A Synchronicity of Souls: Exploring Realms of the Inner Child

Name: Amber Burch

Occupation: Art Director & Community Builder

What inspired your psychedelic journey? It was a silent intention to be present and connect deeply with each other.

Did you journey with a guide, facilitator, sitter, friends, or solo? Friends and a trip sitter.

What steps did you take to prepare your set and setting for your journey? Time in nature.

Can you describe any transformative or meaningful experiences you had?

It’s hard to believe it’s been almost five years since that unforgettable day, yet the memory feels as vivid as the colours swirling in my mind. We were four friends, bound together by a deep connection, embarking on a synchronized trip that felt like a dance of our very souls. Each of us embodied archetypes that resonated with our essence: the Comedian, whose laughter lit up the room; the Professor, a sage dripping with knowledge; the Inner Child, bubbling with curiosity; and the Sage, the grounded presence guiding us through the labyrinth of our inner worlds.

Gathered in my cosy sanctuary as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, we settled in with a palpable sense of excitement. Outside, the world faded to a distant hum as we created our safe haven. Our shared intention was clear, a silent promise to be present for one another. As we began to dive deeper into our experience, the flickering flame of a candle we named iKou became our maternal guide. With each flicker, it felt as if she was watching over us, illuminating our thoughts and feelings with tender bursts of smoke that danced in the air like whispered secrets.

From the outset, our laughter flowed freely, an explosive release of joy that echoed through the space. I can’t remember the last time I laughed so much. It came in waves, a release of pent-up energy, accompanied by the occasional purging of phlegm and tears. The experience felt incredibly cleansing, as if we were shedding layers of ourselves. And in the midst of this shared hilarity, I discovered a sense of safety that enveloped me like a warm blanket. With these incredible women by my side, anything felt possible—nothing was judged. It was an atmosphere of pure vulnerability, incredibly beautiful in its openness.

As the trip deepened, a channel called Shivelight drew us in like moths to a flame. The screen remained still, yet within it, entire worlds unfolded. Each frame bloomed with enchanting colours and intricate patterns, pulling us deeper into the tapestry of our shared experience. We surrendered to the magic of the moment, marveling at how the simplest details could spark wonder.

One moment stood out as deeply profound—a ritual where we gathered our hands in a circle, forming a constellation of friendship and trust. It felt sacred. As we looked down, we witnessed our hands transforming before our eyes. They aged, revealing fine lines and wrinkles, before shifting back to soft, baby-like skin when brought closer to our faces. When my hand got stuck in that delicate form, it symbolised so much—innocence, renewal, and the intimate bond we all shared. In that moment, it felt as if our trip was crafting a talisman, a promise that we would be there for each other, always.

Amidst the heightened awareness, life’s absurdity danced before us, especially when we turned our attention to a roll of toilet paper that had suddenly become a revered object. We lifted it high, marveling at the softness as they fluttered in the gentle breeze from the window. In that simple act, we found endless amusement, erupting into laughter. One of our friends, who was sitting the trip, couldn’t help but giggle at our absurdity, retreating to bed as the sheer ridiculousness of it all overwhelmed her. I felt deep appreciation for her presence, knowing she was there to gently hold space for us, giving us the freedom to explore.

This is the wondrous alchemy of a psychedelic journey—judgments dissolve, boundaries fade, and the world appears anew. We learned to celebrate the beauty in the mundane, finding joy in the simplest of moments. Toilet paper transformed into a symbol of life’s fragility, each tear a reminder of the laughter and reverence we shared. It underlined the freedom we felt—nothing was off-limits, and everything was infused with magic.

As night gave way to dawn, the golden light of sunrise began to spill into our sanctuary. It was a moment of pure magic and connection. Together, we decided to watch Peter Rabbit, a whimsical ending to our trip that perfectly tied together our experiences of releasing our inner children. As we laughed at the antics of those mischievous little bunnies, I felt our innocence return, a beautiful reminder of joy and playfulness, illuminating the space we had created together.

Reflecting on that day, I carry the warmth of the experience with me. It was a sacred moment that highlighted the depth of our friendships and the beauty of shared exploration. While we have yet to plan another trip together, the spirit of that day continues to inspire and draw us closer. The memory flashes like a beacon, inviting us to venture into the unknown once more, reminding us of the magic we created together.

As we continue forward in our lives, the lessons we learned resonate deeply within me. I cherish the reminder to approach such experiences with mindfulness—to take it slow, ease into the journey, and honour one another’s boundaries. Together, we weave our lives into a rich narrative filled with laughter, love, and truth—a testament to the profound beauty of friendship and the journeys we embark on together.

What challenges did you face during or after your experience?

During the trip, navigating the shift from laughter and joy to intense introspection posed a challenge. As we immersed ourselves in our inner worlds, there were moments of vulnerability that brought feelings of sadness and uncertainty to the surface. After the experience, integrating these emotions was also a challenge, as I worked to comprehend the depth of what we had shared and witnessed together.

How has this experience impacted your life?

This experience profoundly shifted my perspective on life and relationships. I noticed a greater openness within myself, leading to deeper connections with friends and loved ones. The trip helped me embrace my inner child, unlocking a newfound joy and playfulness that I had previously set aside. Spiritually, it deepened my understanding of interconnectedness, fostering a sense of gratitude for the bonds I share with others.

What practices helped you integrate your experience?

Several practices have been instrumental in integrating this experience. Journaling allowed me to process my thoughts and feelings, reflecting on the insights gained during the trip. Meditation became a grounding practice, helping me find stillness and clarity amidst the emotional waves. Additionally, engaging with my community—sharing the experience and listening to others—provided valuable support and perspective, reinforcing the lessons learned.

If you could give advice to someone considering a similar journey, what would it be?

I would advise anyone considering a similar journey to approach it with intention and mindfulness. Preparing your environment, surrounding yourself with supportive and like-minded friends, and establishing a safe space are crucial. Embrace the experience, knowing that it may bring both joy and challenging emotions. Stay open to whatever arises, and allow yourself to be vulnerable. After the experience, take time for integration—practice journaling, meditation, or discussing your experience with trusted friends or a therapist.