Why Peak Experiences Aren’t Enough
How I learned to walk a new path once the snow had settled.
A wedding of dear friends where the energy is overflowing with joy and connection, a near-death experience on a high mountain mission, or simply an insightful book that spoke to my soul. All transported me to an elevated state of consciousness, stretching the boundaries of what I thought was possible.
These moments don't last forever, and eventually I am bound to return to Earth. After the tantra immersion, the shift hit harder than I expected.
I tried to settle into my usual routine, but there was doubt. Work felt like an incredible effort. I doubted my decision to have a home base. The trip to Pakistan I was excited about no longer felt right. I was craving different food. It was as if the old version of me did not fit the present, but the new one hadn't arrived yet.
This is the time when transformation takes place. I have a chance to redefine how I live, and incorporate the learnings into my day-to-day life. In scientific terms, this is when neuroplasticity takes place.
Think of a snowy mountain. Every time you walk a trail, the snow gets packed down. When new snow comes, old paths get covered. You are free to wander in new directions, packing down entirely new paths. New experiences offer a chance to reshape how you think and behave.
Peak experiences are incredible, and for a long time I was chasing them relentlessly. They are a great way to escape the present moment. If I could go to that country, I would feel happy. If only I could do one more meditation retreat, all my problems would vanish. I made this mistake before.
Pursuing highs without integration is a trap, and I was getting addicted to the process. I was grasping at moments. I had a hard time letting the experience go and appreciating it for what it was. I wanted it to last forever! And in the process, I was ready to give up other parts of my life that I loved.
Recently, something shifted, and I noticed the change after the tantra immersion I mentioned above. It was one of the most beautiful and emotional three days of my life, yet I was ready to move on.
Coming back to the valley in Switzerland felt like returning home. I was so excited to be back near the mountains, to get serious about writing, live with more openness, and spend time with loved ones.
How does integration look for me?
Reflection on the peak experience. Journaling, meditation, and talking to loved ones help me reflect. How did I feel during the high? Were there any challenges I faced? What are some new perspectives? How will the new information I received shape my life?
I find it helpful talking to people who went through similar events. Certain things can only be understood if experienced.
What can I apply to my daily life? To change many things at once feels overwhelming. If I can take away only one thing, that's already a success.
I had an addiction to 9gag a few years ago, but after the trip to Kyrgyzstan, I never opened it again. I started to assume that everyone has good intentions after my ayahuasca experience. I recognised the importance of holistic health after the outdoor education course in New Zealand.
Beyond the joy, peak experiences give me information. I get temporary access to my subconscious, and observe the stories I am telling myself. Stories about my identity, limiting beliefs, and things I am holding onto.
Awareness in itself does not change me, but opens a door. Integration is the space where the real work happens, where awareness slowly turns into embodiment.
I’ve started being careful with how many doors I open. Going from peak to peak can become a trap, and the fastest way to overload and confuse my nervous system.
I try to leave time to take care of myself and the emotions that surface after an experience. Just like my body needs rest after intense training, my mind also needs grounding after being stretched by the highs.
Closing thoughts
Not every experience has to be as intense as ayahuasca or near-death to change us. Sometimes it's a conversation, a short meditation, or a walk in the forest. What matters isn't intensity, but presence. Presence is the doorway into altered states, and it's always available, without needing to travel to the other side of the world.
The highs shows me what is possible. Integration is choosing how I walk the trail once the snow has settled. And for now, life itself is enough.
What about you? Is there something in your life asking to be integrated?