Louis Belleau, M.A.
My work examines how psychedelic-producing organisms participate in human cognition within broader ecological systems.Drawing on systems theory, biosemiotics, enactive and ecological approaches to mind, ecological medicine, and contemplative traditions, I am developing the concept of ecological cognition—a framework that understands cognition not as a purely neurocentric process, but as a relational phenomenon emerging through organism–environment interaction. From this perspective, psychedelics can be understood as mediators: biologically evolved substances that reliably modulate cognition.I completed a triple major in Psychology, Philosophy, and Religious Studies at McGill University, followed by an MA in Psychedelics and Consciousness Studies at the University of Ottawa, where I developed the Psygaia framework. I intend to continue this research at the doctoral level. I am the founding researcher and director of Psygaia, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing ecological and systems-based approaches to psychedelics through research, education, and applied frameworks. Psygaia explores how psychedelic experience—long present across cultures and historical contexts—can be engaged with greater ethical responsibility and ecological coherence, moving beyond narrowly biomedical or individualistic models.Alongside my academic work, I am a teacher of yoga and contemplative practice. My training includes extended study in Zen Buddhism at Enpuku-ji in Montreal, Vipassana meditation through silent retreat practice, Ashtanga yoga understood as a complete path rather than a purely physical discipline, and conscious connected breathwork. I teach meditation, breathwork, and yoga in private practice and rehabilitation settings, and I lead retreats and experiential programs focused on holistic health, contemplative inquiry, psychedelic experience and integration, and ecological grounding.The question that has guided my work from the beginning is simple but unresolved: why do molecules produced by living organisms reliably occasion experiences of insight—particularly forms of experience that have played a foundational role in humanity’s religious, ethical, and contemplative traditions?My work is an ongoing inquiry into this question, pursued through research, practice, and the careful integration of multiple ways of knowing.
About 1:1 Coaching & MentorshipIn limited cases, I offer individual support for meditation practice, integration of psychedelic experiences, and periods of psychological or spiritual transition. This work is integrative, relational, and grounded in ethical responsibility rather than quick transformation.Support areas may include:- Meditation and awareness-based practices
- Integration of psychedelic and non-ordinary experiences
- Ecopsychology and nature-based rites of passage
- Spiritual emergence and contemplative inquiryThis work is offered in the spirit of dāna (generosity), through voluntary contributions offered within one’s means. Availability is limited, and priority is given to those engaged in sustained practice or experiencing acute spiritual crisis or emergency.A brief discovery call is available via the link above.Thank you for being here.