The exploration of our psyche and the inner worlds of holotropic states has always accompanied, fascinated, and driven humanity. For millennia, our ancestors from all continents have used psychedelic plants and preparations to connect with the true essence of existence. The experience of psychedelic states of consciousness as an integral part of life holds the potential to transcend our interpretation of the world, our own selves, and collective consciousness. The resulting life path is referred to as psychonautics and is a practice of self- and world-knowledge that necessitates a serious engagement with the spiritual dimensions of existence. This Smart Book by Stanislav Grof is a preliminary excerpt from the standard work "The Way of the Psychonaut: Encyclopedia for Inner Journey," set to be published in 2018.