Generally, by the time New Year’s Eve rolls around, we’re feeling a bit green around the gills. Show us another gluhwein, eggnog, or glass of fizz, and the headache comes on before we raise it to our chapped winter lips. With the twinkling lights, jingling bells, and cosy vibes, it’s hard not to get carried away with the seasonal splendor, and by that glass that keeps being refilled as if by magic. 

Of course, getting a bit tipsy at the office Christmas party can be really fun. But there are plenty of reasons why a person might want to reduce or even eliminate alcohol during the festive season; whether it’s due to addiction reasons, intolerance, not wanting to say anything embarrassing in front of the boss, or just avoiding feeling like (festive) crap the next day. Many people also find that when the booze starts flowing, so do tempers — which is not ideal over the family dinner table. 

Photo by Museums Victoria on Unsplash

So what are the alternatives? Of course, there’s a whole world of soft-drinks at our fingertips (or energy drinks if bouncing off the walls is your idea of a good time). But if you want a buzz that you can enjoy all evening, but feel bright-eyed and bushy-tailed the next day then a social dose of magic mushrooms or truffles could be right up your street. 

What is a Social Dose of Magic Mushrooms?

A social dose of magic mushrooms typically refers to a relatively low dose of psilocybin (the active compound in magic mushrooms) that is consumed in a social setting, often with friends or in a group, to facilitate positive interactions, creativity, or shared experiences. This kind of dose usually ranges between 0.5 to 1.5 grams of dried mushrooms (or 5-10g of fresh magic truffles), which is lower than a more intense, introspective dose. At this level, the effects can be mild to moderate, often producing feelings of connection, enhanced empathy, and an uplifted mood, without leading to overwhelming hallucinations or intense psychological effects. Basically, it’s fun! This is what makes a social dose an ideal alternative to drinking this festive season.

Benefits of a Social Dose of Magic Mushrooms or Truffles:

1. Enhanced Sociability: Psilocybin can increase feelings of empathy and emotional connection, which can deepen conversations and strengthen relationships in a group setting (i.e a party). People may find themselves feeling more open, understanding, and communicative.

2. Improved Mood: A low dose of magic mushrooms can induce mild euphoria and uplift one’s mood, making social interactions feel more enjoyable and connected. This is in contrast to alcohol, which often has a depressant effect, potentially leading to negative emotions or lowering inhibitions in less productive ways.

3. Creativity & Fun: Psilocybin has been linked to enhanced creativity and novel thinking. Social doses may lead to spontaneous and fun conversations, imaginative activities, or even a heightened sense of humor. In a social setting, this can be a source of shared joy and exploration — perfect for the festive party season. 

4. Less Physical Impairment: Compared to alcohol, a low dose of magic mushrooms tends to have fewer physical impairments (like coordination issues, slurring, or dizziness). You are more likely to maintain control over your body and mind, without feeling like you’ve lost composure, or embarrassed yourself. 

5. Mindfulness and Presence: Psilocybin can heighten sensory perception, making people more present in the moment. In social settings, this can result in a deeper appreciation for the conversation or environment, helping participants connect with each other and the experience at hand.

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Comparing A Social Dose of Psilocybin to Drinking Alcohol:

Mood and Mental Clarity

Magic Mushrooms: A social dose tends to promote a positive, balanced mindset with emotional clarity. It’s less likely to lead to aggression, sadness, or confusion that can accompany alcohol use.

Alcohol: While alcohol can lead to temporary feelings of euphoria, it often comes with mood swings, lowered inhibitions, and can increase the likelihood of poor decision-making or conflict.

Cognitive Effects

Magic Mushrooms: Even at low doses, psilocybin enhances creativity and cognitive flexibility. Social interactions may be more enjoyable and insightful.

 Alcohol: While alcohol can initially boost confidence, it impairs cognitive function and coordination. Long-term use can contribute to memory issues and reduce mental clarity.

Physical Effects

Magic Mushrooms: A low dose typically doesn’t impair motor skills, and any changes in perception are usually mild. It’s easier to have coherent conversations and engage in activities.

Alcohol: Even small amounts of alcohol can impair motor skills, speech, and decision-making. Larger amounts can lead to intoxication and significantly impair physical control.

Potential For Addiction

Magic Mushrooms: Psilocybin is considered non-addictive. There’s no physical dependence or withdrawal symptoms associated with its use, and tolerance builds quickly, meaning regular use isn’t common. (This does mean if you have multiple festive events in a row, you can’t social dose for all of them.)

Alcohol: Alcohol has a well-documented potential for addiction, physical dependence, and withdrawal symptoms. Overuse can lead to long-term health consequences.

Long-term Impact on Mental Health

Magic Mushrooms: While magic mushrooms can cause temporary changes in perception, many users report long-term benefits, such as increased emotional resilience, creativity, and a sense of connectedness. Some research suggests that psychedelics may help with conditions like anxiety or depression, but these benefits vary between individuals.

Alcohol: Long-term alcohol use is linked to a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment. Chronic drinking can also lead to liver damage and other health problems.

Things to Remember When Taking a Social Dose:

So, a social dose of psilocybin certainly sounds like the ideal way to enjoy the festive season. However,  working out your dosage sweet-spot might take a few tries. Everyone is different in terms of tolerance and body physiology. Our recommendation for those who’ve never ‘social-dosed’ before? Start with your usual microdose and work your way up slowly.

If you usually microdose on 1g of magic truffle, try 2 or 3g*. Keep the day free. If this dose feels right, then great! If not, decrease or increase slightly. Once you have a feeling for your dose, ask to meet up with a close friend an hour or so after you’ve taken it. This will give you a good idea whether you feel sociable and at ease around people on this dose. Once you know which dosage works for you, you’re ready for the festive party season!

*Adjust accordingly if you are using dried mushrooms or fresh mushrooms using our dosage chart.

A Social Revolution

Ultimately, the perfect social dose for you will take a little bit of time to work out. It is also true that some people never feel social when on a noticeable dose of shrooms — it just gets them feeling a bit too introspective. But for many people this new way of socializing is revolutionary. 

Of course, however you choose to enjoy the holiday season is up to you!. There’s no right or wrong way to celebrate, as long as everyone is having a good time. 

You never know, the Social Dose could become your newest Christmas tradition!