the protocol
How do I do it?
There is no one right way to start a functional protocol. At the end of the day everyone might need a slightly different schedule to fit their personal growth path and goals. Below we have compiled the most common protocols and therapeutic schedules for medicinal mushrooms, including our detailed in house protocol which is designed with the intension of creating lasting effects on our daily habits and connections.
Most popular protocols . . .
1) NP protocol
creating new connections & maintaining new habits
The intention behind our in house protocol is to begin with more intense, regimented therapeutic dosing at first, then to slowly reduce the amount of days once new patterns and connections are being established. Every person and path is unique, so if you are typically resistant to forming new habits then consider extending each phase of this protocol to allow yourself time to embody your new routines & dialogues. This cycle can be repeated as often as needed.
Our in house 12 week protocol is as follows...
M T W Th F S Su
Week 1-4:
5 days on / 2 days off
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Week 5-7:
4 days on / 3 days off
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Week 8-11:
3 on / 4 off
Week 12:
off / evaluate
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Week 13+: Intuitive protocol
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After resting and evaluating during week 12 of the protocol you can decide how to move forward more intuitively with your dosing. Many choose to remain in a cycle of 3 on / 4 off (week 8-11) and others decide they enjoy an extra boost from continuing with 5 on / 2 off cycle. If you're not sure where to go after week 13 - re starting the cycle with week 1 is also a great option!
Don't forget to start with the best protocol companion around...
12 week NP protocol Journ(ey)al
The best way for us to be clear about our protocol goals has always been to write our intentions down. Our 12 week protocol companion journal is set up as a guide to assist in your protocol journey. Designed to help you become the master of your own destiny, we recommend starting the day with it & using it to forecast your success (like reverse journaling!) This can be as general or as specific as you like! It takes time & practice to re-set your mentality, & to align with your goals - so be patient with yourself, you are so worth it! The NP protocol journal features weekly & daily pages with affirmative prompts intended to help propel you into a future of your own design!
Available as Hardcover & Digital Download
2) Fadiman protocol
AKA - Beginners protocol by Dr. James Fadiman
Dr. Fadiman was the first to publicize a micro dose protocol & the importance of distinguishing between on/off days. He recommends an 8 week protocol consisting of 3 day cycles: 1 on day, 1 afterglow day, 1 off day, repeat. after 8 weeks Dr. Fadiman recommends taking 2-4 weeks off before beginning another protocol.
Fadiman protocol is as follows...
M T W Th F S Su
Week 1-8:
1 days on / 1 afterglow / 1 off
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Week 9-12:
off / evaluate
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3) Stamets protocol
The Stamets Stack blends your dose with neuro regenerative Lions Mane & Niacin
Paul Stammets might be the most well known mushroom enthusiast around. Starting out as an amateur mycologist & now recognizable as one of the most knowledgeable people on the subject. His microdosing protocol was the first to use the synergy of blending medicinal mushrooms for their highest purposes. For the Stamets protocol your first 4 weeks are dosed 4 days on, followed by 3 days off. During weeks 5 & 6 he recommends continuing with Lions Mane only to re set, then re start the cycle at week 1 again.
Stamets protocol is as follows...
M T W Th F S Su
Week 1-4:
4 days on / 3 days off
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Week 5-6:
Lions Mane / evaluate
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4) Microdose Pro protocol
Simple & Easy to follow
The Microdose Pro Protocol is similar to the Fadiman Protocol, the only difference is the days of the week are pre-defined. instead of cycling through the weeks, every week dosing falls on different days - this protocol pre establishes your 2 dosing days per week offering a more stable and possible less confusing schedule. Most people opt for Monday/Thursday dosing but the days can be personalized based on your regular schedule and needs.
Microdose Pro protocol is as follows...
M T W Th F S Su
Weekly Cycle:
4 days on / 3 days off
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5) Intuitive protocol
Feeling connected and empowered in your healing journey
An intuitive protocol allows your body and mind to decide when and where you need a cycle and what that cycle might look like. After experiencing many different protocols and cycles most people will graduate to this more intuitive way of maintaining mindset. This means you may go weeks, even months without thinking about a dose. One day you may decide it's time for a reminder, or perhaps you need an extra creative boost. Remember, there is not one right way to experience this medicine. The intuitive approach relies on our connection to our bodies and minds to know when it's needed.