What Does “Set & Setting” Mean?

If you have begun to explore the concept of non-recreational psychedelic use, you may have heard the term “set and setting” as something to be mindful of.  The term was coined by Timothy Leary, a prominent psychologist and advocate for the use of psychedelics in therapy, particularly during the 1960s. "Set" and "setting" refer to two key factors that influence the experience and outcome of using psychedelics for both recreational and non-recreational purposes:

Set 

This refers to the individual's mindset or mental state before taking the psychedelic. It includes their mood, expectations, beliefs, and overall psychological readiness. Having a positive, open, and stable mindset is considered necessary for a beneficial experience, as it can help guide the individual through the emotional and psychological challenges that might arise during the session.

Setting

This refers to the physical and social environment where the psychedelic experience takes place. A calm, safe, and supportive setting is important for ensuring the individual feels comfortable and secure. This might involve a quiet room with soothing lighting, music, and the presence of trained therapists or guides who can offer reassurance and support if needed.

Together, the right set and setting help create a conducive environment for working with the medicine, minimizing the risk of negative experiences (like anxiety or confusion) and maximizing the potential for healing, insight, and positive outcomes.