Microdosing for anxiety and stress: how does it work?
Microdosing is becoming more popular among people who want more calm, focus and resilience in a natural way. But what is microdosing exactly, can it really help with anxiety and stress, and how do you start with it responsibly? This article sets it out.
What is microdosing?
Microdosing means taking a very small, non-psychedelic amount of psilocybin, usually every few days. It does not make you trip: a microdose is roughly a tenth of an ordinary dose, too small to change your perception noticeably. The intention is precisely that it stays subtle, so that you can simply work, exercise and function.
Many people use it to think more clearly, to be more creative, or to feel more emotionally balanced. We work with psilocybin truffles, which are legally available in the Netherlands.
Can microdosing help with anxiety and stress?
More and more people find that microdosing helps them be less stuck in their heads, respond more calmly to stress and step out of spiralling thoughts more easily. The experience is often not that a problem disappears, but that you can look at it with a little more distance and gentleness.
Important: microdosing is not a medical treatment and not a replacement for regular care or medication. See it as possible support for your wellbeing, not as a miracle cure.
What does the research say?
Scientific research into microdosing is still in its early stages. The first studies show mixed results: some point to improvements in mood and focus, others find that part of the effect can also be explained by expectation, the placebo effect. At the same time, large numbers of users consistently report positive experiences.
In short: promising, but not firmly proven. A realistic, curious attitude suits this best.
How do you start microdosing?
A good start begins with knowledge: the right dose, a fixed schedule (many people follow a rhythm of one dose every three days, for example) and attention to your intention and your journal. That way you learn what a dose does to you, and you avoid taking too much or too often.
Our Microdosing Course (in Dutch) takes you through safe and effective microdosing step by step, with video explanations, a workbook and personal guidance. If you do not read Dutch and would like to start, get in touch and we will talk it through.
Is it safe and legal?
We work with psilocybin truffles, which are legally available in the Netherlands. The RIVM, the Dutch national institute for public health, describes psilocybin as non-addictive with a low risk profile. Are you on medication such as antidepressants, or do you have doubts about your health? Then always consult a professional first, because some medication can affect how it works.
Microdosing or a full ceremony?
Microdosing and a ceremony are two different things. Microdosing is subtle and aimed at daily life; a ceremony is a deep, one-off experience. Want to know what the latter looks like? Read Truffle ceremony in the Netherlands.
Frequently asked questions
Do I feel anything from a microdose? Usually something very subtle: a little more calm, focus or energy. If you feel a clear change in perception, the dose is too high.
Do you become dependent on it? The RIVM describes psilocybin as non-addictive. We do advise building in breaks rather than dosing daily.
Getting started
Would you like to start microdosing responsibly? Read more about our approach on the psilocybin ceremony page, or ask your question through the contact page.