Azul DelGrasso

This presentation explores 5-MeO-DMT–occasioned unitive consciousness as a transformation in the phenomenology of selfhood, relationality, and ecological identity. Drawing on psychedelic phenomenology, transpersonal psychology, ecopsychology, religious studies, and reflexive transdisciplinary methodology, the inquiry examines how experiences of ego dissolution, nondual awareness, and symbolic rebirth may reorient perceptions of self, nature, ancestry, and ethical responsibility. Rather than approaching 5-MeO-DMT solely as a therapeutic intervention, the presentation situates the experience within wider contexts of Western individualism, spiritual disconnection, trauma, ecological grief, and planetary belonging. It also addresses key limitations, including the risks of universalizing mystical experience, romanticizing entheogens, neglecting cultural lineages, and underemphasizing preparation and integration. I argue that the significance of 5-MeO-DMT for consciousness studies lies not only in its capacity to occasion acute unitive states, but in the ways such states may be interpreted, embodied, and integrated into ethical and ecological life. The presentation concludes by proposing future directions for research on 5-MeO-DMT, unitive consciousness, and ecological renewal through spiritually informed, culturally responsible, and methodologically pluralistic approaches.

Dr. Azul DelGrasso is an ecopsychologist, entheogenic scholar, and ceremonialist whose work explores 5-MeO-DMT, unitive consciousness, ecological identity, and trauma-informed approaches to psychedelic integration. He holds a PhD from the California Institute of Integral Studies, where his doctoral research examined entheogenic gnosis through ecopsychedelic, transpersonal, and cultural lenses. Based in Denver, he brings more than 30 years of public health experience, with specialization in trauma-informed care and cultural health in diverse communities. His work bridges consciousness studies, ceremony, and ethical integration, emphasizing personal healing, ecological belonging, and relational responsibility. He also holds master’s degrees in Latin American Studies from California State University Los Angeles and Ecopsychology from Naropa University.