97. Enhancing Cognitive Flexibility with Psychedelics to Create Life Change with The Psychedelic Scientist, Dr. Manesh Girn

The Psychedelic Mom

Dr. Manesh Girn is a postdoctoral neuroscientist at UCSF and a dynamic educator in psychedelic science. Known for his brain imaging research on the psychedelic experience, he has been lead or co-author on over 20 scientific publications related to psychedelics, brain networks, and abstract cognitive processes. As the driving force behind ‘The Psychedelic Scientist’ on Instagram and YouTube, Manesh brings cutting-edge psychedelic research to the public in an engaging and accessible manner, distilling complex science in a digestible way.

Episode Highlights

• Brain imaging studies on the effects of psilocybin, LSD, and DMT
• Key brain regions impacted by psychedelics, including the transmodal association cortex
• How psychedelics affect the brain’s models of self and world
• Manesh’s first psychedelic experience at 17 years old
• Neuroplasticity and how psychedelics promote new neural connections
• The profound spiritual and physical effects of 5-MeO-DMT
• Differences between the brain effects of 5-MeO-DMT and psilocybin
• The microdosing debate: placebo effects vs. psychedelic-assisted change
• Potential anti-inflammatory and neuroplastic effects of microdosing
• How ketamine affects the brain differently from classic psychedelics
• The importance of lifestyle changes in supporting neuroplasticity after psychedelic journeys
• How psychedelics help reset the nervous system and process trauma
• Combining Internal Family Systems (IFS), somatic therapy, and psychedelics for deep healing
• Psychedelics’ potential for enhancing creativity and human flourishing
• Concerns about the misuse and integration of psychedelics in Western systems
• Psychedelics as potential tools for healing systemic and societal trauma
• How changing cultural attitudes towards psychedelics are being driven by younger generations
• Meditation, mindfulness, and psychedelics in personal growth

Dr. Manesh Girn’s Links

• Website: www.maneshgirn.com
• Instagram: @thepsychedelicscientist

Resources Mentioned in This Episode

• Episode 88 with Zeus Tipado
• Episode 59 with Gul Dölen & Stefanie Cohen
• Netflix Docuseries: (UN)WELL
• Research Report: Mindfulness Meditation Enhances Positive Effects of Psilocybin
• Non-profit Psychedelic Research Organization: Center for Minds

Dr. Manesh Girn’s Gift to You

• Dr. Manesh’s FREE Psychedelics and Neuroplasticity PDF Cheat Sheet, describing 5 steps to rewire your brain with psychedelics