Set & Setting

Where you are. How you feel. What surrounds you.

The phrase “set and setting” is one of the most essential—and often repeated—principles in psychedelic work. And for good reason: your mindset (set) and your environment (setting) shape every aspect of your journey.

Whether you're microdosing, doing a solo deep dive, or participating in a guided ceremony, your set and setting create the container for healing, exploration, and transformation.

Why Set & Setting Are the Foundation of a Good Trip

You’re not just taking something—you’re entering a relationship: with yourself, your space, and often something greater.

Your mindset frames how you receive and process what arises.
Your setting mirrors your inner world and influences how safe, grounded, and connected you feel.

Together, they:

• Create a sense of safety and trust

• Reduce chances of overwhelm or distress

• Enhance openness, presence, and surrender

• Support emotional and spiritual integration

In short: Set and setting don’t just influence the trip—they are the trip.

What Is Set?

Your set is your mindset—your inner state, beliefs, emotions, and intentions going into the experience. It includes:

• Emotional tone (calm, anxious, joyful, reflective, etc.)

• Intentions (healing, insight, clarity, connection)

• Expectations (which are best held lightly)

• Spiritual or psychological readiness

Preparing Your Set:

• Clarify your intention: Write it down, say it aloud, or hold it gently in your heart. Let it be an anchor.

• Reflect on your state of mind: If you're going through a crisis, illness, or extreme stress, consider rescheduling.

• Do a grounding practice: Try breathwork, meditation, journaling, or stretching before the journey.

• Let go of control: Trust the process. If fear arises, remind yourself: I am safe. This will pass. I'm supported.

What Is Setting?

Your setting is the physical and emotional environment where your journey takes place. It includes:

• The space (room, outdoors, ceremonial setup)

• The people around you

• Sensory elements: lighting, sound, scent, texture

• The energetic tone of the space

Preparing Your Setting:

• Choose a clean, calm, and private space

• Add soft lighting, cozy textures, and grounding elements

• Use music intentionally (ambient, instrumental, or ceremonial)

• Set up an altar or center point

• Let others know not to disturb you (or arrange for a trip sitter)

• Turn off notifications and minimize outside noise

Even small details—like a soft blanket or warm tea—can have a big impact when you’re in a heightened state.

A Brief History of Set & Setting in Psychedelic Therapy

The concept of “set and setting” was popularized by Dr. Timothy Leary in the 1960s and has been a core principle in psychedelic research ever since.

• Aldous Huxley referenced similar ideas in The Doors of Perception.

• In traditional Indigenous and ceremonial use, preparation of space and spirit has always been vital.

• Modern clinical trials now rigorously design environments (lighting, music, furniture, facilitator tone) to enhance therapeutic outcomes.

From ancient rites to clinical settings, the wisdom is clear: the how, where, and why deeply matter.

The Three Levels of Set & Setting

Choose the level that aligns with your journey’s depth, your comfort level, and your intentions. There's no one "right" way—just what serves you best.

Level 1: Couch Setup + Simple Altar

For gentle, grounded solo sessions

Ideal for:

• Microdosing

• Integration sessions

• First-time journeys

• Journaling or reflection

What to include:

• Couch, floor mat, or meditation cushion

• Small altar with meaningful items (see Altar page)

• Blanket, journal, water bottle

• Soft lighting or natural daylight

• Headphones or a Bluetooth speaker

• Eye mask optional

Sit in stillness for a few moments before you begin. Breathe deeply. Invite presence.

Level 2: Intentional Circle Setup

For group, partner, or deeper solo work

Ideal for:

• Guided sessions or partner journeys

• Small group ceremonies

• More intentional solo exploration

What to include:

• Circle of mats, cushions, or low chairs

• Central altar with candles or sacred objects

• Cacao, tea, or sound tools nearby

• Curtains or tapestries for warmth and containment

• Plants or artwork to soften the space

• Trip sitter or guide if needed

• A clear “threshold” or entry point

A circle creates a sacred container—supportive, safe, and connected.

Level 3: Outdoor or Ceremonial Space

For earth-based and ceremonial journeys

Ideal for:

• Experienced explorers

• Nature-based traditions

• Guided ceremonial sessions

What to include:

• Safe, private land you have permission to use

• Natural altar with stones, feathers, or candles

• Blankets or sheepskins for warmth and comfort

• Shelter or shaded area if needed

• Fire, canopy, or a symbolic center point

• Exit plan or landing zone for rest and integration

• Earth offerings or ritual tools

Safety first: Always have a sober sitter or guide. Respect land, wildlife, and Indigenous protocols.

Design Tips for Any Setting

• Remove visual and digital clutter

• Add soft textures: blankets, scarves, cushions

• Use ambient playlists (or nature sounds)

• Use scent if it helps: palo santo, essential oils, or incense

• Keep snacks, tissues, and water nearby

• Let others know not to interrupt

• Make the space feel special—this isn’t just another day

More Resources

Books
The Psychedelic Explorer’s Guide – James Fadiman
Your Psilocybin Companion – Michelle Janikian

Articles & Guides
MAPS.org – Safe journey preparation
DoubleBlind – Creating sacred containers
Chacruna Institute – Cultural considerations in space holding

Videos
YouTube: “Building a Sacred Journey Space at Home”
Michael Pollan’s How to Change Your Mind (Netflix – see guided therapy scenes)