Beyond Asanas: The Transformative Power of Integrating Yoga and Psychedelics

Rethinking Yoga: More Than Just Stretching

For many in the West, yoga conjures images of stretchy poses and sweaty exercise classes—a physical activity at the gym, perhaps followed by a relaxing nap. But as Henry Kandel, physics and cognitive science teacher, certified yoga instructor, and author of the forthcoming book Yoga of the Ketamine State, explained on the Webdelics podcast, this limited view misses yoga’s true power.

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Kandel clarifies that yoga, in its deepest sense, is a centuries-old technology of the mind-body—a rigorous method for harmonizing our physical, energetic, and mental states. More than a series of poses, yoga encompasses breath work, meditation, and systematic self-inquiry, all designed to unlock and optimize the flow of our vital energy (what the yogic tradition calls “prana”).

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The Paradox of Energy: Relaxed Yet Energized

In conversation with host Scott Mason, a fascinating paradox emerged: yoga can leave practitioners both relaxed and energized at once. This isn’t just an interesting feeling—it’s the sign of a body and mind in balance. On the other hand, when that balance is absent—when our energy is locked into patterns of self-antagonism—we experience the familiar burdens of anxiety and depression.

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Kandel points out that much of the mental health crisis in the modern West results from our own energy turning inward destructively, manifesting as physical tension, slumped postures, and cycling negative thought patterns. The yogic approach is about cultivating awareness of these patterns, releasing unconscious holding, and redirecting energy toward life-affirming pursuits—whether that’s artistic creativity, athletic performance, or simple day-to-day wellbeing.

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Psychedelics as Catalysts for Awareness

Where do psychedelics come in? Kandel stresses that integrating yoga and psychedelics is about more than mixing two “cool” modalities. Psychedelics are powerful agents for altering consciousness, dissolving habitual ego-patterns, and amplifying emotion and awareness. However, this intensity can swing both ways: without preparation, psychedelics can lead to overwhelming anxiety or negative trips.

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Enter yoga as a preparation and support system. Think of it as “internal technology” you bring with you into the psychedelic journey—a set of tools, such as breathwork and mindful attention, that help guide and harmonize the experience.

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Yoga and the Ketamine Experience: A Personal Story

Kandel shared a deeply personal account of integrating yoga into a profound ketamine session. After taking a higher-than-intended dose, he found himself in what psychonauts call a “K-hole”—a state in which the sense of self and agency dissolves. Yet, because he’d ingrained yogic breathing and awareness practices, those tools activated automatically. Instead of spiraling into panic, he was able to channel the energy of the experience into a transcendent state, observing thought patterns from a peaceful vantage point as his ego returned.

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This, he argues, is the magic: by weaving yogic awareness into the fabric of one’s consciousness, those tools remain accessible even when the ordinary self is offline. In the context of the psychedelic comedown, this means that we can witness the re-emergence of familiar anxieties and choose not to re-entangle with them. The experience offers a golden opportunity to redirect energy, fostering deeper healing and psychological freedom.

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Integration for Everyday Life and Mental Health

The integration doesn’t end when the psychedelic wears off. Kandel underscores that post-psychedelic yoga practice can help anchor insights, foster resilience, and prevent relapse into negative patterns. Whether the goal is relief from PTSD, anxiety, or depression, regular yogic practice can help solidify the gains made during the psychedelic journey and sustain positive changes.

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A New Blueprint for Healing

As the episode concluded, both Kandel and Mason reflected on the wider potential of joining yoga and psychedelic practice: a culture in which more individuals are equipped with inner tools for awareness, emotional regulation, and energy harmonization. This, they argue, could profoundly shift not only personal mental health outcomes, but also social dynamics at large.

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If the sum is greater than its parts, integrating ancient yogic wisdom with the careful use of psychedelics may just be the next frontier in human flourishing.

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Interested in diving deeper? Stay tuned for more on the intersection of psychedelics, plant medicine, and unexpected modalities on the Webdelics podcast.

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