The Psychedelic Couch

Unveiling the Womb of Mother Earth: Maya Medicine and Sweat Lodges | EP8 | with Roland Torikian

In this insightful episode, Roland Torikian recounts his profound journey into Maya medicine, finding his spiritual calling in the heart of Mexico. Delving into the transformative power of community and ceremony, he explores how these ancient practices connect us to both the seen and unseen worlds.
Initiated into Maya Medicine under the guidance of Lauro de la Cruz during the tumultuous Zapatista uprising, he shares how immersing himself in the culture felt like a homecoming, as he served the local Mayan community.
Central to Maya healing practices are sweat lodges, which symbolise the womb of Mother Earth and serve as spaces for communal healing and transformation. Through the harmonisation of elemental forces and the acknowledgment of the visible and invisible realms, participants are invited to confront and transcend their inner imbalances.
Roland emphasises the importance of intention setting and integration after sweat lodge ceremonies, urging participants to release unwanted states and embrace healing qualities. By reflecting on personal needs and contributions to the wider community, individuals can embark on a journey of self-discovery and collective healing.
Roland also addresses misconceptions surrounding sweat lodges, highlighting the importance of preparation and caution for individuals with certain medical conditions.
Ultimately, the sweat lodge becomes a microcosm of the world, stripping away inauthenticity and fostering humility, as participants reconnect with their bodies and breath, and listen within for guidance and healing.
Listeners are left with a profound understanding of the transformative power of Maya medicine, community, and ceremony in restoring balance and wellbeing.
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Maya Medicine, originating from the Mayan civilization over 2,500 years ago, represents an integrated system of natural healing deeply rooted in the understanding of the interconnectedness between humanity and the natural world. 
Central to this medical system is the harmonization and balance of the five elemental forces: earth, water, fire, wind, and space, as well as the recognition of the relationship between the visible and invisible realms.
Roland Torikian's journey as a Maya healer spans nearly three decades, encompassing both Mexico and the UK. His initiation into Maya Medicine occurred under the tutelage of Lauro de la Cruz in the Maya highlands of Chiapas, Mexico. Following his apprenticeship, Roland established a clinic in Dharamshala, North India, while delving into the study of Tibetan Buddhist philosophy.
In his practice, Roland bridges the worlds of Maya and Tibetan medicine and healing, drawing parallels and connections between these ancient traditions. He emphasizes the utilization of ceremonies, meditation, and shamanic practices derived from the Kagyu lineage and Bon Buddhism. By integrating these modalities, Roland offers a holistic approach to healing that addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of individuals.
Through his extensive experience and training, Roland embodies a unique perspective that embraces the wisdom of multiple cultural and spiritual traditions. His work not only serves to heal the ailments of the body but also to nourish the soul and facilitate deeper connections to the natural and spiritual worlds.
Follow Roland : @maya_medicine and at www.mayamedicine.co.uk
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The Psychedelic Couch is hosted by Clare Faulkner, a Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist and Certified Psycho-Sexologist. 
Follow The Psychedelic Couch on Instagram at @thepsychedelicouch 
Follow Clare on Instagram at @clarefaulknertherapy 

Embracing Eros: Journeying into Tantra's Transcendent Teachings | EP7 | with Valentina Leo

Welcome to a deeply transformative episode of The Psychedelic Podcast. Today, we embark on a journey into the profound teachings of tantra with our insightful guest, Valentina Leo aka Mrslove. 
Valentina begins by unravelling the layers of tantra, drawing from the wisdom of Osho to illuminate the Western world's wounded relationship with eroticism and sexuality. In a society where the spirit and body have been tragically divided by religious dogma, tantra offers a path to healing this rift and accessing a deeper connection with divinity.
But what is tantra really about? Valentina explains that at its core, tantra is an exploration of our erotic relationship with divinity—a practice that goes far beyond mere sexual activity, requiring a deep understanding of its overarching philosophy.
As we delve deeper into the conversation, Valentina challenges the prevailing winner and loser mentality of our society, reminding us of our inherent authority over our own experiences in life. In tantra, every aspect of our being, even our egos, is seen as an expression of the divine, calling us to embrace both freedom and responsibility in equal measure.
We confront the impact of patriarchy and the call for a collective endeavour towards freedom, recognising the true power of the feminine in letting go and embracing inclusion.
Moving beyond the narrative of healing as fixing what's broken, Valentina invites us to embrace practices that acknowledge our inherent wholeness, celebrating every aspect of our existence.
From the intersection of sex and dying to the power of visualisation and imagination, Valentina guides us through the profound journey of entering the body and accessing the depths of the heart. Tears become the lubrication of the heart, leading us to the transformative realisation that grief is not a hindrance but a gateway to expansion and understanding.
In this episode, we confront the core of our being, celebrating every experience as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. Join us as we embrace the wisdom of tantra and embark on a journey of profound transformation and celebration.
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Valentina Leo is passionate and extremely well regard Italian born Tantra teacher based in Cape town.  At the core of Valentina's philosophy lies a profound reverence for truth and the marvels of embodied existence. She sees the human body not merely as a vessel but as a sacred gateway to deeper understanding and connection. Her teachings extend beyond the realm of intimate relationships, touching upon every aspect of daily existence.  In essence Valentina encapsulates traditional tantric wisdom for modern living and loving.
Follow Valentina: @tantraschool_fascinatingwonder
www.fascinatingwonderment.com and follow her podcast Erotic Wisdom with MrsLove
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The Psychedelic Couch is hosted by Clare Faulkner, a Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist and Certified Psycho-Sexologist. 
Follow The Psychedelic Couch on Instagram at @thepsychedelicouch 
Follow Clare on Instagram at @clarefaulknertherapy 

Dancing Our Way Home: Ecstatic Rhythms and Self-Discovery | EP6 | with Sophie Bolton

In this episode, Sophie Bolton takes us on a journey into the transformative power of ecstatic dance, revealing how music and movement can serve as a gateway to profound connection, healing, and self-discovery.
Sophie shares her personal ethos of dance as a vehicle for presence, emphasising its ability to awaken the body's innate wisdom without the need for external substances. Through ecstatic dance, participants are invited to respond to the primal rhythms of the music, tapping into their own consciousness and unleashing their inner magic. She discusses how dance has been overshadowed by drugs and alcohol in our culture but sees it as a path to reclaiming our innate joy and healing.
Drawing from her own experiences with anxiety, Sophie illuminates how movement serves as a potent tool for grounding and releasing mental loops, bringing individuals back into their bodies and the present moment. She envisions a future where dance spaces are accessible in public areas like stations and airports, fostering human connection amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Sophie delves into the essence of ecstatic dance and discusses practices like Gabrielle Roth's Five Rhythms. She explores the primal expression and hedonistic joy inherent in ecstatic dance, allowing participants to reconnect with their primal selves and evoke raw emotions in a safe and supportive environment.
The conversation extends to the tender exploration of sexuality within dance, emphasising the healing potential of embodied movement and intentional music selection. Sophie emphasises the importance of creating inclusive spaces where individuals can authentically express themselves without judgment.
Throughout the discussion, Sophie shares insights from her own journey, including transformative experiences with Samantha Sweetwater in California and the profound connection fostered through silent headphone dances during the COVID-19 pandemic. She underscores the importance of reconnecting with nature and embracing a childlike sense of wonder in dance and in life.
Looking ahead, Sophie envisions a future where dance is readily accessible to all, with public spaces repurposed to accommodate community gatherings and ecstatic expression. Through her passion and dedication, Sophie invites listeners to join her in reclaiming the power of dance as a sacred pathway to self-discovery, healing, and communal connection.
Recommended reading:
- Dancing in the Streets: A history of collective joy by Barbara Ehrenreich 
- Maps to Ecstasy by Gabrielle Roth 
For Conscious Dances: 
@ecstaticdance.uk
www.ecstaticdancelondon.com
www.5rhythms.com
www.ecestaticdance.org 
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Sophie's journey as an Ecstatic Dance DJ and Elemental Conscious Dance Facilitator highlights her deep connection to the transformative power of movement, sound and expression. With a decade of experience in Europe's dance scene, she has honed her craft, creating spaces where individuals can explore their vulnerabilities and strengths alike.
In her workshops and retreats, Sophie invites people to embrace their authenticity, recognizing that true strength often lies in acknowledging and embracing one's vulnerabilities. Through Elemental Conscious Dance, she facilitates a journey of self-discovery, using music as a tool to awaken the soul and activate the truth within.
Drawing from a diverse range of musical influences, Sophie's sound journeys traverse cultures and genres, creating a tapestry of beats that invite participants to meet their edges and explore their inner landscapes. 
At the heart of Sophie's work lies the belief that through movement and expression, we can tap into the deepest parts of ourselves, allowing our true essence to shine forth. Within the supportive container of her workshops and retreats, participants are invited to explore what it means to be fully alive, held and supported by the greatest power of all: love.
Follow Sophie: @sophiebolton___ and at www.sophiebolton.co.uk  
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The Psychedelic Couch is hosted by Clare Faulkner, a Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist and Certified Psycho-Sexologist. 
Follow The Psychedelic Couch on Instagram at @thepsychedelicouch 
Follow Clare on Instagram at @clarefaulknertherapy 
 

Awakening the Spirit: Kundalini and the Route to Inner Wisdom | EP5 | with Charlene Belcher

In this episode, join us as Charlene Belcher dispels myths surrounding Kundalini, offering insights into this ancient practice often dubbed as ‘yoga before it was kidnapped.’ We explore the quest for deeper meaning often found lacking in mainstream yoga practices, and how yoga, meaning union, serves as a conduit for reconnecting with our inner wisdom. 
Charlene guides us through the transition from the Piscean to the Aquarian age, highlighting its profound impact on modern society. As we navigate a world increasingly disconnected from nature and ourselves, Charlene offers guidance on awakening and reconnecting with our divine essence. 
Join us as we uncover the transformative power of Kundalini, explore the creation of The Light Club, and delve into the soul-stirring effects of house music for heart opening and coherence. Through reflection on Charlene’s own healing journey, we're reminded of the importance of cultivating inner calm and grounding, guiding us towards wholeness in our life’s work. 
Tune in as we embark on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and awakening.
Recommended reading:
Dulcie Swanston and Iain Price- Dose Personal Prescriptions for a Happier Life and 52 Science Based Ways to Get it.
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Founder of the House of Kundalini, Charlene Belcher is a dedicated and passionate teacher, deeply committed to creating spaces for healing and connection through Kundalini yoga and sound therapy. Her retreat spaces offer a transformative experience for her students emphasising the power of community and coming together to heal and rediscover joy and purpose.  By combining her love for Kundalini yoga, music, and spirituality Charlene creates a welcoming and uplifting environment for her students to explore and deepen their practice.
Follow Charlene: @houseofkundalini and at www.houseofkundalini.com  
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The Psychedelic Couch is hosted by Clare Faulkner, a Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist and Certified Psycho-Sexologist. 
Follow The Psychedelic Couch on Instagram at @thepsychedelicouch 
Follow Clare on Instagram at @clarefaulknertherapy 
 

Body Wisdom: Exploring Somatic Movement Therapy for Transformation | EP4 | with Linda Zurak

In this insightful episode, Linda Zurak delves into the transformative realm of somatic movement therapy, offering her perspective on healing and self-awareness. Drawing a distinction between traditional talk therapy and somatic movement therapy, Linda emphasises the latter's bottom-up approach, wherein the body serves as a gateway to understanding and addressing deep-seated issues.
Throughout the discussion, Linda illuminates how our bodies hold a different reality, often at odds with our cognitive understanding. This disconnection between what the mind perceives and what the body feels underscores the significance of somatic therapy in bridging the gap between physical, emotional, and psychological realms.
Linda shares practical techniques for staying grounded in one's body and maintaining healthy boundaries, highlighting the power of attuning, and the release of tension through methods like shaking. She underscores the importance of embodied awareness, offering tools to foster a deeper connection with our physical selves.
Moreover, Linda advocates for trauma-informed practices in physical therapy, exercise, and movement instruction, recognising the potential for dissociation in clients. She emphasises the role of the therapeutic relationship in creating safety and facilitating profound insights into the body's wisdom.
The conversation extends to topics such as sexuality, anger expression, and the freedom of midlife, showcasing the diverse applications of somatic movement therapy in enhancing overall well-being. Linda dispels myths surrounding somatic movement therapy and offers guidance on integrating it with traditional talk therapy for holistic healing.
Listeners gain valuable insights into recognising and articulating bodily sensations, fostering introspection, and navigating relational dynamics with greater ease. Through Linda's expertise, they discover the transformative potential of somatic movement therapy as a catalyst for profound personal growth and healing.
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Linda Zurak is a highly experienced and dedicated professional in the field of somatic movement therapy and embodiment teaching. With over 25 years of expertise, she has a deep understanding of the intricate connections between mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Her primary goal is to empower individuals to surpass their perceived limitations and live life to the fullest.
Through her trauma-informed approach, Linda helps people identify and overcome the various blocks that hinder their vibrancy, empowerment, and freedom. She believes in the innate wisdom of the body and works to facilitate a reconnection between individuals and their bodily intelligence. 
In essence, Linda's holistic approach to somatic movement therapy and embodiment teaching fosters profound personal growth, leading individuals to live with greater authenticity, vitality, and fulfilment.
 
Follow Linda: @lindazurak
www.lindazurak.com
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The Psychedelic Couch is hosted by Clare Faulkner, a Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist and Certified Psycho-Sexologist. 
Follow The Psychedelic Couch on Instagram at @thepsychedelicouch 
Follow Clare on Instagram at @clarefaulknertherapy 
 

Psychedelic Frontiers: Navigating Mental Health Challenges in the NHS and Treatment Potential | EP3 | with Dr. Frederico Magalhaes

In this captivating podcast episode, we delve into the complex landscape of mental health, exploring the challenges faced by the NHS, the potential of psychedelics in treatment, and the ethical considerations surrounding their use.
Dr. Frederico Magalhães sheds light on the mounting pressures on the NHS, with referrals doubling over the past few years, particularly evident in conditions like eating disorders. We explore the intersection of mental health and conditions like Autism, highlighting the need for comprehensive, holistic care.
The conversation then shifts to the role of psychedelics in addressing the mental health crisis.  Dr. Magalhães emphasises their unique approach, not centred solely on symptom resolution but on fostering profound insights and connections, challenging societal norms of disconnection. However, concerns about scalability and cost pose challenges, potentially limiting access to those with may need them most.
We delve into the pharmacology of psychedelics, contrasting their effects with traditional SSRIs, and discussing implications for sexual function. While acknowledging their potential risks, Dr. Magalhães stresses the importance of integration and community support in mitigating adverse effects.
Drawing from clinical trials, including those at the Imperial College Centre for Psychedelic Research, we explore promising findings and the role of factors like therapeutic relationship and ego dissolution in treatment outcomes. Psychedelics emerge as agents of change, transcending diagnostic boundaries and amplifying attachment dynamics, necessitating their careful management and integration into existing therapeutic frameworks.
Ethical considerations are considered, from equitable access to guarding against abuse and exploitation. Dr. Magalhães expresses his hopes for the future of psychedelic research, pondering the interplay of drugs, therapeutic relationships, and environmental factors in facilitating healing.
Listeners are left with a deeper understanding of the complexities of mental health care, the potential of psychedelics as catalysts for change, and the imperative of navigating ethical considerations to ensure equitable access and responsible use in therapeutic settings.
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Dr. Frederico Magalhães is a psychiatrist and psychedelic guide whose work has focused on the potential clinical applications of psychedelic medicine. His main areas of interest are the therapeutic frameworks and processes of psychedelic therapy for individuals with mental health difficulties, the inherent challenges in this work, and the experiences of both participants and guides.
Dr. Magalhães completed his medical training at the University of Porto with a Master’s Thesis on Mindfulness-based therapies. He specialised in Psychiatry at Oxford, where he currently serves as an NHS consultant psychiatrist and collaborates with the Oxford ketamine clinic on psychotherapeutic interventions.
Dr. Magalhães is an honorary clinical research fellow at the Imperial Centre for Psychedelic Research, where he serves as a study psychiatrist and psychedelic guide on depression and anorexia trials. He is also a member of the Royal College of Psychiatry Psychedelics Working Group.
Follow Dr. Magalhães at LinkedIn: Frederico Magalhães
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The Psychedelic Couch is hosted by Clare Faulkner, a Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist and Certified Psycho-Sexologist. 
Follow The Psychedelic Couch on Instagram at @thepsychedelicouch 
Follow Clare on Instagram at @clarefaulknertherapy
 
 

Breathe Deep: Recovery through the Reviving Power of Breathwork | EP2 | with Katka Jacz

In this enlightening episode, Katka Jacz delves into the transformative power of breathwork and its profound impact on our emotional well-being. Discover how connected circular breathing can unlock stored emotions and trauma, leading to cathartic release and deep healing. Katka guides us through the physiological processes of breathwork sessions, shedding light on the common sensations experienced, from tingling to shifts in body temperature.
Explore the intersection between breathwork and traditional psychotherapy, and how together they support personal growth and healing journeys. Learn about various breathwork modalities like Holotropic and Rebirthing Breathwork, and how they offer unique pathways to self-discovery. 
Katka vulnerably shares her own trauma journey and how breathwork became her lifeline, allowing her to navigate grief and reclaim inner peace. Gain insights into integrating breathwork lessons into daily life, finding reputable facilitators, and understanding contraindications.  
Join us as we explore the transformative potential of breathwork in deepening self-connection and fostering meaningful relationships.
 
Book recommendations and recourses:
- www.naturalbreathing.com
- Breathe Well by Aimee Hartley
- Waking The Tiger: Healing Trauma by Peter A. Lavine
- Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor
- A New Earth and The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
- Just Breath by Susan Wiggs
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Katka Jacz is a seasoned intuitive breathwork facilitator, complemented by her extensive training in various schools of yoga and meditation. Her journey into this field was catalysed by significant traumatic events which ignited a profound commitment to spiritual exploration and healing.
Navigating through the challenges of her own healing process, Katka has found solace and insights on her path. Despite the difficulties encountered along the way, her journey has been characterized by invaluable lessons, inspiration, and a sense of enlightenment.
Currently residing in The Hague, Katka extends her expertise in breathwork facilitation to both individual and group settings. With her compassionate guidance and wealth of experiential knowledge, she welcomes individuals to embark on their own transformative journeys toward healing and self-discovery.
 
Follow Katka:  @katkajacza and at  www.katkajacz.nl
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The Psychedelic Couch is hosted by Clare Faulkner, a Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist and Certified Psycho-Sexologist. 
Follow The Psychedelic Couch on Instagram at @thepsychedelicouch 
Follow Clare on Instagram at @clarefaulknertherapy 

The ADAMO Method: The Future of Intimacy and Psychedelic Sex Therapy | EP1 | with Dr Molly Maloof

Dr. Molly Maloof specializes in tailoring health optimization and personalized medical solutions for high-achieving entrepreneurs, investors, and technology leaders. Prior to founding Adamo Bioscience, she spent three years pioneering a course on health span within Stanford University's Wellness Department. Her company, Adamo Bioscience, is dedicated to showcasing the measurable impact of human connection on healing processes.
At the forefront of her endeavours is the development of The Adamo Method, a ground-breaking sex therapy program designed to address sexual dysfunction, enhance relationship bonds, and promote sexual health. In her boutique medical practice, Dr. Maloof conducts personalized medical research and optimization strategies for clients from companies including OpenAI, Zenga, Amazon, McKinsey, and Deutsche Bank.
With over a decade of experience, she has advised and consulted for over 50 companies in digital health, consumer health, and biotechnology. Dr. Maloof, also the author of The Spark Factor, leads the charge in personalized medicine, digital health technologies, biofeedback-assisted lifestyle interventions, psychedelic medicine, and evidence-based wellness products and services.
Follow Dr Molly: @drmolly.co/ @livingadamo and at www.drmolly.co
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The Psychedelic Couch is hosted by Clare Faulkner, a Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist and Certified Psycho-Sexologist. 
Follow The Psychedelic Couch on Instagram at @thepsychedelicouch 
Follow Clare on Instagram at @clarefaulknertherapy 

Introduction with Clare Faulkner

Welcome to The Psychedelic Couch, a podcast delving into the realms of expanded consciousness and holistic healing. Hosted by Clare Faulkner, a psycho-sexologist and relationship psychotherapist, this podcast invites listeners on a transformative journey exploring ancient spiritual practices, psychedelics, plant medicines, and contemporary therapeutic modalities.
In conversations with special guests, Clare uncovers the therapeutic potential of practices like breath-work, dance, yoga, psychedelics, and sound healing, to name a few. Listeners are invited to be inspired by the ways these powerful tools can be used responsibly and safely to transform every aspect of their lives.
Clare shares her own profound experiences with expanded states, firmly believing in their power to facilitate deep healing and personal growth. As a psychotherapist, Clare recognises the lack of comprehensive and accessible information about expanded states and their healing benefits. Through the podcast, she aims to provide education, guidance, and resources to those interested in exploring these modalities safely and responsibly. Furthermore, she seeks to create a supportive community for holistic healing, recognising the importance of relationships and community.
Clare acknowledges the growing interest in alternative healing modalities, fuelled by increasing research and anecdotal evidence supporting their efficacy. With a world facing numerous challenges and a cultural shift towards mindfulness, wellness, and self-discovery, now is the perfect time to delve into these topics, drawing wisdom from ancestors, indigenous people, and grassroots practitioners.
The podcast serves as a platform for listeners to connect, share experiences, and learn from each other. Clare welcomes everyone to join in on The Psychedelic Couch, where healing begins and connection thrives, as profound insights into love, compassion, and the beauty of the human condition are discovered.
Join us on this journey of exploration and transformation.
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The Psychedelic Couch is hosted by Clare Faulkner, a Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist and Certified Psycho-Sexologist. 
Follow The Psychedelic Couch on Instagram at @thepsychedelicouch 
Follow Clare on Instagram at @clarefaulknertherapy