Kelly Slater promotes psychedelics as a tool for healing and performance

In recent months, Kelly Slater, who is regarded as the greatest surfer of all time with eleven World Surf League championships under his belt, has actively participated in discussions surrounding psychedelics and their potential benefits. During a conversation on the Everyday Warrior podcast, Slater shared insights into the transformative effects of psychedelics, particularly in regard to mental health and enhancing human performance. His stance reflects a broader shift in how psychedelics are perceived, moving away from their countercultural roots to being acknowledged as legitimate therapeutic tools. Research into the effects of psychedelics, such as psilocybin and MDMA, is gaining traction, especially at reputable research institutions like Johns Hopkins University. These studies indicate that psilocybin can effectively alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, particularly in patients who have not responded well to traditional treatments. Supporting this trend, Slater emphasized the importance of utilizing these substances responsibly, suggesting that, when used correctly in a medically supervised environment, psychedelics could act as beneficial aids. He remarked, "Like a medicine of all types, used properly with the right approach is beneficial," underscoring the need for appropriate guidance in their administration. Aside from therapeutic applications, Slater noted the increasing popularity of psychedelics among athletes and entrepreneurs, who are utilizing these substances to tap into higher levels of creativity, focus, and overall mental performance. For instance, NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers has openly credited his experiences with ayahuasca as positively impacting his mental resilience and clarity. This growing acceptance among high-profile individuals highlights a potential cultural shift toward considering psychedelics as valuable tools for enhancing performance, beyond just medicinal uses. Despite this interest, Slater voiced concerns regarding the potential for abuse. He pointed out that while psychedelics can be beneficial, there is a risk of misuse, saying, "Most people figure out some way to abuse anything in life." As cities like Denver, Oakland, and Portland decriminalize psychedelics, and Oregon leads the way by legalizing their therapeutic applications, calls for regulated access are increasing. However, the federal landscape remains complex and contentious when it comes to legalization. Slater's advocacy may contribute to a broader mainstream acceptance and understanding of psychedelics, but emphasizing responsible use will be key to their successful integration into wellness practices.