In a recent appearance on ESPN’s The Pat McAfee Show, New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers openly discussed his use of psychedelic drugs, specifically mentioning their positive impact on his well-being.
Rodgers credited these substances for helping him navigate challenges and expressed his intention to include psychedelic experiences in his offseason routine.
Aaron also got candid about his commitment to living authentically and encouraged others to explore their own paths for personal growth. However, he acknowledged that it might not be suitable for everyone.
Here’s how the conversation rolled between Pat McAfee and Aaron Rodgers:
Pat McAfee: Aaron, you went into a dark hole for a while to find your true happiness. You went into the jungle to do something that makes it go out the attic and the basement, right?
Rodgers: I think, you know, I’m trying to live as authentic and genuine as possible, and I think there are people that have been inspired. Some people who follow through and have done their own journey, some people who just are not ready for it yet, which is great. But, um, I definitely encourage people to look into it. I don’t think it’s smart to maybe recommend it because, you know, people always want to blame other people for certain things, but I can speak from my own experience. It was life-changing, has been life-changing, and it’s going to be something that I look forward to doing in some form of fashion this offseason as well. I can say that.
Plus, Rodgers hinted at a forthcoming ceremony or event related to his personal growth journey in the offseason.
“I mean, I’m sure there’ll be some sort of, you know, ceremony this offseason. Not sure what medicine, but there’ll be something. Hell yes,” Rodgers continued.
The conversation then delved into the potential benefits of psychedelic substances and the importance of respecting their use as a form of medicine.
To which, Rodgers acknowledged that different medicines have different experiences associated with them and should be approached with the appropriate reverence.
In August 3, 2022, when Rodgers appeared on “The Aubrey Marcus Podcast,” revealing that he attributes two of his best career years to taking ayahuasca in Peru.
He emphasized that the positive impact on his career was not coincidental.
The Jets QB explained:
“I don’t think it’s a coincidence. I really don’t. I don’t really believe in coincidences at this point. It’s the universe bringing things to happen when they’re supposed to happen. There’s signs and synchronicities all around us at all times if we’re awake enough to see them and to take them in and to listen to our intuition when it’s speaking to us or pounding us in the head saying, “Hey, dummy, wake up, this is what you’re supposed to be doing.”
Note: Ayahuasca is a psychoactive brew with a long history of use by indigenous communities in the Amazon basin. Made by combining the leaves of the Psychotria Viridis plant and the Banisteriopsis caapi vine, it contains DMT and beta-carboline alkaloids. Traditionally associated with shamanic practices, ayahuasca induces intense altered states of consciousness. In recent years, it has gained popularity in Western cultures for its perceived therapeutic benefits, such as psychological healing and spiritual insight. However, caution is advised due to the potential risks associated with its potent psychoactive effects, and individuals should be mindful of legal considerations and consult with healthcare professionals before use.
In early 2023, Rodgers underwent a “darkness retreat” at Sky Cave Retreats in southern Oregon. He spent four days in total isolation and darkness.
Subsequently, in July 2023, Aaron Rodgers signed a two-year, $75 million contract with the New York Jets.
Unfortunately, he had to sit out the entire 2023 season after sustaining a torn Achilles tendon during his debut game against the Buffalo Bills in September 2023.
Aaron Rodgers enjoyed a 19-season career, predominantly with the Green Bay Packers from 2005 to 2022 and subsequently with the New York Jets from 2023 onwards.
Drafted by the Packers in 2005, Rodgers achieved notable milestones in his career, including 10 Pro Bowl appearances (including 2021), four First-Team All-Pro selections (including 2021) and one Second-Team All-Pro recognition.
His win-loss record stands at 151-79-1, and he has received numerous accolades, including four MVP awards, one Super Bowl MVP, and one championship.
Over his career, Rodgers amassed 59,055 yards and threw 475 touchdowns.
