Experience of Wellbeing and Spirituality in Ayahuasca Use

Abstract

Background: Spirituality is an important area of investigation in relation to health, the study of which is being requested by clients accessing services as well as large healthcare organisational bodies such as the NHS and the Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCPsych). Its relationship to health and wellbeing is regularly reported as significant yet is poorly understood. Intersecting with this, is the recent re-emergence of psychedelic research as an area for therapeutic use, with recent research suggesting clinical outcomes may be associated with spiritual or ‘mystical-type’ experiences. Ayahuasca practice provides a clear research focal point to investigate reported spiritual phenomena and wellbeing and how these may intersect. Aims: The aim of this research was to explore people’s experience of wellbeing and spirituality in Ayahuasca use using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Method: Semi-structured interviews of 7 UK-based individuals who have used Ayahuasca for both spiritual and wellbeing reasons, (self- reported), were conducted and transcripts analysed using Interpretive Phenomenology Analysis (IPA). Findings: Four main experiential themes were identified; 1) Connection, (direct, re-connection, and interconnection), 2) Wellbeing- functional applications 3) A relational Process, 4) ‘More than just Ayahuasca’ Implications: These finding contribute to the burgeoning field of psychedelic research and spiritual research as data suggests for some, psychedelic use is a spiritual phenomenon (not solely a pharmacological or psychological experience) and that aspects of self-reported spirituality have a significant role in individual wellbeing, lifestyle, and sense of meaning, which can be complicated to navigate, may change over time and may be associated with stigma. Key Search Terms: Spirituality, Ayahuasca, Psychedelics, Wellbeing