Unraveling the Self: A Psychedelic Storytelling Journey with Mareesa Stertz
What happens when psychedelics and storytelling intersect? What hidden truths emerge when we weave our personal experiences into archetypal narratives? These were the profound questions explored at District216’s recent Interactive Workshop: Psychedelic Story Catharsis led by filmmaker, storyteller, and psychedelic community builder Mareesa Stertz.
Stories shape our reality. The narratives we tell ourselves—about our past, our struggles, our growth—define how we experience the world. But what if those stories are outdated? What if psychedelics could help us rewrite them?
Mareesa guided attendees through a unique exploration of how storytelling frameworks, combined with psychedelic integration techniques, can uncover blind spots, reframe past experiences, and foster deep catharsis. By understanding the archetypal structures of stories, participants gained tools to re-author their personal journeys in a way that aligns with their truth.
A highlight of the evening was an exclusive preview of Confessions of a Psychonaut, Mareesa’s upcoming documentary, an intimate and raw exploration of her journey healing from OCD through psychedelics. The film offers a vulnerable look at how altered states of consciousness can illuminate hidden aspects of the psyche and lead to profound transformation.
As a co-steward of the Global Psychedelic Society (GPS) and a co-founder of Lucid News, Mareesa has been at the forefront of destigmatizing psychedelics, fostering education, and building community. Her work—featured on Gaia TV and Amazon—continues to spark conversations around the intersection of art, healing, and expanded consciousness.
This workshop was more than just an educational experience—it was a shared journey of vulnerability, self-discovery, and collective healing. Attendees were invited to reflect on their own life stories and how they might reshape them with newfound awareness.
Through deep conversation, guided reflection, and storytelling exercises, the evening reinforced a powerful truth: healing is not just a solitary path—it thrives in community. 🌍💫
Mareesa is currently developing a large-scale immersive art project for Burning Man 2025 and completing her documentary on psychedelics and self-discovery. You can follow her work at:
🎭 TheSphinxGate.com - Immersive Art
🎥 ConfessionsofaPsychonaut.com - Documentary Project
📽️ TheSeeingMachine.com - Film Work
🌎 GlobalPsychedelic.org - Community Building/Psychedelics
Missed this event? Stay tuned for more transformative gatherings at District216, where we explore the frontiers of consciousness, connection, and self-growth. 🚀🍄💜
