East Forest Releases Free Documentary 'Music for Mushrooms' to Explore Psychedelic Healing

East Forest, the musical persona of Krishna-Trevor Oswalt, has released a new documentary titled 'Music for Mushrooms,' which is available for free on YouTube. The film delves into his work at the intersection of music, ceremony, and mental health, offering viewers a glimpse into his nearly two-decade journey of facilitating transformative experiences through music and psychedelics

Born in Oregon and having spent significant time in New York City, Oswalt's journey to becoming East Forest was marked by a series of personal and professional transformations. Initially pursuing both music and acting, he found his calling in creating music specifically designed for psychedelic experiences. This shift occurred in 2008, leading to private gatherings where he performed live for small groups using mushrooms, eventually growing into larger public events

The documentary not only showcases these experiences but also addresses broader themes of modern isolation and the search for connection. East Forest emphasizes the importance of recognizing our interconnectedness, a perspective often highlighted during psychedelic experiences. He argues that while the external world may not change, shifts in personal perspective can lead to greater compassion and understanding

East Forest's work raises important questions about the commodification of psychedelics and the role of artists in this space. He acknowledges the challenges posed by capitalism's tendency to absorb and commercialize everything, including psychedelic culture. However, he maintains that music can serve as a powerful guide, accessible to all, regardless of their stance on psychedelics

The film also touches on the potential pitfalls of psychedelic experiences, such as ego inflation, and the need for community and ethical frameworks to navigate these powerful experiences. East Forest underscores the universal language of music, demonstrating its ability to reach diverse audiences and foster healing, even without the use of psychedelics