MICRODOSING + PARENTING
One of the most common questions we hear from our community is, “Can I microdose while taking care of my kids?” It’s an important question, especially for parents who are curious about integrating microdosing into their daily lives. Many have tried magic mushrooms in the past, perhaps having a profound experience on a “trip” (also known as a macrodose), and wonder whether microdosing will have a similar effect. Naturally, this concern stems from the desire to stay clear-headed and fully present when caring for children.
Let’s ease your concerns right off the bat:
Microdosing Doesn’t Impair You
There’s a significant difference between microdosing and macrodosing. While a macrodose can result in hallucinations and a more immersive experience—definitely not the kind of state you’d want to be in while caring for your kids—microdosing is different. It’s subtle. Many parents who microdose report feeling more patient, loving, empathetic, and present. Rather than detracting from their ability to care for their children, some even say it enhances their parenting abilities.
A macrodose typically involves more than one gram of magic mushrooms, leading to a deeper, sometimes intense, psychological journey. On the other hand, microdosing uses a very small amount of psilocybin—usually between 100 and 300 milligrams—which creates subtle changes without causing any kind of impairment. Most people describe the effects of microdosing as, “I felt like myself, but on a really good day.”
You’ll likely feel more in tune with your emotions, experience a greater sense of connection with those around you, and notice a slight “glow” to your day. But make no mistake, microdosing should be approached with intention and respect for the substance. It’s not something to be done on a whim. We highly recommend pairing it with mindfulness practices like journaling, meditation, or gentle movement to stay grounded.
What Exactly Is Microdosing?
In simple terms, microdosing is the act of regularly consuming very small, sub-hallucinogenic doses of psychedelics, such as psilocybin, to improve your mental and emotional well-being. Studies show that long-term microdosing can lead to a host of benefits, including improved mood, increased energy, heightened creativity, and even healthier lifestyle choices. From reduced stress and anxiety to enhanced focus, the positive effects of microdosing are vast. Learn more about how microdosing works on our website.
Microdosing can be broken down into three key elements:
- Low-dose use of psychedelics
- A regular dosing schedule
- An intention to enhance well-being and cognitive/emotional processes
The goal is not to reach a state of intoxication but to create small, sustainable improvements to your daily life. Many people, including parents, report feeling sharper focus, improved clarity, and a gentler stress response. There’s even evidence suggesting microdosing may alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain.
Psilocybin is not addictive and doesn’t lead to withdrawal symptoms, so you can follow a microdosing protocol for as long as it suits your needs. For some, this may be several months, while others might find a shorter period sufficient. You may even feel an intuitive pull to take a break, which is a good opportunity to reset your tolerance and observe how psilocybin is integrating into your life.
Finding Your Ideal Microdose
One of the first things we recommend is starting with a small dose—around 125 mg—on a day when you have few commitments. Sunday mornings can be a great time to try your first microdose since it offers a calm environment to notice the effects. You’ll want to be in a space where you feel safe and comfortable as you explore how psilocybin works for you.
It’s important to note that your ideal dose might vary depending on factors like your diet, stress levels, sleep, and physical activity. If you find that 125 mg is too mild, you can safely increase to 250 mg next time. On the other hand, if the initial dose feels strong, try microdosing after a meal to soften the effects.
Microdosing is generally most effective when taken in the morning, setting a positive tone for the day. However, some people prefer to take it before bed for enhanced relaxation and a rejuvenating sleep. Explore our different microdosing products to find what works for you.
How Long Do the Effects Last?
Typically, you’ll begin to feel the effects of a microdose about one hour after consumption, and they may last anywhere from four to six hours. The effects are gentle but noticeable, and many people report an enjoyable afterglow the next day. It’s this afterglow that some find even more enjoyable than the microdose itself.
To avoid building a tolerance, microdosing isn’t something you do every day. We recommend following a protocol like Dr. James Fadiman’s 1 day on, 2 days off or Paul Stamets’ 5 days on, 2 days off. Both schedules allow your body to reset and avoid tolerance, which could diminish the effects of microdosing over time. Find a schedule that suits your lifestyle and needs—just make sure you take at least two days off per week.
Microdosing and Parenting: Can It Help?
Many parents find that microdosing can actually enhance their parenting. The subtle nature of a microdose means you can still engage in regular daily activities like driving your kids to school, playing with them, or managing work meetings. Some even find that microdosing helps them stay more present, calm, and patient—traits that are invaluable when parenting.
For parents dealing with conditions like depression, microdosing can offer an additional layer of support. Research is continually emerging about the potential mental health benefits of psilocybin, and we’re seeing more and more parents—particularly mothers—exploring microdosing to help alleviate the pressures of parenting.
Is It Safe to Microdose While Pregnant or Breastfeeding?
This is a very personal decision, and the research on microdosing while pregnant or breastfeeding is still in its early stages. There is limited data available, but one animal reproduction study on magic mushrooms showed no increased risk of birth defects. Additionally, anecdotal evidence suggests that many mothers feel comfortable microdosing during breastfeeding with little to no risk.
If you choose to microdose while breastfeeding, it’s crucial to source psilocybin from a reputable provider. At Fungal Friend, we prioritize quality and safety in all of our products, ensuring that you’re getting a reliable and consistent microdosing experience.
How to Get Started with Microdosing
If you’re curious about microdosing and want to give it a try, it’s important to source your products from a trusted and reputable provider. At Fungal Friend, we offer a wide range of high-quality microdosing products that are perfect for beginners and experienced users alike. Whether you’re looking to buy microdoses online or want to shop microdoses in Canada, we’ve got you covered with everything you need for a safe and fulfilling microdosing experience.
Start by selecting a protocol that aligns with your personal goals, and don’t hesitate to explore complementary practices like journaling, meditation, and mindful movement to get the most out of your microdosing journey. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at [email protected]—we’re here to support you every step of the way.