Episode 97
How do psychedelics alter brain function to improve emotional regulation and unlock new patterns of thinking and behavior? Can they truly reshape the way we think, feel, and experience the world?
In this episode, Dr. Manesh Girn, a leading researcher in psychedelic neuroscience, unpacks the transformative effects of these substances on neuroplasticity and their potential for treating mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. The conversation dives into how psychedelics create profound changes in neural networks, enhance cognitive flexibility and promote long-lasting emotional and psychological growth.
Manesh and Michaela also discuss the critical importance of integration following a psychedelic experience, the growing body of research on microdosing, and how psychedelics can help individuals escape entrenched mental patterns. They touch on the challenges facing psychedelic research and the therapeutic potential of psychedelics beyond mental health, including creativity, innovation, meaning-making and flourishing.
Dr. Manesh Girn is a postdoctoral neuroscientist at UCSF and a dynamic educator in psychedelic science. Known for his brain imaging research on the psychedelic experience, he has been lead or co-author on over 20 scientific publications related to psychedelics, brain networks, and abstract cognitive processes. As the driving force behind ‘The Psychedelic Scientist’ on Instagram and YouTube, Manesh brings cutting-edge psychedelic research to the public in an engaging and accessible manner, distilling complex science in a digestible way.
Episode Highlights
Brain imaging studies on the effects of psilocybin, LSD, and DMT
Key brain regions impacted by psychedelics, including the transmodal association cortex
How psychedelics affect the brain’s models of self and world
Manesh’s first psychedelic experience at 17 years old
Neuroplasticity and how psychedelics promote new neural connections
The profound spiritual and physical effects of 5-MeO-DMT
Differences between the brain effects of 5-MeO-DMT and psilocybin
The microdosing debate: placebo effects vs. psychedelic-assisted change
Potential anti-inflammatory and neuroplastic effects of microdosing
How ketamine affects the brain differently from classic psychedelics
The importance of lifestyle changes in supporting neuroplasticity after psychedelic journeys
How psychedelics help reset the nervous system and process trauma
Combining Internal Family Systems (IFS), somatic therapy, and psychedelics for deep healing
Psychedelics’ potential for enhancing creativity and human flourishing
Concerns about the misuse and integration of psychedelics in Western systems
Psychedelics as potential tools for healing systemic and societal trauma
How changing cultural attitudes towards psychedelics are being driven by younger generations
Meditation, mindfulness, and psychedelics in personal growth
Dr. Manesh Girn’s Links
Website: www.maneshgirn.com
Instagram: @thepsychedelicscientist
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
Netflix Docuseries: (UN)WELL
Research Report: Mindfulness Meditation Enhances Positive Effects of Psilocybin
Non-profit Psychedelic Research Organization: Center for Minds
Dr. Manesh Girn’s Gift To You
Dr. Manesh’s FREE Psychedelics and Neuroplasticity PDF Cheat Sheet, describing 5 steps to rewire your brain with psychedelics
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Special thanks to Jeremy Colbert (Taragápe) for the original podcast theme music.
You can find out more about Jeremey’s work here:
taragape.com and @taragape