The Phenomenology of Transcendent Spiritual Experiences: A Mixed Methods Comparison of Psychedelic and Religious Experiences

Using mixed methods, self-reported psychedelic experiences were found to be positive, mystical, and ineffable, accompanied by ego dissolution and a sense of transcendence. Non-psychedelic experiences were elicited most commonly during religious activities or in nature. Although similar to psychedelic experiences in ineffability and mood, they were less mystical and transcendent.