed it so much

[Laurie AH · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent content. Clear and helpful guidance. Good historical perspective, although he might be overly generous regarding his father’s influence and intentions.
Audiobook: narration is wooden but clear.
This is a great resource for people considering the use of psychedelics.