Lyn Hunstad

This presentation offers A Model for Awakening, grounded in a synthesis of spiritual practices and framed through the lens of intentional psychedelics. Drawing on insights from previous work—including a detailed exploration of classically structured spiritual practices and psychedelic-assisted transformative experience—this concurrent talk proposes a layered framework to support consciousness-expanding release from the egoic self. The model rests on three interdependent factors: Focused Awareness (the Force): the intensity of attentional focus generated by a practice or experience. Egoic Thickness (the Barrier): the rigidity or density of one's identity constructs and conditioning. Permeability (the Softening): the openness of consciousness, especially the capacity to rest in neutral receptivity toward whatever arises. Each factor can be cultivated through different modalities. Classical practices such as mantra, Zen, and self-inquiry reinforce concentrated focus and dismantle identity constructs. Heart-opening practices (bhakti, loving-kindness, ecstatic work) soften barriers and expand permeability. Psychedelic experiences—especially with substances like toad/5-MeO-DMT, psilocybin, MDMA, ketamine, and ibogaine—can serve as potent catalysts across one or more dimensions of the model. Research into psychedelics affirms their capacity to broaden the repertoire of brain states and facilitate ego-softening and heightened connectivity. For instance, psilocybin has been shown to increase brain dynamics and functional connectivity variability in networks associated with consciousness and selfhood. By intentionally cross-training spiritual practices and mindful psychedelics within a structured framework, practitioners may achieve more frequent and sustainable awakening experiences. This integrative approach honors personal readiness, alignment of intention, preparation, and integration—all of which are critical to safe and meaningful exploration.

Lyn holds an honors degree in mathematics and studied philosophy at California Polytechnic State University and Sacramento State University. He spent 25 years as a research scientist in public policy. Since 2001, Lyn has served as a therapist, coach, and guide supporting healing, spiritual growth, and awakening, grounded in a lifelong practice of meditation and yoga.